Species guide

How to catch King threadfin

Polydactylus macrochir

Stylized 2D illustration of King threadfin
freshwaterbrackishsaltwatergame fishPolynemidae

King threadfin is a large, powerful fish found in coastal waters and estuaries. Known for their long pectoral filaments, they are prized game fish prized for their strength and size. Adults often travel long distances along the coastline and may hunt alone or in small groups.

Where they live

Found in shallow coastal waters up to 6 meters deep, king threadfin inhabit freshwater, brackish, and saltwater environments across Asia, Oceania, the Pacific, and Indian Ocean regions. They commonly form schools but larger fish may move solo or in pairs along the coast.

Typical size

Up to about 170 cm

What they eat

  • ponyfish
  • jewfish
  • whiting
  • blue swimmer crab
  • mantis shrimp

Best baits

  • live baitfish
  • prawns
  • crabs
  • squid

Best lures

  • surface poppers
  • soft plastic paddletails
  • jigs
  • metal spoons

How to fish for them

  • casting surface lures
  • bottom fishing with bait
  • trolling along coastline

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How to catch King threadfin | Bobbr