Physical Characteristics

Appearance:
Wahoo have an elongated body with an iridescent blue back and silvery sides, adorned with irregular vertical blue bars.

Size:
They can grow up to 2.5 meters (8 feet 2 inches) in length and weigh up to 83 kilograms (183 pounds).

Teeth:
Wahoo have razor-sharp teeth, which are crucial for their predatory lifestyle.

Habitat & Distribution

Range:
Wahoo are found worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

Behavior:
They tend to be solitary or occur in loose-knit groups of two or three but can sometimes be found in schools of up to 100 or more.

Diet & Feeding:

Wahoo primarily feed on other fish and squid. Their speed and sharp teeth make them efficient and deadly predators.

Fishing for Wahoo

Wahoo fishing is an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of high-speed chases with the satisfaction of landing one of the ocean’s most formidable predators. Often referred to as the “tiger of the sea,” wahoo are known for their incredible speed, razor-sharp teeth, and aggressive strikes. They offer an intense challenge and are a prized catch for sport anglers worldwide.

Introduction

Wahoo are renowned for their speed, capable of reaching up to 60 mph. Their explosive runs can strip hundreds of yards of line off your reel in seconds. As table fare, they offer a delicate, smoky flavor comparable to mackerel.

Fun Fact: In Hawaii, wahoo are called "ono," which means "delicious."

Fishing Techniques for Catching Wahoo

There are several highly effective methods used to target wahoo:



• High-Speed Trolling
• Slow Trolling / Bump Trolling
• Planer Trolling
• Vertical Jigging
• Kite Fishing
• Chunking

Gear and Equipment

You’ll need a sturdy rod and high-capacity reel capable of handling heavy lines at high speeds. Roller guides are ideal for managing line friction. Use a variety of lures at staggered distances to cover more water and increase your hookup rate.

Timing: When to Catch Wahoo

Early morning and late afternoon tend to yield the best results. Wahoo are more active during low-light periods, when their prey is also on the move.

Location: Where to Catch Wahoo

Target structure-rich areas like:

• Reefs
• Ledges
• Drop-offs
• Weed lines
• Floating debris fields

These are common hunting grounds for wahoo looking to ambush prey.

Final Thoughts

Wahoo are fascinating for both their physical prowess and value in sport fishing. The chase is as thrilling as the catch. With the right gear, knowledge, and preparation, anglers of all levels can experience the unmatched adrenaline of landing a wahoo.

So gear up, get out there, and experience the high-speed excitement of wahoo fishing firsthand.

Happy fishing!