The Wahoo possesses a distinct and mesmerizing appearance. With its elongated body and shimmering, iridescent blue back, complemented by silvery sides adorned with irregular vertical blue bars, it truly stands out among its marine counterparts. However, it is important to note that these vibrant colors quickly fade after the fish's demise. What truly sets the Wahoo apart are its razor-sharp teeth, lending it a fierce and formidable visage. Both the upper and lower jaws exhibit a sharper appearance compared to other mackerel species such as the king or Spanish mackerel.
The Wahoo's size can be quite impressive, with specimens recorded at up to 2.5 meters (8 ft 2 in) in length and weighing as much as 83 kilograms (183 lb). This species exhibits rapid growth, adding to its allure. Renowned for their speed, Wahoo are considered among the fastest fish in the sea, a characteristic that contributes to their status as a highly sought-after game fish.
Differentiating the Wahoo from its close relatives, such as the Atlantic king mackerel and the Indo-Pacific narrow-barred Spanish mackerel, requires a keen eye. A notable feature is the fold of skin that covers the Wahoo's mandible when its mouth is closed, a characteristic absent in the king mackerel. This distinguishing trait is also observed in the smaller Spanish mackerel and Cero mackerel. While the Wahoo's teeth resemble those of the king mackerel, they are comparatively shorter and more closely spaced.
To avoid confusion with other species like the barracuda, it is essential to note the distinct characteristics of the Wahoo. Barracuda possess prominent scales, larger dagger-like teeth, and lack the caudal keels and blade-like (forked) tail typical of the scombrids.
The Wahoo boasts a circumtropical distribution and can be found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Recent population genomic research utilizing RAD sequencing suggests the presence of two weakly differentiated fish stocks—one in the Atlantic Ocean and the other in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. These stocks likely exhibit a considerable degree of migration and gene flow, connecting these geographically distinct populations.
The Wahoo's life cycle begins with buoyant eggs, which give rise to pelagic larvae. As adults, Wahoo tend to exhibit solitary behavior or form loose-knit groups consisting of two or three fish. In favorable conditions, schools of 100 or more Wahoo can be observed.
The Wahoo's diet primarily consists of other fish and squid. A study conducted in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) revealed that Wahoo consume approximately 84.64% native fish, 14.26% cephalopods (such as cuttlefish), and 1.1% crustaceans. In terms of gender distribution, females outnumber males, a trend commonly observed among pelagic marine species.
Interestingly, it has been noted that most Wahoo captured possess a trematode parasite known as the giant stomach worm (Hirudinella ventricosa) in their stomachs. Despite its presence, this parasite does not appear to inflict harm upon the fish.
The Wahoo's exquisite white and/or grey flesh, delicate to dense in texture, is highly regarded by various cuisines. Its taste has been compared to that of mackerel, adding to its appeal as a premium-priced commercial food fish. Artisanal commercial fishermen in regions such as Hawaii, Bermuda, and the Caribbean cater to local demand for Wahoo, primarily employing trolling techniques.
While heavy commercial and sport-fishing pressure can impact local Wahoo populations, this species is relatively less susceptible to industrial commercial fishing when compared to more tightly schooling and abundant species like tuna. Wahoo are occasionally caught as bycatch in various commercial fisheries, including longline fisheries targeting tuna, billfish, and dolphinfish (mahi-mahi or dorado). Additionally, they are encountered in tuna purse seine fisheries, especially in sets made around floating objects that attract a diverse range of marine life. Notably, the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council implemented a Dolphin Wahoo Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic in 2003, aiming to maintain sustainable fishing practices. As a whole, the Wahoo population remains stable, and the species is not currently considered overfished.
Across many regions, the Wahoo holds a prestigious status as a prized catch among recreational anglers. Its impressive size and availability in proximity to land make it an enticing target for fishing enthusiasts. The Wahoo's incredible speed and strength, particularly evident during its initial run, have garnered acclaim within sport-fishing circles. Interestingly, some recreational sports fishermen choose to sell their catch, contributing to the species' economic significance.
In the Gulf of Mexico, Wahoo are successfully fished using live bait around deep-water oil and gas platforms, especially during winter.