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Atlantic Needlefish


The Atlantic Needlefish has a long, narrow body with a greenish back, silvery sides and a bluish stripe running the length of its body.

It has long narrow mouth filled with small needle-like teeth.

Atlantic Needlefish 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 - this species is more common south of Delaware.
General Habitat and Food Preferences Atlantic Needlefish are found in coastal waters, bays and estuaries in shallow waters near the shoreline.

They feed on small fishes and shrimps.
Did You Know? The Atlantic Needlefish gets its name from its long, needle-like jaws.
Common Lures and Baits Because of the hardness of their jaws and their many teeth, Atlantic Needlefish are notoriously difficult to land.

Almost any lure imitating a small fish will work as long as it is fished just under the surface.
Typical Sizes Caught In general, Atlantic Needlefish are caught by anglers in the range of 8 to 18 inches in length.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Atlantic Needlefish 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 Needlefish are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

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