How to Identify a Saltwater Sailfish

The Sailfish is an easily-identified deep sea fish with its trademark coloring, fins and nose. Found in tropical waters, this fish can get to be quite large and be quite the memorable catch. Use these steps to learn to identify Sailfish.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Notice the dark blue coloring of the Sailfish. They are very similar to the Marlin with the same vertical stripes on the back and spots along the color line.

2. Look at the Sailfish and you will immediately see the vast size of the back fin. It is also the same dark blue color as the back.

3. Note the long, spear-like nose and "beard" that comes from the upper belly. The belly is a grayish color that fades to white on the lower belly.

4. Catch Sailfish in tropical waters and use a charter boat. Charter more than one day to account for weather and water temperature changes. Sailfish can be found in Hawaii, Portugal, Panama and Costa Rica.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry a deep sea fishing regulations guide with to make sure that you are following all of the laws.
• Always wear a life jacket anytime you are on or around the water.
• Always have an experienced boater and deep sea fisherman on board.
• Never let your fishing license expire. Make sure you have one for the appropriate type of fish you are trying to catch and the state or country you will be fishing in.

Resources

• Fish Identification Cards
• Fish Identification Posters
• Land Big Fish Site

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