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Sailfish

Istiophorus platypterus
Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 11 feet (220 pounds)
Similar species
White marlin, K. albida; and juvenile blue marlin, M. nigricans (both lack the large sail-like dorsal fin of sailfish) Size: Up to 11 feet (220 pounds)
Appearance
  • Dark blue back, brownish-blue sides, fading to a silvery-white belly
  • First dorsal fin is greatly enlarged and sail-like, has black spots, squared off in front and is highest in the middle
  • Pelvic fins are extremely long and narrow
  • Upper jaw elongated into a spear shape
  • Scales imbedded with blunt ends
  • Lateral line curves over the pectoral fin
Habitat
Offshore waters
Behavior
Sailfish are a rapidly growing species; they reach 4-5 feet in one year. They feed aggressively on small fish and squid. Off southeast Florida, sailfish move inshore to shallow water and spawn near the surface in summer. Females swim slowly with their dorsal fins above water, accompanied by one or more males when spawning.
Additional information
State Record:Recreational RegulationsSee a full list of our Social Media accountsSubscribe:AboutThe CommissionCommission MeetingsWildlife AlertCalendar of EventsOutlook E-mailLimited English Proficiency PlanOffice of Supplier DevelopmentAmericans with DisabilitiesEEO/AAPrivacy StatementSitemap2025 Agency Regulatory Plan
Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles