Atlantic Needlefish: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is an Atlantic Needlefish?
The Atlantic Needlefish is a long, skinny, silver torpedo with a beak full of sharp teeth — like a gar and a swordfish had a weird, hyperactive baby. Known for their lightning-fast surface strikes, Needlefish roam warm, coastal waters and often explode out of the water like flying pencils.
The first FishyAF Atlantic Needlefish was landed by Mike Harper, who clearly has quick reflexes because these things miss more hooks than your uncle misses calls from his ex-wife.
This guide covers where Atlantic Needlefish live, how to catch them, how to avoid their aerial chaos, and what makes them such a unique coastal species. Click here to see what Needlefish hunters are wearing.
🐟 Atlantic Needlefish Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Strongylura marina |
| Average Size | 1–3 ft |
| Max Size | ~4 ft |
| Habitat | Coastal shallows, bays, estuaries, warm surface waters |
| Edible? | Technically yes — but not a common table fish |
❓ FAQs About Atlantic Needlefish
Where can you catch Atlantic Needlefish?
They range from Massachusetts to Brazil, thriving in warm coastal waters, inlets, bridges, mangroves, and sandy beaches where baitfish travel near the surface.
How big do Atlantic Needlefish get?
Most are 1–3 feet long, but larger individuals can reach around 4 feet. They’re long, skinny, and built for speed.
Are Atlantic Needlefish dangerous?
Not aggressive — but they can accidentally spear anglers at night because they leap at high speeds. Watch your face.
Are Atlantic Needlefish good to eat?
They’re edible but not widely targeted for food. Most anglers catch them for fun, bait, or species hunts.
How do you catch Atlantic Needlefish?
Small lures, spoons, and baitfish imitations worked on or near the surface. They often slash sideways at lures, so hookups can be chaotic.
What’s the best bait or lure for Atlantic Needlefish?
- Small silver spoons - Glass minnows - Sabiki rigs - Tiny topwater lures - Shrimp or cut bait free-lined on the surface
When is the best time to catch Atlantic Needlefish?
Dawn, dusk, and nighttime around lights. They feed heavily when bait is pushed to the surface.
😂 FishyAF Atlantic Needlefish Joke
Atlantic Needlefish — the only fish that can miss your lure, jump three feet in the air, and still scare the hell out of you.
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🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
Chasing Needlefish on the surface? You need the Switchback Hat and Performance Sun Shirt designed for long days under the sun.