Todak, Hound needlefish or Long Tom
(Tylosurus crocodilus)
Distribution and biology
Found in South Africa coastal and off-shore waters, the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf to India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia.
A pelagic carnivorous species that feeds mainly on small fishes. Occasionally leaps out of water and skitters at the surface.
Size / Weight
Max length: 150 cm (1.5 meters or 4 feet 11 inches)
Max. published weight: 6kg (13 pounds)
Source
At Kuala Rompin, the garfish can be a nuisance when they steal baits intended for sailfish. I have caught a few good sized garfish on jigs and they are a lot of fun on light tackle of PE1 – PE2. They do however, run out of steam after the first or second run.
Two other similar species found in Malaysia waters are:
- Flat Needlefish / Jolong-jolong, Todak (Ablennes hians)
- Spotted Needlefish / Jolong-jolong, Todak (Strongylura strongylura)
What’s the difference between long Tom and hound fish are they the same type of fish
Hey Mark, I’m no marine biologist but they are the same to me. Although they may be of two different species from the same family.