0 All About the “Tiger of the Sea” & Tips on Catching Them
- Deep-Sea Fishing
- by Emily Stanfill
- 09-22-2024
Physical Characteristics-
Appearance:
Wahoo have an elongated body with an iridescent blue back and silvery sides, adorned with irregular vertical blue bars.
Size:
They can grow up to 2.5 meters (8 feet 2 inches) in length & weigh up to 83 kilograms (183 pounds).
Teeth:
Wahoo have razor-sharp teeth, which are crucial for their predatory lifestyle.
Habitat & Distribution-
Range:
Wahoo are found worldwide in tropical & subtropical seas, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
Behavior:
They tend to be solitary or occur in loose-knit groups of two or three, but can sometimes be found in schools of up to 100 or more.
Diet & Feeding-
Wahoo primarily feed on other fish & squid.
Fishing for Wahoo-
Wahoo fishing is an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of high-speed chases with the satisfaction of landing one of the ocean’s most formidable predators. Wahoo, often referred to as the “tiger of the sea,” are known for their incredible speed, razor-sharp teeth, and aggressive strikes. Wahoo offer an exhilarating challenge and are a prized catch for anglers around the world.
Here’s everything you need to know to get started on your wahoo fishing adventure!
Introduction-
Wahoo are renowned for their speed, capable of swimming up to 60 mph. This makes them one of the fastest fish in the ocean, and their powerful runs can strip hundreds of yards of line off your reel in seconds. They are also excellent table fare, with delicate, smoky flavor that is often compared to mackerel. Fun Fact- In Hawaii, wahoo is known as “ono,” which means “delicious” in Hawaiian.
Fishing Techniques for Catching Wahoo-
There are several effective fishing techniques that can be used to catch wahoo.
High-Speed Trolling
Slow Trolling/ Bump Trolling
Planer Trolling
Vertical Jigging
Kite Fishing
Chunking
Gear and Equipment-
When it comes to gear, you’ll need a sturdy rod and reel capable of handling high speeds and heavy lines. Roller guides are recommended to manage the tension during high-speed trolling. Various lures are used at different distances to cover more water & increase your chances of a bite.
Timing/ When to Catch Wahoo-
Early morning and late afternoon are often the best times to target wahoo.
Location/ Where to Catch Wahoo-
Focus on areas with structure, such as reefs, drop-offs, and floating debris, where wahoo are likely to hunt.
Final Thoughts-
Wahoo are fascinating creatures, both for their impressive physical attributes and their significance in sport fishing. Wahoo fishing is not just about the catch; it’s about the chase. The adrenaline rush of hearing your reel scream as a wahoo takes off is unmatched. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the techniques and tips outlined here will help you make the most of your wahoo fishing adventure. So gear up, hit the waters, and experience the thrill of wahoo fishing for yourself!
Happy fishing!