Houndfish (Crocodile Needlefish)

Coiba Killer, The Crocodile Needlefish

(Tylosurus crocodilus), or houndfish, is a striking, surface-dwelling game fish known for its long, slender body, crocodile-like jaws, and acrobatic leaps, making it a thrilling catch in the pristine waters of Coiba Island, Panama. A favorite among anglers in Coiba National Park, this species delivers fast-paced action near the largest coral reef system in the eastern Pacific.

Crocodile Needlefish are pelagic, netictic  fish, typically found from the surface to 5 meters (16 feet) in Coiba’s clear, fish-filled waters, often near coral reefs, mangroves, or rocky coastlines. They prefer shallow areas, skimming the surface to hunt, but may dive slightly deeper (10–20 meters) when pursued or feeding. Anglers target them in 5–30 feet using trolling or casting near Coiba’s islands, such as Granito de Oro or Rancheria, where they chase baitfish schools.

Crocodile Needlefish are widespread in the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to French Polynesia, and in the eastern Pacific from Southern California to Peru, including Coiba Island. They exhibit limited migrations, primarily moving within coastal waters to follow baitfish like anchovies or sardines. Around Coiba, they aggregate in large schools during spawning or high prey abundance, particularly near reef systems.

Their movements are influenced by ocean currents, with El Niño potentially dispersing them northward and La Niña concentrating them near Central America. Coiba’s protected waters, part of the Tropical Eastern Pacific Marine Corridor, make it a key habitat for these fish, which may travel short distances between islands like Coibita.

Crocodile Needlefish grow rapidly, with a lifespan of 4–6 years. They reach maturity at 1–2 years, around 50–60 cm (20–24 inches). Growth estimates include:

• Year 1: 40–60 cm (16–24 inches), 0.2–0.5 kg (0.5–1 pound).
• Year 2–3: 80–100 cm (31–39 inches), 1–2 kg (2–4 pounds).
• Year 5–6: 100–150 cm (39–59 inches), 2–4 kg (4–9 pounds).
• Maximum: Up to 150 cm (59 inches), 4.5 kg (10 pounds); Coiba catches typically range 2–6 pounds.

The IGFA record is 5.22 kg (11 pounds 8 ounces), caught in the Bahamas (2003), but Coiba’s nutrient-rich waters offer trophy potential.

The IUCN lists Crocodile Needlefish as Least Concern (2018), with stable populations due to fast growth, high reproductive rates, and wide distribution. Their resilience to fishing pressure is moderate, but Coiba’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park, with strict conservation measures, ensures robust local stocks. Overfishing in unprotected areas could pose risks, so catch-and-release is encouraged for sustainability.Diet in PanamaAround Coiba Island, Crocodile Needlefish are carnivorous, feeding on:

• Fish (80–90%): Small schooling fish like anchovies, sardines, and mullet, abundant near Coiba’s reefs.
• Crustaceans (5–10%): Shrimp and small crabs, targeted opportunistically.
• Other (5%): Juvenile fish or squid near the surface.

Their long jaws snap up prey with precision, often leaping out of the water during pursuits, making them exciting targets for surface lures.Central American Commercial CatchCrocodile Needlefish are a minor commercial species in Central America, caught as bycatch in purse seine and artisanal fisheries targeting tuna or mackerel. In Panama, artisanal fishers around Coiba retain small amounts, but their low market value limits targeting. Costa Rica emphasizes sportfishing, with minimal commercial harvest. Specific landing data is scarce, often lumped with other needlefish, but Coiba’s protected status reduces fishing pressure. The IATTC promotes bycatch reduction with sustainable gear to minimize impacts.Coiba-Specific Facts

1. Fishing Hotspot: Coiba’s reefs, like Bahia Damas, yield 2–6 pound needlefish, perfect for light tackle near Granito de Oro.
2. Acrobatic Action: Known for leaping high when hooked, thrilling anglers near Coiba’s shores.
3. Conservation Haven: Coiba National Park’s 430,825-hectare marine protected area supports thriving populations.
4. Sportfishing Appeal: Their speed and surface strikes make them a draw for Coiba’s tourism industry.
5. Ecosystem Role: As predators, they control baitfish populations, supporting Coiba’s biodiverse food web.

Remarkable Facts

1. Crocodile Jaws: Their elongated, tooth-filled jaws resemble a crocodile’s, earning their name.
2. Aerial Acrobats: Can leap 10 feet out of the water, posing a hazard due to their sharp beaks.
3. Speed Demons: Reach 30 mph, delivering fast runs and surface strikes.
4. Reef Hunters: Patrol Coiba’s coral reefs, ambushing prey with precision.
5. Caution Advised: Their sharp bills can cause injury, so handle with care during release.

Why Fish from Coiba Island?Coiba’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make it a Crocodile Needlefish paradise. Their high leaps and aggressive strikes are perfect for light tackle anglers using small spoons, plugs, or live bait like sardines. The chance for multi-species catches alongside Coiba’s marine life—turtles, sharks, and rays—adds to the adventure.Conservation NotePractice catch-and-release to sustain populations, especially in Coiba’s protected waters. Use barbless hooks to minimize harm, ensuring this species thrives for future anglers.