![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-01-1.jpg)
The opportunity to catch a sailfish draws hordes of South Florida fishermen to the edge of the reef each winter.
![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-02-1.jpg)
Make the most of your position by spreading your baits out, both on and below the surface. By fishing a wide spread of baits, you’ll increase the odds of attracting a cruising fish.
![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-03-1.jpg)
When sailfish are on the move they show preferences for specific depth highways because of a thermal edge, current flow, bait concentrations or a combination of the three.
![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-04-1.jpg)
A bridled bait swims more naturally than does a bait with the hook embedded somewhere in its body.
![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-05-1.jpg)
With lighter leaders, loosen the drag a bit and try to get to the fish as soon as you can.
![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-06-1.jpg)
Sailfish are an ideal light-tackle fish, with 20-pound-class tackle a sporty choice, and 30-pound the norm.
![sailfish in Florida](https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/uploads/2021/09/top-tips-sailfish-07-1.jpg)
Light tackle and light fluorocarbon leaders do the trick on sailfish. Experiment with hook and leader sizes to maximize bites.