Habitat
Atlantic cutlassfish (ribbonfish) (Trichiurus lepturus). Lighted piers, jetties, and channels.
Where to start
The source places this species in jetty or pier, bay settings. May-Jun juveniles, present all year The source supports this as South Padre, Lower Laguna Madre, or nearby Gulf planning context. Treat the seasonal note as context, not a promise of a catch, open access or a particular day on the water.
Approach and bait
The inventory notes night catches around lighted structure; it is also used as cut bait for king mackerel.
The source names Cutlassfish can be used as king-mackerel bait where current rules allow. as gear or bait context. Confirm the current rules before using it.
Handling
Identify the catch and check the current authority rule before retaining it.
Sources and current rules
This guide draws on a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department source. Identify the animal before retention or collection, then check the current rules for the water and trip.