Swordfish Fishing Charters

The broadbill is built differently from a marlin: a long, flat sword instead of a round bill, no scales as an adult, no pelvic fins, and huge eyes for hunting in the dark. Swordfish range through warm and temperate oceans worldwide and use the sword to slash at squid and fish. A hooked one fights deep and long, and often dives again just as it nears the surface. The meat is firm, mild and very good.

Daytime swordfish off South Florida

South Florida's east coast is one of the places where anglers learned to catch swordfish in daylight, dropping baits close to the bottom in very deep water and watching the rod tip for the faint knock of a bite far below. It takes heavy weights, long drops and patience. Tuna Wahoo Fishing Charters in West Palm Beach counts swordfish in the range of fish you can tackle with Captain Rich Adler, on a fast 31 foot Rampage. Trips are private for up to 5 and leave at 7:30. For a swordfish attempt the 8 hour trip is the one to ask about, because a deep drop eats time; ask Captain Rich whether he will give part of the day to it and what else you can fish for while the bait is down.

In Mauritius, Big Game Fishing from Rivière Noire lists swordfish, and they do live in the waters around the island. This boat is set up for something else, though: jigging and popping for large tuna and fishing for marlin and sailfish on 4 hour trips from 9:00, for up to 4, with two skippers on board to help or teach the method. Book it as a tuna and marlin trip; a swordfish there would be a rare surprise.