Saltwater Fish of Connecticut
Swordfish
Xiphias gladius
🏆 Connecticut State Record
Harvest359 lbFred J. Malcarne · 2004 · Fish Tales Canyon
Catch & Release—
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Also called: Broadbill
Identification
Large billfish with a long, flat sword-like bill, no scales as an adult and a tall, rigid dorsal fin.
Habitat
Deep offshore water in the canyons.
Behavior
Dives deep by day and rises toward the surface at night to feed on squid.
How to Catch
Night drifting or daytime deep-drop fishing in the canyons. An HMS permit is required.
Notes
Rare visitor to Connecticut — listed in CT DEEP’s exotic marine species record category.