Many fellow anglers could relate to the joy of catching the fiery ribbonfish. It’s the easiest prey for beginners. Here are some tips I learned to get the most baits over the years.
Identifying the “Ribbonfish” Or “Cutlassfish”
Also known as cutlassfish or a belt, ribbonfish is a popular fish throughout the world. These long, shiny fish are aggressive in nature, and their sharp teeth can lead to major bite-offs. Mistaken for eel, their meat is often compared to flounder (not fishy and light).
In most countries, they are enjoyed in soups and sold for around 35 dollars a pound. Some specifications of Atlantic cutlassfish include:
Narrow head
Sharp formidable teeth
Silver and shiny
Swim like a snake
Reddish dorsal fins that extend through the back
Elongated body
Ribbonfish Fishing Tackle
These predators don’t require specific gear to catch them. They usually hit both spoons and plugs, whether trolled or cast.
To avoid bite-offs, it’s best to use 2/0 hooks with 6 inches of No.3 wire. I prefer pre-made wire rigs to secure the main line and swivels to hang hooks or lures. Simply, fish these rigs on medium action with 8- to 20-pound mainline and 30- or 40-pound monofilament leaders.
Effective Strategy To Catch The Ribbonfish For Beginners
Ribbonfish are curious animals and would sniff and bite on anything they find. Perhaps the easiest and most effective technique is to have a trace of wire leader to prevent the fish from biting off the line with its sharp teeth.
Once the fish is located, release the rigs baited with preserved ribbonfish, mullet, or minnow. Remember to use the fluorescent lights attached with alligator clips for better visibility in the dark water.
Best Baits For Ribbonfish & Ways To Preserve Them
The best baits for ribbonfish include minnows, mullet, shrimp, and fish chunks. However, smaller ribbonfish can also be used to catch king mackerel.
Preservation Process
The night before fishing, put your bait in a large container with 2 boxes of baking soda(1 pound each), 3 boxes of non-iodized salt (3 pounds each), and 5 to 51/2 gallons of seawater.
To start the brining process, fill the brine solution slightly above the drain plug and add 8 pounds of ice. Wrap the fish in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and leave it to brine for 8-12 hours. Don’t exceed 12 hours, as it can damage the bait entirely.
Leave one inch between 2 ribbons when freezing per sleeve for proper freezing.
Best Places For Ribbonfish Fishing
Ribbonfish are commonly found in deep water with muddy bottoms. They are everywhere, from the Gulf of Mexico to Massachusetts and Argentina. However, they are also spotted in the bays of Virginia Beach (Chesapeake Bay) and the Patuxent River.
Fishing reports mention that ribbonfish caught in the bay are smaller, while bigger ones can be found between two and 12 miles offshore. They can also be caught in the bottom of inlets.
They prey on smaller fish, and the biggest hack is to use a fluorescent light source close to the water or to use blue Rat-L-Traps to attract or spot them.
Best Time To Find Ribbonfish
In the U.S., you can fish throughout the year, with July/August and November/December being the peak seasons for catching big fish from the ocean.
Other anglers also suggest going in October to get the most fish before the competition gets high.
To Conclude
You might think twice before catching ribbonfish, as they throw tantrums before getting on the boat. Keeping an eye near the surface during the day and at great depths during the night will ensure you’ve the best time catching the big fella.
