Have you ever been out kayaking on a perfect summer day when suddenly small silvery fish start leaping out of the water all around you? If you’ve ever found yourself amid schools of flying fish bursting from the ocean surface, no doubt you were filled with wonder at the acrobatic display of aerial artistry.

While catching one of these airborne fish might seem impossible, with a bit of practice and understanding of flying fish behavior, you, too, can successfully catch these remarkable creatures in mid-flight. 

In this post, I’ll share tips and techniques on how to catch flying fish to intercept flying fish when they take to the skies above the water’s surface. By learning their flight patterns and instincts, you can up your chances of succeeding in this unique challenge.

Necessary Items for Catching Flying Fish

Before setting out on your flying fish-catching adventure, there are some essential items you’ll need to have on hand:

• A sturdy fishing net: This is the most crucial equipment for catching flying fish. Ensure your yield has a fine mesh, as small fish like these can easily slip through larger holes.
• An experienced guide: If you’re new to catching flying fish, having someone with experience and knowledge of their behavior is best. They can offer valuable tips and help you locate the best spots for finding these elusive creatures.
• Protective gear: It’s always a good idea to wear protective gloves and eyewear while attempting to catch flying fish. Their sharp fins and unpredictable movements can cause injury if you’re not careful.
• Bait or lures: While flying fish primarily feed on plankton and small fish, they can also be enticed by specific bait or lures. Consult your guide for the best options for your particular location.

Now that you have all the necessary items ready, let’s dive into some techniques for catching flying fish.

10 Steps on How to Catch Flying Fish

Step 1: Understanding Flying Fish Behavior

Before we dive into the catching techniques, it’s essential to understand the behavior of flying fish. These creatures are excellent swimmers and can reach up to 37 mph underwater. When they feel threatened by predators or boats passing above them, they use their powerful tails to launch themselves out of the water and glide through the air for distances of up to 1300 feet.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Location

Flying fish are most commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters, so choose a location that fits this criteria. Additionally, look for areas with plenty of plankton and small fish, as these are the primary food sources for flying fish.

Step 3: Timing is Key

The best time to catch flying fish is early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Avoid attempting to catch them during the hottest part of the day, as they tend to retreat to deeper waters to stay calm.

Step 4: Use a Light Source at Night

If you’re attempting to catch flying fish at night, a light source can attract them to your boat. Flying fish are attracted to light and will often leap out of the water towards it, making them easier to catch.

Step 5: Keep an Eye on the Horizon

When searching for flying fish, keep your eyes peeled on the horizon. Look for any movement or splashing in the water, indicating a school of flying fish taking flight. Once you’ve spotted them, move in as quietly and calmly as possible.

Step 6: Position Your Boat

When you’ve found a school of flying fish, it’s crucial to position your boat upwind from their flight path. This will allow the wind to carry the fish in your direction, making it easier for you to catch them with your net.

Step 7: Use Quick Movements

When a flying fish takes flight, they constantly change direction and height. You’ll need to have quick reflexes and make fluid movements with your net to catch them.

Step 8: Aim for the Head

Aim to scoop up the flying fish towards their head with your net. This is where their center of gravity is located, making catching and preventing them from slipping out of the net easier.

Step 9: Be Gentle

When handling flying fish, be gentle and avoid squeezing or gripping them tightly. They are delicate creatures with sensitive skin, so handle them with care.

Step 10: Release Them Safely

If you release the flying fish back into the water, do so gently and away from your boat. This will prevent any potential injuries to yourself or the fish.

By following these steps and having patience and perseverance, you’ll have a better chance of successfully catching flying fish. Remember always to respect these creatures and their natural habitat. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the incredible experience of catching flying fish in mid-air! Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be a pro at this unique fishing technique. 

8 Things to Avoid When Catching Flying Fish

While knowing the steps for successfully catching flying fish is essential, it’s equally important to know what not to do. Here are eight things to avoid when trying to catch these elusive creatures:

1. Using a Net With Large Holes

As mentioned before, having a net with fine mesh is crucial when attempting to catch flying fish. Using a net with larger holes will make it easier for the fish to slip through and escape.

2. Making Loud Noises

Flying fish are easily spooked by loud noises, so try to keep your voice down and avoid sudden movements or loud noises while attempting to catch them.

3. Using Heavy Fishing Gear

Catching flying fish requires quick reflexes and swift movements, which can be challenging with heavy fishing gear. Opt for the lightweight and flexible bag to make the process more manageable.

4. Chasing After Them

Trying to chase after flying fish can be tempting, but waiting for them to come towards your boat is better. You’ll have a better chance of catching them this way than chasing after them.

5. Not Wearing Protective Gear

Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when catching flying fish. Their sharp fins and unpredictable movements can cause injuries if you’re not careful.

6. Using the Wrong Bait or Lures

Consult your guide or research suitable bait or lures for catching flying fish in your location. Using the wrong type can reduce your chances of success.

7. Handling Them Roughly

Flying fish are delicate creatures, and handling them roughly can cause injuries or even death. Always handle them gently and with care.

8. Not Releasing Them Properly

If you decide to release the flying fish back into the water, make sure to do so in a safe manner away from your boat. This will prevent any harm or injury to both you and the fish. Remember these tips, and you’ll have a more enjoyable and successful experience catching flying fish.

Catching flying fish can be an exciting and rewarding experience for any angler. However, it’s essential to understand the behavior of these creatures and follow proper techniques and precautions when attempting to catch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Flying Fish Safe to Eat?

Yes, flying fish are edible and considered a delicacy in some cultures. However, consulting with a local expert or guide on the safety and sustainability of consuming them in your chosen location is advisable.

Do I Need a Special License to Catch Flying Fish?

This varies depending on your location and the type of fishing you’re doing. It’s best to check with local authorities or consult with a guide beforehand.

How Many Flying Fish Can I Catch?

Again, this depends on your location and the regulations in place. Make sure to research and follow any catch limits or rules to ensure the sustainability of these creatures.

Is It Harmful to Catch and Release Flying Fish?

Catching and releasing flying fish is generally beneficial if done correctly. However, handling them gently and releasing them back into the water at a safe distance from your boat is essential.

How Long Do Flying Fish Stay in Mid-Air?

On average, flying fish can stay airborne for 10 to 15 seconds. However, some species have been known to glide for up to 45 seconds at a time.

Can I Catch Flying Fish in Freshwater?

Flying fish are found in saltwater and cannot survive in freshwater environments. They are commonly found near the ocean’s surface in tropical and subtropical regions. 

Conclusion

As we conclude this journey into the world of flying fish, it’s clear that these unique creatures are more than just a novelty in the ocean. Their incredible leaps and aerodynamic glides have captured our imagination and inspired us to witness their beauty firsthand. We have learned about their fascinating behaviors and how to catch flying fish using various methods, but more importantly, we have gained a deeper appreciation for these elusive creatures.

But let’s remember that the magic of flying fish is not limited to simply catching them. As responsible anglers, it is crucial for us also to prioritize their conservation and sustainability. With threats such as overfishing and pollution looming over our oceans, it’s more important than ever to take action and protect these magnificent creatures.