Species Spotlight
Atlantic Sailfish
For most anglers, the Atlantic sailfish is the first billfish they ever touch, and the one they never forget. It arrives off the Florida Keys when the water cools, fights far above its weight, and swims away to be caught again another season.
About the Atlantic Sailfish
Built for Blistering Speed
The Atlantic sailfish (Istiophorus albicans) is a billfish found in the warm offshore waters of the Atlantic, and off Marathon it is the crown jewel of light-tackle fishing. Prized for its blistering speed and spectacular jumps, it is a bucket-list catch for anglers of every level.
The sailfish takes its name from the enormous first dorsal fin that stands taller than the body is deep. When the fish is excited or hunting, it raises this sail and lights up in electric blues and purples to herd bait and signal other fish.
Sailfish are built for speed. A long, streamlined body and a spear-like bill let them slash through schools of bait at incredible pace, and when hooked they put on an aerial show of screaming runs, jumps, and tail-walks unlike anything else in the sea.
Fast Facts
Things Worth Knowing About Sailfish
Built for Speed
Many say Sailfish are the fastest fish in the ocean, there are reports of clocked in bursts up to 68 miles per hour when they run down bait or a hooked line!
That Unmistakable Sail
The huge dorsal fin gives the sailfish its name. It flares the sail to corral bait and to look larger when threatened, then folds it flat to swim fast.
They Hunt in Packs
Sailfish often work together, using their sails and bills to herd baitfish into tight balls before slashing through to feed.
Close to Shore
In the Keys, sailfish are found just five to six miles out along the reef edge, so the run to the fishing grounds is short.
Follow the Birds
Frigate birds circling over bait are a classic sailfish sign. Where the birds work, sails are often feeding on the surface just below.
A Seasonal Traveler
Sailfish migrate with the seasons, moving to warmer water in winter, which is exactly when the Florida Keys bite fires up.
Florida Keys Season
Best Time to Catch Sailfish in the Keys
Sailfish fishing in the Keys peaks in the cooler months. From December through April, cold fronts push bait and sails down the reef line, and the days right after a front often produce the fastest action of the whole year.
On the Water
How We Catch Sailfish
Our proven method is kite fishing, which suspends live baits right on the surface where sails can find them. It is a natural presentation that draws violent, highly visible strikes.
When we spot fish moving on the surface, we switch to the run-and-gun method, racing ahead and pitching live baits directly into their path. On the best days this fast-paced style can produce double-digit releases.
When conditions are right, we can chase sailfish on our offshore charters out of Marathon—often just five to six miles from the dock. That means less time running and more time fishing.
View Offshore Charters →Conservation
A True Catch-and-Release Prize
Sailfish are prized billfish, not table fare. In the Florida Keys they are almost always released to keep the fishery strong, and a healthy release is the real reward. Here is how we make sure every fish swims away in good shape.
Boatside
We keep every sailfish in the water alongside the boat, remove the hook quickly, and get your photo without harming the fish.
Tackle
We fish circle hooks and balanced tackle so fish are hooked cleanly in the jaw and landed fast, ready for a strong release.
Release
Before letting go, we ease the fish forward to move water over its gills until it kicks off and swims down strong on its own.
Every Release Counts
Fly the Release Flag
A released sailfish is the real trophy. Many crews fly a release flag for each fish raised, and Sundance can help you pursue an official release citation for your Florida Keys catch, a keepsake that lasts far longer than a fillet.
Book a Trip
Catch a Sailfish Offshore
Sailfish are the marquee target on our offshore charters out of Marathon. Fast, acrobatic, and unforgettable, they are a true bucket-list catch. Gear, premium live bait, and expert guidance are included on every trip.
