Swordfish

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Swordfish, highly prized for their size, strength, and flavor, can be found in offshore waters along the Gulf of Mexico in the South/Gulf region. They inhabit deep waters and are known for their long migrations.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Swordfish are pelagic fish that inhabit deep waters, often found in areas with a thermocline or temperature break. They are known to prefer water temperatures between 68°F and 80°F (20°C and 27°C). Swordfish can be found near underwater structures, such as seamounts, canyons, and ridges, as well as areas with significant currents and baitfish concentrations.

PATTERNS

Swordfish are typically targeted during nighttime hours when they rise to shallower depths to feed.

Squid:

Squid is one of the most common and effective baits for swordfish, as it is readily available and closely resembles the natural prey of swordfish in the open ocean.

Mackerel:

Mackerel is another popular bait for swordfish, as it is a small, oily fish that can be easily preserved for long periods of time.

Sardines:

Sardines are a small, oily baitfish that can also be effective for catching swordfish. They are often used in combination with other baits, such as squid or mackerel, to create a scent trail that attracts swordfish to the baited hook.

Herring:

Herring is another oily baitfish that can be effective for catching swordfish, especially when fishing in colder waters.

Daytime Swordfishing

How: Swordfish inhabit deep offshore waters during the day. Use specialized techniques like deep drop fishing to target them. Set up your gear with electric reels and heavy-duty equipment to handle the depths. Deploy baits with weighted rigs to reach the desired depths where Swordfish are known to roam.
Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty stand-up rods or bent butt rods. Reels: Electric reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test braided line with a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. Hooks: Large circle hooks (14/0 - 20/0) attached to deep drop rigs. Weights: Deep drop weights ranging from 2-5 pounds.

Nighttime Swordfishing

How: Swordfish rise closer to the surface to feed at night, making them accessible to anglers. Use a technique called deep dropping with specialized rigs and bait presentation. Set up your gear with electric reels and prepare for a long waiting game as Swordfish are known to be more active during the nighttime.
Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty stand-up rods or bent butt rods. Reels: Electric reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test braided line with a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. Hooks: Large circle hooks (14/0 - 20/0) attached to deep drop rigs. Weights: Deep drop weights ranging from 2-5 pounds.