Houndfish
Tylosurus crocodilus
Houndfish (Tylosurus crocodilus) is a slender needlefish of tropical and subtropical seas, often seen near the surface in coastal waters. It is a fast, toothy predator and an occasional light-tackle catch rather than a major target species.
Identification points
- Extremely elongated, torpedo-shaped body with a very long, narrow beak
- Large anal and dorsal fins set far back on the body
- Distinct dark lateral stripe with a greenish to blue-green back and silvery sides
Habitat
Warm coastal marine waters, especially reefs, lagoons, channels, estuaries, and nearshore surface waters; commonly associated with floating debris, docks, and lights at night.
Bait notes
Small live baitfish, strips of sardine or mullet, and shiny minnow-style lures or topwater stickbaits can work. It also strikes small trolling lures and flies that imitate slender baitfish.
Behavior
A surface-oriented ambush predator that feeds on small fish and squids. It often cruises in open water or near structure and can leap and thrash violently when hooked.
Caution
Very sharp beak-like jaws and needle-like teeth can inflict cuts; use pliers and avoid hand-gripping the head. As a pelagic marine species, local food-safety advisories for mercury or ciguatera should be checked before eating.
Fishing notes
Fish near the surface along drop-offs, tide lines, lights, and current seams. Use long fluorocarbon or wire leaders if bite-offs are a concern, and handle carefully because the fish is very long and rigid.