Hebi (Shortbill Spearfish)
- Customer pickup,
- Courier
- In detail
I. Biological Description
Hebi (Tetrapturus angustirostris) is commonly known as shortbill spearfish. Its dorsal fin is shorter than that of other billfish species, and its bill is almost nonexistent. Hebi caught in Hawaiian waters are usually between 20 and 40 pounds in round weight.
II. Of Special Interest For Buying/Distributing
Availability and Seasonality: Commercial landings of hebi have increased in Hawaii in proportion to the expansion of the longline fleet. Although available year-round, the peak in landings occurs during the summer and fall (June-October).
Fishing Methods: Most of the hebi catch in Hawaii is harvested by commercial longline boats which set hooks in deep water. However, spearfish may strike at surface lures, and a few are landed by trollers.
Distribution: The longline catch of hebi is marketed fresh primarily through the Honolulu fish auction.
Substitution: Hebi is one of several species of billfish which are inter-changed or substituted for tuna as broiled "catch of the day" menu items in up-scale restaurants.