cuda, sea pike, pike

They are found throughout the tropical Indian and Pacific oceans except the East Pacific, and are usually near reefs, piers, wrecks, sandy and grass flats, and wherever small fish congregate.

The first dorsal fin has 5 spines; the second, 10 soft rays. The first rays of the second dorsal and anal fins reach to or beyond the tips of the last rays when the fins are depressed. The adult barracuda has irregular black blotches on the lower flanks, especially near the tail.

The barracuda should be regarded as dangerous because of its ability to inflict serious injury, in or out of water. Fishing methods include trolling with plugs, spoons, prepared baits; live bait fishing with small fishes; casting and retrieving live and strip baits as well as plugs and spoons. The cast should not land too near the barracuda, but should be retrieved past it at a fast, erratic speed.It is not recommended for eating as it is coarse, tasteless and has been suspected of causing ciguatera (a nerve poisoning).