The Bahamas Barracuda

Known as one of the most ferocious fish in the sea, catching a Barracuda during your Bahamas fishing trip can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of your entire vacation. Whether this is your first time attempting to reel in this ferocious sea beast, or you’re a high-achiever aiming to improve your skill with this intelligent, evasive species, our Nassau fishing charters are the perfect way to allow you the opportunity to pursue this dangerously alluring creature.

Description
This particular fish species is shaped long and lean. Its dorsal and anal fins are uniquely set apart and, as far as fish are concerned, it has a sharply keen eyesight – especially for shiny objects. This is an intelligent breed with a knack for evading the lure, so specialized technique may be necessary to reign victorious over this cunning creature. This particular fish can grow up to 6 feet 6 inches in length and weigh well over 100 pounds. As you will soon learn, it is known for putting up a fight when caught and does not give in easily. This fish belongs to the family known as Sphyraenidae, which includes other varieties like the Northern and Southern Sennet and the yellow-striped Guaguanche.

Habitat
This fish breed is known to inhabit both the Atlantic and Pacific, as well as several seas across the globe. As a traveler to the Bahamas, you will mostly likely find packs of smaller-bodied fish closer to the shore, which are relatively easily captured using a light bait from a boat or shoreline. The larger variety, which requires trolling with a medium tackle, can be found in deeper water. The ultimate catch – the Great Barracuda – is found exclusively in tropical waters including the Mediterranean, Black Sea and warmer areas of the Atlantic.

Feeding
This fish does not have an atypical feeding pattern and generally preys upon smaller fish species traveling in packs. What is unique about this fish is that it tends to target prey with a silver or shiny hue. Once caught, any prey of this fish stands little chance of escape. Its jaw contains razor-sharp canine-type teeth in the front to secure food and a second set of smaller teeth designed to pulverize its victim.

Fishing in the Bahamas
One of the best ways to catch this squirrely fish and avoid escape is to schedule one of the Nassau fishing charters available daily for guests and residents of the Bahamas. This breed is best caught using spinning or trolling methods along with bait including bright, shiny spinners or whole small fish like sardines.

Trolling for this fish usually requires a 12-30 pound class rod. You will also need a 4/0 or 8/0 hook and 12-30 pound nylon line. For the fisherman who prefers spinning, a medium spinning rode should do the trick when coupled with 12 to 30 pound class rod and wire leader. We recommend a 4/0 or 8/0 hook size for spinning as well.