If you’ve arrived at this page, it’s likely that you’re in need of some assistance with **[Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands)**, *The New York Times*’ elegant interpretation of the classic word-search puzzle.
**Strands** presents a distinct variation on standard word searches. You form words by linking letters in any direction — whether up, down, left, right, or diagonally — and they can switch direction, resulting in complex shapes and patterns. The key challenge? Every letter within the grid is a part of a solution. Each puzzle is centered around a specific theme, and a “spangram” is invariably included — a unique word or phrase that embodies the day’s theme and extends across the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.
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### **SEE ALSO:**
**[Play Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)**
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In contrast to other well-known NYT games such as **[Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle)** or **[Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections)**, Strands does not offer a word list, making it a more demanding and time-consuming puzzle. If you’re pressed for time or feeling overwhelmed, we’ve compiled all the hints you require to approach today’s puzzle at your convenience.
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### **SEE ALSO:**
**[Wordle Today: Answer, hints for January 9](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-january-9-2025)**
**[NYT Connections Today: Clues, answers for January 9](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-january-9-2025)**
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### **Today’s NYT Strands Theme Hint: Off the Hook!**
The terms in today’s puzzle all relate to different types of fish.
### **Today’s Theme Clarification**
The words signify items you might catch with a fishing hook.
### **Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?**
This time, the spangram is placed horizontally.
### **Today’s Spangram Answer**
The spangram is **TunaFamily**.
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### **NYT Strands Word List for January 9**
Here are the solutions for today’s puzzle:
– **Bluefin**
– **Bigeye**
– **Yellowfin**
– **Albacore**
– **SkipJack**
– **TunaFamily**
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### **Featured Video For You**
**Strands 101: Tips to Master NYT’s Latest Word Game**
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Hunting for more daily games? Visit **[Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games)** for hints, strategies, and a diverse array of puzzles to keep you engaged. Whether it’s **[Mahjong or Sudoku](https://games.mashable.com/)** or free crosswords, there’s something for everyone.
If you missed yesterday’s Strands puzzle, **[here’s the solution for January 8](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-8-2025)**.