James RickardFlying fish
November 14th 2007 00:44
Science believes flying fish developed their gliding ability to escape predators. Mackerel, tuna, swordfish, marlin, and other larger fish dine on flying fish. Ironically, for their sustenance, flying fish rely on plankton.
There are about 40 known species of flying fish. Many species have enlarged pelvic fins as well and are known as four-winged flying fish.
Taking flight, which is actually gliding, begins by achieving about 37 miles (60 kilometers) per hour under water! Upon breaking the surface, the fish begins to taxi by rapidly beating its tail while it is still beneath the surface. Then it gets airborne, sometimes reaching heights over 4 feet (1.2 meters) and gliding long distances, up to 655 feet (200 meters). Finally, as it nears the surface again, it can flap its tail and taxi without fully returning to the water and continue its flight. With such locomotion, flying fish have been recorded stretching their flights to 1,312 feet (400 meters).
Not too big at only 18-24 inches (45-60 cm.), flying fish are attracted to light like a number of sea creatures. Canoes cruise around at night with lights to attract flying fish. In the canoe is enough water to sustain the fish, but not enough to allow them to propel themselves out. In this manner, flying fish are captured by the dozens. Aside from its status as one of nature's oddities, flying fish are also used for sushi.
Until next time--watch yourself and watch your line!
*photo from nationalgeographic.com
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Comment by tlcorbin-raginravensview
Coffee Quip
What'd ya use to bait these things?
Raven
Comment by James Rickard
unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish
Check this out...
It surprised me when I found out that these thing are more widespread than I thought. I didn't know it but, you can find flying fish in EVERY ocean of the world! Considering that, it's pretty hard to say what is the BEST bait. They eat some meat along with the plankton. They'll feed on small fish and crustaceans but the EXACT kind depends on where they are. Ironically, they make better bait than a game fish. They're dynamite on tuna!