Rainbow Runner
One of the most colorful fish in Cabo waters. Rainbow Runner are fast, beautiful, and a favorite target for fly anglers and light-tackle enthusiasts.
Overview
Rainbow Runner (Elagatis bipinnulata) are among the most beautiful fish in Los Cabos waters. Their name comes from the brilliant iridescent stripes (blue, green, yellow, and silver) that run the length of their body. They're fast, acrobatic, and a joy to catch on light tackle.
In Los Cabos, Rainbow Runner are most common in summer and fall when water temperatures are warm. They're often found near the surface around floating debris, sargasso weed lines, and temperature breaks, similar habitat to Dorado. They're relatively small compared to the marlin and tuna that get most of the attention, but their speed and beauty make them a treasured catch.
Physical Characteristics
Rainbow Runner have a streamlined, fusiform body with a forked tail. Their most striking feature is the pair of brilliant iridescent stripes running from snout to tail, typically electric blue and yellow-green.
They're the only member of the genus Elagatis. Despite the name "Runner," they're actually a member of the jack family (Carangidae), closely related to amberjack.
Best Seasons
Rainbow Runner are most common in Los Cabos from June through November. They prefer warm water above 78°F and are often found in association with floating debris, sargasso weed mats, and flotsam. They school in small groups and can be caught while trolling for dorado and tuna. Summer and early fall offer the best opportunities.
Hot Spots
Gordo Banks
5-10 mi SE. Productive for Rainbow Runner around weed lines.
Iman Bank
12 mi E. Surface debris holds Rainbow Runner in summer.
Cabo Falso
1-5 mi S. Close to shore, often found near floating debris.
Pacific Side
Weed lines along the Pacific coast hold Rainbow Runner in summer.
Best Techniques
Table Fare
Rainbow Runner is good eating: the meat is firm, white, and mild with a medium texture. It's best prepared fresh, grilled or pan-seared. The colorful skin makes for a beautiful presentation. Rainbow Runner is also excellent in ceviche. Because they're relatively small, one or two fish make a good meal for one person.
Conservation
Note
Catch the Rainbow
Book a charter and add this colorful beauty to your catch list.
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