Swordfish fishing commonly takes place in the evening as swordfish naturally feed at night. Considered to be opportunistic predators, swordfish feed at the surface as well as the very bottom of the ocean. The average depth range for swordfish ranges from 41-80F, however swordfish are also known to swim in depths of 2,000 feet or more where the waters are just about at freezing levels. Swordfish feed mostly on pelagic fish and occasionally squid and other types of cephalopods. When swordfish are at lower depths, they prefer to feed on demersal fish. The sword is quite obviously for the purpose of killing prey.
Time to go Night Swordfish Fishing!
Broadbill Tackle
Before you head out in the evening to go night swordfish fishing you will want to get the perfect bait. High quality is best as this is the key to successful fishing across the board. Many fishermen have their own preferences, however we find that dead bait such as mackerel stick rigged to drift or squid on a pin rig works. Assure that you trim the tails if you are using live bait as to make sure it is easier for the swordfish to catch with their sword.
Rigging up
If you are using squid as bait (which swordfish love) there are more than a few ways to rig a dead squid. However the most optimal way is using what we call a pin rig. Basically it is a tag end or a pin that is used to keep the squid high on the hook by pinning the mantle. Assure that you size your hook properly to the squid. If you use a larger hook, you will have more hook exposed from the squid.
Letting out your Spread
It is very effective to drift for swordfish at night. You should make sure that you stagger your baits at roughly between 150,200 and 300. You will need to make sure that each of these lines have a balloon. You should have 4 rods that are ready to be deployed. Once you have decided on the direction and speed of your drift specifically, you will want to get your first line out. The first line should always be your longest line. Once you have all four lines in the water, you will need to turn off all of your boat lights and listen very quietly to your rods. Double check all lines as you go. If you don’t hear anything after about 40 minutes to an hour, double check your tip rods. If you see that your bait has been slashed, you will need to bring in your balloon/jug rods and re-bait. Another tip is to use 4 foot green hydro glow light to attract the bait to the fish.
You See a Potential Catch!
If you hear the drag being taken out, your balloon/jug comes off or you see a fish surfacing the water you will want to get on it! You should have your drag set just enough to keep line from coming off the reel. Increase the tension of the drag and start your cranking! Once you get tight on the fist, the hook should set once the line is tight.
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