Barracuda

Barracuda

Sphyraena argentea
Barracuda

Average Weight/Length

Max length : 145 cm FL male/unsexed; max. published weight: 12.0 kg; max. reported age: 12 years

Family, Genus, Class & Etymology

Family    Sphyraenidae
Description    Barracudas
Environment    Marine
Etymology    Greek, sphyraina = a fish similar to an iron pin, a pike like fish
Genus    1
No. of Species    27
Order    Perciformes
Class    Actinopterygii
Reproductive Guild    Nonguarders
Distribution    Tropical and subtropical. Distribution: Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Elongated body. Large-mouthed with the lower jaw projecting forward bearing strong fanglike teeth. Upper jaw non-protractile, an adaptation to feeding on large prey. Well-developed lateral line. Gill rakers vestigial. Position of pectoral fins relatively low. Dorsal fins far apart. First dorsal fin with 5 spines; second dorsal with 1 spine and 9 soft rays. Vertebrae 24 (11+13). Usually to 1.8 m maximum length; could grow longer. Voracious predators of other fishes. Attacks on humans have been reported. Pelagic spawning in schools. Food and game fishes, but large specimens may be ciguatoxic.

Other "Popular" Names for this Fish

Pacific Barracuda, California Barracuda, Silver Barracuda, Kaku, Kupala

Location Habitat

Usually near shore or near the surface. Often in small schools. Young enter bays. Feed mainly on other fishes. Pelagic spawners. Migrate south from the California coast during autumn, but may remain in front of the Mexican coast throughout the year. Utilized fresh, dried or salted and frozen; eaten broiled and baked. Considered as potentially dangerous due to its large, sharp teeth and aggressive disposition, though there are no reports of attacks

Biology & Physical Description

Dorsal spines (total): 6; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-10; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 8 - 9. Color bluish or brownish dorsally, silvery ventrally

Life Cycle & Mating Behavior

Pelagic spawner

Geographic Species Map (Fishbase.org Map)

Summary of Distribution: Eastern Pacific: Alaska to Magdalena Bay, Baja California. Not common north of Point Conception

Note: Distribution range colors indicate degree of suitability of habitat which can be interpreted as probabilities of occurrence (fishbase.org)

Sport Fishing Techniques

Trolling

A trolling boat has multiple outriggers, poles and lines attached that use lures dragged across the ocean surface at speeds of 4 – 10 knots. Large beefy hooks are used with special durable lures allowing the fisherman to easily unhook the gamefish that has been caught and quickly get their lines back into the water. The larger the lures, the larger the potential fish, the larger the hooks. A tuna boat will usually make slow wide circles when trolling. A billfish boat will usually work ledges, fathom lines, zig zag area coordinates or make trolling circles if bait or a porpoise school is located and/or if they are fishing a FAD..

Drifting

Drift fishing allows you to fish over a variety of habitats as your boat drifts with the currents or wind movement. You can drift fish on the bottom or change the depth with a bobber or float. Natural baits work best. But jigs, lures and artificial flies will produce good results, too. You can drift fish on the ocean, as well as ponds, lakes, rivers and streams any time of the day and year..

Game Rating

Game Rating : 8/10

Game Description :

A spirited and strong fish

Food Rating

Game Rating : 7/10

Game Description :

Pacific Barracuda has a meaty firm texture with large flakes, full flavor, low fat content, and rich in natural oils which makes it great for grilling. The flesh, when raw, is a light tannish color and when it’s cooked it becomes an off-white color. Many say that the meat is a cross between Mahimahi and Sea Bass. This species of fish spoils quickly so you’ll need to keep it well chilled right up to the time of cooking. You should eat your Barracuda within 2 days of purchase. This is a full flavored fish, so it is commonly served and goes well with an equally strong flavored - potent marinade or sauce. Barracuda is a very popular Mediterranean dish where it is stewed.

Picture (Fish)