Barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda)
- Size: Great barracuda can reach lengths of up to 6 feet or more.
- Habitat: Barracudas are commonly found in coastal and offshore waters of tropical and subtropical regions. They thrive in many environments such as artificial reefs, seagrass beds, shipwrecks, and open water. Barracuda will often learn to lurk under fishing boats in order to steal an easy meal.
- Bait: Barracudas are fast and agile swimmers and are known for their ambush hunting style, where they use their speed and sharp teeth to cut their prey into pieces before eating. Large live baits such as blue runners are the most effective when targeting barracuda. Large spoons and “cuda tubes” can also be used if live baits are unavailable.
- Tackle: Heavy spinning or conventional gear and wire leaders are recommended when fishing for barracuda. They are very strong, very fast, and will occasionally jump when hooked.
- Food Value: Barracuda are not considered a food fish and eating larger individuals will often result in Ciguatera fish poisoning.