broadbill, swordfish

Broadbill swordfish are oceanic fish distributed through tropical and temperate waters of the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans. They inhabit all Australian waters beyond the edge of the continental shelf. When spawning females prefer cool, deep waters near submarine canyons or coral banks. Males prefer to remain in somewhat warmer waters.

Broadbill swordfish are blackish-brown on the upper body, fading to light brown on the belly. Their fins are brown or blackish-brown. Their upper jaw extends into a long bill which has a flattened oval cross section. Adults have no teeth or scales and they have a large keel on each side of the body in front of the tail. The dorsal fins are broadly separated and there are no pelvic fins.

This pelagic, migratory species usually travels alone. It uses its sword for defense and to kill or stun food such as squid, dolphin, mackerel, bluefish and various other midwater and deep-sea pelagic species. Fishing methods include presenting trolling baits or deep drifting at night with bait such as squid. They are finicky, easily frightened by an approaching boat. Usually the bait must be presented carefully and repeatedly before the swordfish will take it. Squid is the most popular bait, though Spanish mackerel, eel, mullet, herring, tuna and live or dead bonito are also used.The meat of the swordfish is excellent eating.