Can you identify this mystery fish found on an old postcard?

(Click on image to see full size version)

Is there a Cryptomundo reader out there that can help?

The men in the picture look like military servicemen. The surroundings look like this photograph was taken on a beach or island. The fish appears to be about six feet long (notice the yard or meter stick lying next to it). But where are the fins on this cryptid (or even a tail)? What is it?

Send in a comment if you know what this cryptid fish might be.

Added note: There is nothing on the back of this postcard, except it should be noted that the “Place Stamp Here” box is formed by the letters AZO, which according to the comments below date this card. All the AZO triangles are pointing upward, thus indicating a date for this postcard of 1904-18. It was contributed by a reader (Ms. Phyllis Mancz of Ohio) of Loren’s Cryptozoo News blog at Cryptomundo.

See also “Name the Mystery Fish Continued”.

(Click on image to see full size version, enhanced by shockbeton)