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Roundscale Spearfish


Roundscale Spearfish are easily misidentified with white marlin.

The individual scales of a white marlin are not very noticeable where those of the Roundscale Spearfish are much more distinct with a stippled look.

Roundscale Spearfish Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr. (The above picture is a White Marlin which closely resembles the Roundscale Spearfish)
Season Open Year-Round

All Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (Atlantic tunas, sharks, swordfish and billfish) not retained must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.

There is an annual U.S. landings limit of 250 Atlantic Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and Roundscale Spearfish (combined). Landings updates and seasonal closures are posted under “What's New...” at https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/

*Special permit required - All private vessel owners/operators recreationally fishing for and/or retaining regulated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (Atlantic tunas, sharks, swordfish and billfish) for personal use in the Atlantic Ocean must obtain an Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Angling Permit. Further limits and restrictions apply.

Consult https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/ or call toll free (888) 872-8862 for specific information and permits.
Size Limit 66 inch minimum (measured from the tip of the lower jaw to the tail fork)
Daily Limit / Person No Limit
Delaware Range Atlantic Ocean
Abundance in Delaware Waters Unknown
General Habitat and Food Preferences An oceanic species, the Roundscale Spearfish is primarily a near surface water fish.

They feed primarily on sardines, squids, flying fish, and other medium-sized fishes.
Did You Know? The Roundscale Spearfish was recently deemed a separate species from the white marlin.

There is very little scientific information available on the Roundscale Spearfish.
Common Lures and Baits Most people troll rubber skirted lures or natural baits when fishing for white marlin and Roundscale Spearfish.
Typical Sizes Caught Roundscale Spearfish are comparable in size to white marlin (common 62 to 70 inches in length and 45 to 65 pounds).
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Roundscale Spearfish are a protected species and not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record Roundscale Spearfish are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

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