Sailfish vs. Swordfish: Differences in Puerto Rico

Written by: Captain Alberto Jimenez

When it comes to big game fishing in Puerto Rico, few experiences can match the thrill of battling a billfish. Puerto Rico's waters offer anglers the exciting opportunity to target both sailfish and swordfish, two of the ocean's most majestic predators. While these billfish share some similarities, they differ significantly in habitat, behavior, and fishing techniques. As a seasoned captain who's spent countless hours on these waters, let me break down the key differences between these two prized catches in Puerto Rico's tropical paradise.

Habitat and Seasons

If you're planning a fishing trip to Puerto Rico, knowing where and when to find these billfish is crucial. Let's dive into the preferred habitats and peak seasons for both sailfish and swordfish in our local waters:

Sailfish in Puerto Rico

  • Prefer warm, surface waters near coastal areas

  • Often found just offshore, within sight of land

  • Peak season: November to April

  • Common areas: Off the west coast near Mayaguez, Cabo Rojo, and Aguadilla

Swordfish in Puerto Rico

  • Inhabit deeper, offshore waters

  • Often found in depths exceeding 1,000 feet

  • Can be targeted year-round, with peak season November to April

  • Best areas: Deep waters off the north coast near San Juan

Physical Characteristics

One of the most fascinating aspects of these billfish is their unique appearance. Let's take a closer look at what sets sailfish and swordfish apart visually:

Sailfish

  • Distinctive sail-like dorsal fin

  • Average weight: 120-230 pounds

  • Length: 6-11 feet

  • Known for their vibrant blue coloration

Swordfish

  • Flat, sword-like bill

  • Can grow up to 1,000 pounds

  • Lack the prominent dorsal "sail"

  • Generally larger and more robust than sailfish

Fishing Techniques in Puerto Rico

As any experienced angler knows, different fish require different tactics. Here's how we approach sailfish and swordfish fishing in Puerto Rico's diverse waters:

Sailfish Tactics

  • Light tackle (30-pound class)

  • Trolling with skirted ballyhoo

  • Live baiting with small bonito or flying fish

  • Kite fishing in windy conditions

  • Best time: Dawn and dusk

Swordfish Tactics

  • Heavy tackle with electric reels

  • Deep dropping with squid or mackerel baits

  • Night fishing with luminescent lures

  • Daytime "sword dropping" in waters over 1,000 feet deep

Behavior and Feeding

Understanding how these billfish behave and feed can give you a significant advantage on the water. Here's what you need to know about sailfish and swordfish habits in Puerto Rico:

Sailfish

  • Often hunt in schools, creating bait balls

  • Known for their acrobatic jumps and surface activity

  • Feed primarily on small baitfish like ballyhoo and flying fish

Swordfish

  • Solitary hunters

  • Use their bill to stun prey

  • Feed on squid, mackerel, and other deep-water prey

Conservation and Regulations

As responsible anglers, it's our duty to protect these magnificent species for future generations. Here's what you need to know about billfish conservation in Puerto Rico: Both species are subject to DNER (Department of Natural and Environmental Resources) regulations in Puerto Rico:

  • Sailfish: Catch and release is encouraged

  • Swordfish: Strict size and bag limits apply

Always check current regulations before your trip.

Culinary Aspects

For those interested in the gastronomic side of fishing, it's worth noting that sailfish and swordfish have very different culinary profiles in Puerto Rico:

Sailfish

  • Rarely kept for food in Puerto Rico

  • If prepared, often served as ceviche or smoked

Swordfish

  • Highly prized for its meaty texture

  • Often grilled or pan-seared

  • Known locally as "el bistec del mar" (steak of the sea)

Puerto Rico Fishing Tips

After years of guiding anglers in these waters, I've picked up a few tricks of the trade. Here are my top tips for targeting sailfish and swordfish in Puerto Rico:

  1. For Sailfish: Book a charter out of Mayaguez or Cabo Rojo during winter months for best results.

  2. For Swordfish: Opt for overnight charters departing from San Juan for access to deep waters.

  3. Gear: Curate Fishing provides all necessary equipment for both species.

  4. Sustainability: Practice catch-and-release for sailfish to support conservation efforts.

Local Records

Nothing gets an angler's heart racing like the thought of a record-breaking catch. Here are the current records for sailfish and swordfish in Puerto Rico:

  • Sailfish: 127 lbs (Mayaguez, 2018)

  • Swordfish: 601 lbs (North Coast, 2020)

Ready to experience the thrill of battling sailfish or the challenge of deep-water swordfish? Curate Fishing offers specialized charters for both species, ensuring an unforgettable Puerto Rico fishing adventure. Curate Fishing operates year-round, providing expert guidance, top-notch equipment, and access to Puerto Rico's prime billfish grounds. Book your sailfish or swordfish expedition today!