Also known as: Silver Eel, Ribbonfish
The Atlantic cutlassfish, or ribbonfish as they are usually called in Texas, have no scales. Instead, their long, tapered bodies are covered with shiny, metallic silver skin. The body conformation is cutlass-like, tapering from the head to a pointed tail.
Life History: The Cutlassfish's life history is not well known. Juveniles are found in the central, coastal area of Texas in May and June, indicating spawning as late as February. They feed primarily on small fish and shrimp.
Distribution: The Atlantic cutlassfish is found in the Atlantic, Indian and western Pacific Oceans. It is very abundant in Texas waters.
Habitat & Range
These fish are found throughout Gulf waters.
Cutlassfish are sold as live bait for offshore fishing.
Life History
The Cutlassfish's life history is not well known. Juveniles are found in the central, coastal area of Texas in May and June, indicating spawning as late as February. They feed primarily on small fish and shrimp.
License & Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 5-day, and annual). Freshwater and saltwater endorsements may be required for certain waters. Purchase online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Life History
The Cutlassfish's life history is not well known. Juveniles are found in the central, coastal area of Texas in May and June, indicating spawning as late as February. They feed primarily on small fish and shrimp.
Habitat
These fish are found throughout Gulf waters. Cutlassfish are sold as live bait for offshore fishing.
Fishing Tips
Cutlassfish are not sought-after by anglers, although they can be incidentally caught on small fish, shrimp, or artificial lures. In fact, they steal bait meant for other fish and won't hesitate to use their sharp, barbed teeth on unwary anglers. They feed in a tail-down position, hovering under the surface and rising to strike. Their principal use is as bait for offshore species such as king mackerel, spanish mackerel and wahoo.
Interesting Facts
Cutlassfish are not used as a food fish in the U. S., but are considered a delicacy in some other countries.
Distribution
The Atlantic cutlassfish is found in the Atlantic, Indian and western Pacific Oceans. It is very abundant in Texas waters.
Regulations
Texas fishing regulations apply to Atlantic Cutlassfish. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some species have catch-and-release only restrictions or special tournament regulations. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual for current regulations specific to your fishing location. Possession limits in Texas are twice the daily bag limit unless otherwise noted.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-reside | Link |
