BEGIN WITH BAIT

• Take a moment to consider—the halfbeaks—there are eight different species inhabiting the warm tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans of the world. Scientifically, they are most closely related to three other species: needlefish, flying fish and sauries. Studies of the commercial ballyhoo fishery in the Florida Keys have shown that, despite increased fishing pressure, the stocks of this important baitfish remain remarkably stable. Good news for all those who begin their days with bait.