When we think of speed, our minds usually race to land-based animals or high-speed cars and planes. However, the underwater world has its own champions, darting through oceans and rivers with unparalleled agility. In today’s article, we’ll delve into the fastest fish in the world, exploring not only the reigning champ but also a few worthy contenders. Buckle up, it’s going to be a swift journey!
The Undisputed Champion: Black Marlin
Topping our list of the fastest fish in the world is the Black Marlin, with a jaw-dropping speed of 82mph (132kph). Native to the Indo-Pacific oceans, this fascinating creature is the epitome of speed and agility underwater. Its streamlined body and powerful tail enable it to reach such high speeds, making it the Usain Bolt of the aquatic world.
(image courtesy of Flickr)
Why So Fast?
The Black Marlin’s speed isn’t just for show. This skill serves a practical purpose: hunting. Speed is essential for the Black Marlin to chase down its primary diet of smaller fish and cephalopods. Moreover, the speed provides an edge against predators, making it a challenging target for sharks and other large ocean dwellers.
Where Can You Find Them?
If you are thinking of taking a marlin fishing trip then you’ll need to know that the Black Marlin primarily frequents the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, particularly around Australia and the Philippines.
Australia
In Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is renowned as one of the premier Black Marlin fishing locations in the world. Specifically, Cairns and Lizard Island offer some of the most fertile grounds for these fast swimmers. The optimal time to go fishing here is during the Australian spring and early summer, from September to December. These months coincide with the Black Marlin’s spawning season, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Philippines
In the Philippines, you’ll want to set your sights on the waters around Batangas and Palawan. These regions offer rich fishing grounds for the Black Marlin and several other species. The best time to fish in the Philippines is slightly more extensive, ranging from March to October. During these months, the waters are calmer, making it easier to spot and catch this incredible fish.
blue or white marlin?
Blue Marlin and White Marlin are members of the same family, however they are not quite as fast as the Black Marlin. Blue Marlin clock in around 50-60mph (80-97kph) and White Marlin slightly slower at 40-50mph (64-80kph). Whilst these impressive speeds are enough to put them in the top 5 fastest fish in their own right we have decided to exclude them from the list due to their similarities with the Black Marlin.
Notable Contenders
The Black Marlin may hold the title for the fastest fish in the world but there are several other species that deserve a mention:
Swordfish: The Close Competitor
With a speed of 60mph (97kph), the Swordfish is another high-speed marvel of the ocean. Like the Black Marlin, it too has a streamlined body built for speed. Swordfish are found in both the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Oceans, and they use their speed primarily for hunting.
Yellowfin Tuna: The Durable Racer
Although not as fast as the Black Marlin or Swordfish, the Yellowfin Tuna boasts a respectable speed of 47mph (76kph). What sets this fish apart is its incredible stamina, capable of maintaining high speeds for extended periods. They are commonly found in the tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide.
Mako Shark: The Speedy Predator
Yes, sharks are fish too! The Mako Shark is the fastest shark species, reaching speeds up to 46mph (74kph). While not as quick as the Black Marlin, their speed coupled with their ferocious nature makes them one of the top predators in the ocean.
Top 10 Fastest Fish in the World
To summarize, here’s a quick rundown of the top 10 fastest fish and where you can find them:
- Black Marlin – 82mph (132kph) – Indo-Pacific
- Swordfish – 60mph (97kph) – Atlantic and Indo-Pacific
- Sailfish – 68mph (110kph) – Atlantic and Indo-Pacific
- Yellowfin Tuna – 47mph (76kph) – Global
- Mako Shark – 46mph (74kph) – Global
- Blue Shark – 43mph (69kph) – Global
- Bonefish – 40mph (64kph) – Tropical Waters
- Dorado – 36mph (58kph) – Global
- Wahoo – 35mph (56kph) – Tropical Waters
- Tarpon – 35mph (56kph) – Atlantic
For comparison you might be wondering how fast is a carp, a roach, or maybe a bass?
- Largemouth Bass: 12mph (19kph)
- Carp: 5mph (8kph)
- Roach: 2-3mph (3-5kph)
While they may not be competing for the title of the “fastest fish in the world,” anytime soon many of us still enjoy the regular battles they provide.
In Summary
The underwater world is home to some of the most incredible speedsters on the planet. From the awe-inspiring Black Marlin to the durable Yellowfin Tuna, these fast fish are truly marvels of nature. So the next time you’re near an ocean, take a moment to appreciate the incredible speed and agility happening right below the surface. Because when it comes to the fastest fish in the world, the race is always on!
If the allure of the Black Marlin has piqued your interest, you won’t want to miss our post on what to expect on a marlin fishing trip.