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Atlantic Cutlassfish


Atlantic Cutlassfish have a flattened, ribbon-like body with no scales. Instead, they are covered with shiny, metallic sliver to silver-blue skin.

They have large, fang-like teeth.

Atlantic Cutlassfish Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.
Season Open Year Round
Size Limit No Size Limit
Daily Limit / Person No Limit
Delaware Range Atlantic Ocean
Abundance in Delaware Waters Uncommon
General Habitat and Food Preferences Atlantic Cutlassfish can be found from nearshore waters to 300 feet deep. They prefer muddy bottoms.

The Atlantic Cutlassfish is a voracious predator feeding on almost any kind of small fish and shrimp.
Did You Know? Atlantic Cutlassfish have a nickname of "ribbon fish" because their body is ribbon-like.

They feed in a tail-down position, hovering under the surface and rising to strike.
Common Lures and Baits Atlantic Cutlassfish are usually caught accidentally by anglers fishing for other species. They can be caught with strips of squid, cut pieces of fish, shrimp or small live fish.

They can also be caught with fish imitating artificial lures.
Typical Sizes Caught In general, Atlantic Cutlassfish caught by anglers range between 2 and 3 feet in length.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Atlantic Cutlassfish are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award, but a large specimen may qualify for an “Unusual Species” award.
Delaware State Record Atlantic Cutlassfish are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

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