Catching a great barracuda means knowing how this apex predator behave. Knowing what to expect of various sizes will let you catch and enjoy them. A big adult next to a deep wreck is not the same as 10 inch juvenile in shallow water. Knowing how they behave and how they grow (see chart above) allow you to select your approach.
The location and behavior of these fish depend on their size. The young ones lives together on shallow flats feeding on small baitfish; they are aggressive but manageable. As they get bigger then eighteen inches, they start to venture out around the edges of reefs looking for lone ambush spots for hunting. The largest trophy-sized barracuda live in deeper water and only feed when large meals comes along and not much else besides each other.
How to Catch Barracuda
That’s why you will have to adapt your approach to the size of fish you wish to target. Big fish like a hundred pounds won’t work with light tackle, and a small fish doesn’t call for a bunch of heavy gear either. Match your tackle to life stage of barracuda, and the graphic does an excellent job explaining the connection between them.
Keep in mind: The barracuda’s mouth is deadly. Its teeth are razor-sharp and hook together, easily severing monofilament line. For all but the smallest specimen, wire leaders are necessary, they won’t snap under pressure. It’s a safety thing; it’s not solely about keeping the fish. Broken line pulls out a hook and puts one in your hand, ruining your day. Don’t scoff at this tip. Newbies will tell you how many times they’ve lost gear or been injured by refusing to follow it. Whether or not it feels clumsy, go with wire leaders when fishing for adult. They’ll do the job.
Ciguatera toxin in barracuda is another reason to be cautious when consuming them. As barracuda consume smaller contaminated prey, the toxin builds up in their bodies. Generally speaking, all reef fish in tropical waters over three pounds contains enough ciguatoxin to pose a threat. If you catch a big one, it is usually best to catch and release it. You’ll still get that awesome experience without having to worry about getting sick.
Barracuda can be caught trolling long silver spoons, tube lures, or other baits at 8-12 knots. Barracuda will hit the lure fast because it look like a distressed baitfish. You can cast around buoys or wrecks too. Just remember they are attracted to shine so be careful holding your hand out as they can take a finger off. Before picking up one of these guys, get any bling off your hands. They will bite at the reflection of your watch or your jewelry. Keep your fingers, but enjoy the fight with fish.
Take Care: Respect their power, wear gloves when landing a barracuda and go slow. You should of not lose any fingers and have fun.