Fish Species that we Love - Barracuda

I thought that it would be a good time to take a look at the species that we regularly catch here in Palau. First cab off the rank is the Barracuda

My best 'cuda to date caught on a Yozuri Surface Bull (120g)

 When I first came to Palau and fished primarily for GTs, I saw the Barracuda as a nuisance and great way to get my lures smashed or stolen. These days I appreciate them more for the sport they provide (especially the big ones) and the locals LOVE to eat them, so if there is someone we know having an important ceremony or family party, we donate them. Most times though, we release them if they aren't injured.

Most Barracudas are released as this one by Iwasakisan is. This one caught on a floating slider

 The classic way of catching the bigger 'cudas here is by trolling, they are often caught when trolling for Spanish Mackerel or Wahoo. For us though almost all are caught during topwater fishing in shallow reef areas on poppers or surface sliders.

Another beautiful 'cuda caught in 1.5m of water on a 125mm surface popper

There are two species regularly caught, the ones pictured are the larger of the two and are generally caught between 15 and 30 pounds with the occasional larger ones. To sum up my thoughts on the Barracuda; big, smelly, toothy and good fun!