Sailfish
The Sailfish, (Istiophorus platypterus) is a blue water fish and is
named for it's large dorsal fin which extends most of the length of it's body. It's sail
is dark blue with black spots in rows between the spines. The sail can be folded down into
a depression on it's back where it can't be seen. It's back is bluish black fading to
silver on it's side and belly. Sails have an elongated spearlike upper jaw, torpedo shaped
body and large forked tail. Adult Sailfish reach weights close to 95 pounds and lengths of
about 8 feet.
Sailfish are swift and powerful fish that show up in Texas waters in
early May and are usually gone by November. The Sailfish is a highly prized gamefish,
known for it's lightning fast runs and spectacular jumps. Sailfish will hit almost any
type of trolled baits and lures.