

| The Atlantic sailfish is quite possibly North America’s most recognizable saltwater gamefish. An offshore species that tends to hug the coastline, the spindlebeak continues to inspire comment from the lofty to the low. Here in Florida, anglers target sails using three basic methods. Each takes advantage of everything from bottom topography to the latest technology. Sailfish differ from other pelagics in several distinct ways. In addition to waging a spirited, aerial battle, they strike baits in a unique way. The annals of sportfishing are literally stuffed to the gills with accounts of sailfish slashing baits with their bills. While some authorities claim these fish are attempting to stun or kill their victims prior to injesting them, I believe they’re simply lifting their bills in preparation for an all-out attack. Either way, we know they feed voraciously during their four- year life span and are plentiful enough to be of interest to most Florida anglers. |