Shortbill Spearfish

Oceans & Range: Pacific and Indian Oceans — the Indo-Pacific counterpart to the Atlantic Longbill Spearfish. Most commonly encountered in Hawaiian waters and throughout the Central Pacific. Also found across the Indian Ocean to East Africa. Caught incidentally by offshore anglers targeting Pacific Blue Marlin and Striped Marlin.

Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–82°F. A pelagic blue water species associated with offshore current edges and temperature breaks in the open Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Size & Weight: Typically 20–40 lbs. World record: 74 lbs 12 oz from Kona, Hawaii. Hawaii is the most productive US sport fishery for this species. Often released after capture as they are not as prized as Blue Marlin or Striped Marlin.

Best Lures: Small to medium skirted trolling lures produce strikes. Rigged ballyhoo and small whole mackerel at trolling speed work effectively. Small jet heads and feather jigs troll well at 7–9 knots.

Best Baits: Small rigged whole squid are excellent. Small whole mackerel produce consistent strikes. Live small baitfish catch fish when schools are located. Most commonly caught as incidental bycatch on trolled lure spreads targeting other billfish.