Swordfish

Category: Deep Offshore

Trip Type: Deep Offshore

Swordfish are among the most prized and difficult deep-sea game fish in the Gulf, combining enormous size, raw power, and world-class table fare into one of sportfishing's ultimate bucket-list catches.

Appearance

Swordfish are instantly recognizable by their long, flat bill — shaped like a sword — which they use to slash through schools of baitfish. They have a dark purplish-brown to bronze back, lighter sides, and a white or cream-colored belly. Their large, crescent-shaped tail is built for speed and endurance. Unlike marlin and sailfish, swordfish have no scales as adults and lack pelvic fins, giving them a uniquely streamlined appearance.

Habitat

Swordfish are highly migratory deep-water fish found throughout the Gulf of Mexico. During the day they retreat to depths of 1,000 to 2,000 feet, making them one of the deepest-dwelling sport fish targeted by Louisiana captains. At night they rise to shallower water to feed. They are commonly associated with the Mississippi Canyon and other deep-water structure south of Louisiana.

Average Size

Most swordfish encountered by Gulf anglers weigh between 50 and 200 pounds, though fish exceeding 400 pounds are caught in Louisiana waters each year. The species is capable of reaching well over 1,000 pounds.

Best Time to Catch

Swordfish can be caught year-round in Louisiana's deep offshore waters, but many captains consider the winter months and nighttime trips to be especially productive as fish move shallower to feed under the cover of darkness.

Fishing Tips

Most Louisiana swordfish are targeted using deep-drop techniques with electric reels, heavy braided line, and large natural baits such as squid, mackerel, and bonito fished near the bottom in 1,000 to 2,000 feet of water. Nighttime drifting with illuminated bait rigs is one of the most productive methods. The Mississippi Canyon south of the Mississippi River Delta is one of Louisiana's most productive swordfish grounds.

Louisiana State Record

536 pounds — caught by David Cresson in 1994. Louisiana's state-record swordfish is a testament to the trophy-class deep-water fishing available in Gulf waters south of the Mississippi Delta.

Fun Fact

Swordfish have a special organ near their eyes and brain that warms these tissues, allowing them to hunt effectively in the cold deep water where they spend much of their time. This adaptation makes them one of the most efficient deep-sea predators in the ocean.