Species guide
How to catch Machete
Elops affinis
The Machete, also known as the Ladyfish or Pacific ladyfish, is a sleek, elongated fish found in coastal waters. It forms schools in shallow inshore areas and estuaries and is prized as a game fish for its strong fight. These predatory fish feed on smaller fish and shrimp-like creatures, making them exciting targets for anglers.
Where they live
Found in schools along shallow coastal and estuarine waters up to 10 meters deep in the Pacific and North America. They penetrate lagoons and estuaries but spawn offshore.
Typical size
Up to about 91 cm
What they eat
- small fish
- penaeid shrimp
Best baits
- small live fish
- shrimp
- cut bait
Best lures
- small spoons
- jigs
- soft plastic minnows
- topwater plugs
How to fish for them
- casting from shore
- light spinning tackle
- fly fishing in estuaries
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