One of the most elusive and great tasting fish along the Gulf Coast is the Wahoo. These torpedo shaped fish can travel at a speed of 48 mph and are known to give an angler sore muscles after the fight of landing one on board. They rarely school and can grow over 100 lbs. Most caught in local water are in the 30-50lb range. (Florida state record wahoo weighed 139.56 pounds)
In Hawaii the wahoo are called ONO, a Hawaiian word meaning “good to eat.” If you’re an angler who loves a good chase, then wahoo fishing has to be on your bucket list. This saltwater speedster, known for its lightning-fast bursts and acrobatic jumps, is a true prize among the area's diverse fish population. The thrill of the catch is what makes wahoo a favorite among fishers. But, it’s the delicious, delicate flavor of its steaks that make it a favorite in coastal kitchens.
So how do you catch them? Before you hit the water, let’s talk gear. For these speedsters, you’ll want heavy-duty trolling gear. Start with a high-speed trolling reel paired with a sturdy rod capable of withstanding the wahoo’s notorious pull. Braided line is a must – go for something in the 50 to 80-pound test range to ensure you can handle the fight without a snap. Don’t forget a selection of lures that mimic the wahoo’s favorite prey, with bright colors and reflective surfaces to catch their eye.
If you want a professional charter to help then consider Zeke's Marina. They have several Captains who are experienced with these torpedoes of the sea. They also can show you how to filet the precious steaks for the rare wahoo dinner.
Wahoo is mild tasting and has a low fat content so the meat doesn't dry out when cooking. They are great for fish tacos, but if you have a few minutes you may want to try the pan cooked recipe below:
DIRECTIONS
Enjoy the Wahoo meal of your choice. You will never forget the first wahoo catch of your life!
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