Species
Broadbill Swordfish
Xiphias gladius
Also known as broadbill
Tier 2Eating9/10extra heavy tackleNear ThreatenedNSWVICQLDSAWATAS
0 waypoints150–250 cm (max 450 cm) typical
Regulations
NSWbag 1
| State | Size | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | — | 1 |
Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.
Overview: about broadbill swordfish
Massive deepwater pelagic of Australian offshore waters, the focus of a growing east-coast daytime deep-drop fishery. Caught on heavy electric reels with squid or fish baits in 400-800 m, off NSW, VIC and TAS especially. Premium table fish.
Biology: Broadbill Swordfish size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Drop-off, Offshore
- Typical size
- 150–250 cm (max 450 cm)
- Weight
- 50–400 kg
- Depth range
- 0–800 m
- Diet
- fish, squid
- Global range
- Circumglobal
How to target: Broadbill Swordfish angling strategies
Generally fished with extra heavy tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- daytime deep-drop with squid in 500-700 m
- night-time drifts with lighted baits
Conservation
IUCN: Near Threatened
Recent community catches: anglers who caught broadbill swordfish
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More information: broadbill swordfish references & sources
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