1. What is a Swordfish?
Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) also called as "Pala Fish" in some areas is a huge sea predator with long and pointed beak on its head which may reach the length of 3 meters and weight up to 2000 kg. It has no scales, but tough skin that can be sanded to make sword which is known as "Pala" in Indonesian language.
Its meat can be eaten raw or dried first, and it is widely consumed in Japan.
2. What kind of rod suitable for Swordfish?
Swordfish are generally schooled fish that travel alone or with friends, not too active unless they are chasing their prey. They are believed to have an acute sense of smell, so be sure not to approach the fish until you're quite close.
The best fishing rod for swordfish is heavy duty type with strong power, long length and soft action if possible. Rod strength should match both fish weight and environmental condition where it will be fished. Softer rod action will ensure the fight is smooth and tension won't be too much for the fish to handle. Of course you can catch a small swordfish with lighter rod, but in that case it's advisable to use heavy duty reel that is capable of holding longer line.
3. When choosing fishing gear, look at this "play by play" Swordfish's fight
Swordfish will attack their prey with high speed run by using its big tail. They can leap up to 10 meters in the air, so it is recommended for you to set out 200 meters of line or even more if your fishing ground can handle that kind of weight.
However, before the fish runs at full speed, it will slowly "chase" the prey and slash its big beak from side to side like a predator, until it manages to hook its prey.
Swordfish's beak is very sharp and strong, so it will cut the line easily if you hook it wrongly. If you hook the fish too deep, it will also run fast thus making a very difficult fight.
4. How to land a Swordfish?
After you managed to hook the fish and it runs with great speed, your rod must be sturdy enough to hold against its weight. When a swordfish is tired after a long run, it will go down to the sea bed and starts "digging" by using his big tail.
You can do several things at this point, such as letting the fish swim around until it becomes tired again so you will be able to pull it up easily. But if you want to land the fish immediately, try changing your rod angle so that the swordfish's head will be facing up instead of down.
After you manage to do that, the exhausted fish should come right above the water surface in no time. Be ready with your landing net and quickly pull it out! The swordfish will then be safely deposited into your boat or onto dry ground.
5. How to estimate Swordfish's weight?
Swordfish's weight can be estimated by using its "sword". The bigger the sword, the heavier the fish. It is also possible to estimate a swordfish's length (and weight) from its dorsal fin and tail fins.
