Originally, considered a harmful pest that attacked cultivated fish stocks, they became the centerpiece of a thriving sport fishing industry on the planet. From there, they were exported to worlds with temperate saltwater oceans across the Inner Sphere.
They can grow up to a length of 4 meters long, their bodies are covered in scales and they have a lamprey-like mouth. The fish feeds by attaching its mouth to its prey, then sucking the bodily fluids out of the unfortunate victim. Normally, the Hodson's Flier feeds on other large marine animals, but it has been known to attack and kill unwary fishermen and swimmers. Even with proper fishing equipment, catching a Hodson's Flier can be a dangerous task.
The origin of the creature's name can be traced to its ability to propel itself out of the water up to an altitude of 10 meters. The animal can then glide above the surface of the water as if it were flying.
- MechWarrior Companion, p. 80, "Creatures"