Top-Rated 6-Hour Private Fishing Adventure

Black Marlin

Black Marlin (Istiompax indica) Fish Description

The Black Marlin (Istiompax indica) is a member of the Istiophoridae fish species. Much like its closest relative, the Blue Marlin, the black variant has that long, sword-like bill and a streamlined body. They both have a fan-like dorsal fin that extends from the top of the head to the tail base. They both also have a two-tone body coloration—dark on the top and silvery white on the lower part. 

The difference between the two marlins begins at their size with the Black Marlin having more girth and length than the blue ones. The Black also has a darker blue to black color (hence the name) above the lateral line as compared to the Blue’s lighter blue tones. The Black doesn’t have those distinct white stripes along the body that the Blue ones usually have. Moreover, the Blacks are sometimes called short-nosed swordfish because their bills are a bit shorter compared to the Blues’. 

As for their swimming speeds, the Black Marlin is “a little bit slower” than the Blues. Not only because it is much bulkier and less streamlined than Blues, but because its pectoral fins are fixed and rigid and unable to fold against its body, thus, contributing to the drag. Just a reminder, though, that we’re emphasizing the “little bit slower than the Blues” part because it’s still known as one of the fastest swimmers in the ocean, clocking up to eighty miles per hour at full speed. 

But what the Black “lacks” in speed, it certainly makes up in power. Black Marlins are known to be one of the hardest gamefish to land because of their brute strength and aggressive behavior. In fact, fishing for Blacks is often quite dangerous as they’re known to be tough fighters when hooked—attacking both boat and anglers by trying to impale them with their long bill.

Interesting Facts About Black Marlins

• The biggest Black Marlin ever caught measured fourteen feet in length and weighed a whopping one thousand five hundred and sixty pounds.
• The world record fish was caught by angler Alfred Glassell Jr. at Cabo Blanco, Peru in 1953.
• They’re one of the largest in the Istiophoridae family.
• Females are mostly a little bit bigger than males.
• Because of some similarities, Black marlins are often confused with their cousins, the Blue Marlins.
• They are migratory and can travel hundreds or even thousands of miles across the ocean.
• They can reach amazing speeds of up to eighty miles per hour.
• They are carnivorous and mostly prey on squids, scads, mackerel, cuttlefishes, octopuses, and other small fish.
• They have been known to attack boats and other floating things in the ocean with their long bills.
• Their speed and strength make them one of the toughest gamefish to catch.
• They are one of the most sought after gamefish for sport fishers looking for a challenge.

Black Marlins Average Size and Swimming Speed

Although they can reach lengths of up to fourteen feet, average sizes tend to be within eleven feet, weighing around two hundred to four hundred pounds. They are also known to be one of the fastest swimmers in the ocean, with top speeds (often in short bursts) of up to eighty miles per hour. Average speeds, however, were clocked between twenty and fifty miles per hour.

Where to Find Them - Habitat and Distribution

The Black Marlin is typically found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It usually swims in the open sea near the surface. However, unlike their Blue cousins that usually stay in the open seas, the Blacks sometimes wander closer to the shore, especially when the waters are warm within reefs and near the islands.

Although there are some sightings of Black Marlins in US waters, particularly near the southernmost part of the west coast, they are quite rare. If you’re targeting this highly-prized gamefish on your next fishing adventure, you may want to try your luck in countries where they are most abundant, namely: in The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, in the waters of Central America from Panama, Costa Rica, to Peru, in the waters between Mozambique and Madagascar in Africa, as well as in the Indian Ocean near the shores of Sri Lanka and India.  

Black Marlin Fishing Tips

Black Marlins are known to be speedsters and brutes and they tend to stay in the open seas. So you’re going to need a boat and a piece of sturdy equipment. If you’re planning on chartering, make sure that, aside from the boat equipped with the appropriate tackle, the captain or your guide will be familiar with the local Black Marlin fishing spots. If you’re going to be bringing your own gear, we highly suggest a heavy trolling outfit tough enough to handle these oceanic brutes. Live baits—particularly small tunas, bonito, and other forage fish bridled to a large hook—are often effective enticements to get the fish to bite. You may also need to employ a bit of slow trolling around drop-offs and reef edges. Also, stay away from the Marlin’s long bill while you’re trying to land the fish as it can cause serious damage. Lastly, make sure that you’re 100% fit before you attempt to catch this monster of a fish as you’re going to be in for a long and exhausting battle once you hook one.

Blackfin Tuna

Blackfin Tuna (Thunnus atlanticus) Fish Description

Also known as Deep-Bodied Tunny, Albacore, or Bonite Nore in French, the Blackfin Tuna is the smallest tuna in the Thunnus genus. This fish has an oval-shaped body colored black with some faded yellow near the finlets and on the sides. 

Sometimes, the Blackfin Tuna’s sides can be bluish-black, whereas its belly is white. It possesses a vast, brown stripe along the portion of its eye. It has an eye-catching lateral band colored yellow or gold which fades upon its death. Its silvery abdomen has some vertical rows embedded with pale dots. 

Another feature that adds to the Blackfin Tuna’s beauty are the bronze reflections on its dusky dorsal finlets.

Diet and Size

In general, Blackfin Tuna reaches up to 39 inches in length and up to 46 lb in weight. On the other hand, it falls prey to Skipjack Tuna, Blue Marlin, and Dolphinfish.

Blackfin Tuna love mesopelagic and epipelagic meals alike. They feast on squid and fish primarily, but they also like the larvae of decapods, stomatopods, amphipods, and crustaceans especially crabs and shrimps.

Interesting Facts About the Blackfin Tuna

• A five-year-old Blackfin Tuna is already considered old since this species grows fast and typically lives for a very short period of time.
• Greenpeace International added many tuna species under its seafood red list; fortunately, Blackfin Tuna were not added to it.
• The Blackfin Tuna is a migratory species that creates big schools along with Skipjack Tuna.
• Blackfin Tuna transfer to more temperate waters during summer; this species has a limited range in the US.
• Despite its wide array of food choices, Blackfin Tuna can be cannibalistic.
• The Blackfin Tuna can host many parasites including copepods, gillworms, tapeworms, and flukes.
• Its genus name Thunnus is Greek for “tuna”.

Blackfin Tuna — Fishing Techniques

The Blackfin Tuna is listed as one of the most important species for both commercial and recreational fisheries. Anglers love to catch them because they are noted for being fierce fighters. Moreover, their flesh is superbly tasty; they are usually marketed fresh then processed and canned.

Some of the most common methods used to catch them are drift fishing, and trolling. You can also try capturing them using live bait and poles. According to the most seasoned anglers, what works best in hauling Blackfin Tuna are vertical jigging and chunking. Make sure to scale down your leader and hooks; this is because Blackfin Tuna have sharp eyesight.

Apart from using #30 fluorocarbons for leaders, you should also have a 5/0 to 6/0 size circle hook. Note that you can lure Blackfin Tuna into your boat by using some live chum particularly pilchards.

Blackfin Tuna Habitat and Distribution

Most of the Blackfin Tuna population is concentrated in the Gulf of Mexico to Rio de Janeiro, the Caribbean Sea, and Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts.  They prefer swimming in warm waters over 68 °F. 

Blackfin Tuna usually occur in oceanic waters near the coastline. They usually inhabit the areas near the continental shelves. They are at their peak during autumn, winter, and spring in Florida Keys.

Blue Marlin

Blue Marlin (Makaira nigricans) Fish Description

The Blue Marlin may look slightly similar to the White Marlin but there are clear cut differences. The first most noticeable difference would be the dorsal fin wherein the Blue Marlin’s never exceeds the maximum body depth. Another difference for the Blue Marlin is its pectoral fins which are foldable. Unlike the others, the Blue Marlin also has a cylindrical body. 

The Blue Marlin also has a dark cobalt dorsal side which slowly blends with the silvery-white underbelly. It also has several bars that are cobalt and pale-colored that decorate the rest of its body. Blue Marlins also have the ability to change their skin color. Their bodies, like other billfish, are covered by iridophores which allow them to reflect the light to change the color of their skin. 

As a billfish, Blue Marlins have a long spear-like snout which serves as their weapon for finding more fish. 
 

Blue Marlin Diet

Young Blue Marlin eat zooplankton but can sometimes eat fish eggs that drift by. However, as they grow older, Blue Marlins start feeding on larger fish. They eat Mackerel, Bullet Tuna and, Skipjack Tuna which serve as a big portion of their diet. Once Blue Marlins reach an optimum size, they are also reported to hunt down Yellowfin Tuna and Big Eye Tuna. 
 

Blue Marlin Size

Interestingly, female Blue Marlins are four times bigger than male Blue Marlin. Female Blue Marlins can weigh 1190 to 1810 lbs and can reach a maximum length of 16 ft. Male Blue Marlins rarely exceed 350 lbs.
 

Interesting Facts about the Blue Marlin

• Blue Marlins are considered the biggest among all the Billfish species.
• Blue Marlins caught past 1000 lbs are called granders.
• In terms of lifespan, female Blue Marlins live longer than males. Female Blue Marlins can live up to 27 years while males only live up to 18 years.
• When they reach maturity, they become less of a target. However, the Blue Marlins can still be hunted down by the Great White Shark.
• Blue Marlins are migratory fish.
  • Their path usually leads them to move tangent to the equator.
• Some people are afraid of eating Blue Marlin due to the high levels of Mercury in its meat.
   

Blue Marlin – Fishing Techniques: How to Fish for a Blue Marlin

Because they’re bigger, Blue Marlins are more prone to fatigue. However, Blue Marlins are known for their amazing acrobatics, their aggressive fighting spirits, and their powerful attacks.

Since they have a preference for warmer waters, Blue Marlins are best found near Hawaii, Panama, or Mexico. Depending on where you are, sometimes – Blue Marlins can be fished all year round being accompanied by their Black cousin. However, the size of the Blue Marlin will depend on your area.

As for the lure, there are a variety of lures you can use via trolling. In Kona, Hawaii, they developed a way on how to troll the Blue Marlin with an artificial lure. But that doesn’t mean live bait isn’t useful. As an apex predator, Blue Marlins love it if their prey puts up a fight.

For your equipment, make sure it's high, industrial grade. These are powerful, heavy fish. They can break your equipment if you’re not careful.
 

Blue Marlin Habitat and Distribution

Blue Marlin are migratory fish so you’ll have to run along the equator to find them. They’re usually found swimming across the waters running along the equator. They usually lurk in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans especially when the waters are warmer. However, Blue Marlins seem to be available near the Gulf of Mexico all year round. Some also say that Blue Marlins are best caught in Kona, Hawaii.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) Fish Description

The Mahi Mahi or common dolphinfish, also known as the dorado, are distinctive because of the play of colors on their bodies. Their sides are golden, with splotches of bright blue and green on the back and sides, and pectoral fins a shimmering blue, and underwater they can boast a myriad of other colors depending on where the light hits. However, once taken out of the water, they change colors drastically like a light show, before finally fading to a silver or muted yellow-grey upon demise.

The head of this fish species is also quite distinct. It is characterized by a single dorsal fin that extends from the head to the tail or caudal fin. Male Mahi Mahi have a protruding head, while the female head looks a little more rounded.

The Mahi Mahi or common dolphinfish belong to the family Coryphaenidae, with the other one being the pompano dolphinfish. The juvenile common dolphinfish are often mistaken for the pompano as the latter are quite small. One way to distinguish them is to look at the pectoral fins. The pectoral fins of the common dolphinfish are longer compared to that of the pompano. They also differ in color once out of the water. The common dolphinfish will look a little more yellow, while the pompano will sport a more prominent silver.

Why are Mahi Mahi called Dolphin Fish?

The confusion over the name Mahi Mahi started in Hawaii. The answer to why lies in the history of the Hawaiian Islands where this fish species was first discovered. In Hawaii, mahi mahi means very strong or strong-strong and fisherman referred to the fish as Mahi Mahi. That phrase caught on and the fish went from Mahi to Mahi Mahi and sometimes spelt Mahi-Mahi. It is also referred to as "dorado," However, when mahi-mahi made its way to the US mainland, it was commonly referred to as "dolphin fish." This led to confusion among consumers who thought they were buying or eating meat from actual dolphins.

There are a couple of local stories as to how that happened. It is believed that early American fishermen visiting Hawaii heard locals referring to the fish as "mahi-mahi," mistook it for a reference to dolphins and started calling it "dolphin fish." A second theory suggests that mahi-mahi's long dorsal fin may be responsible for its common name. But the Mahi Mahi, Dophinfish, Dorado is not related to Dolphins in any way. 

Why are Mahi Mahi called Dorado?

Mahi Mahi are also known as Dorado, which means golden in Spanish. This name is derived from their distinctive golden-yellow coloration, which is most prominent when the fish is removed from the water. When they are in the water, their coloration is more blue and green. The name Dorado is commonly used in Latin America, occasionally in Hawaii and is also used in other parts of the world where Spanish is spoken.

Is Mahi Mahi Good to Eat?

This fish is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world and has become popular due to its mild taste and firm texture. But the question remains - is mahi mahi a good fish to eat? Yes, Mahi-Mahi is a popular food to eat, especially in coastal regions where it is readily available. It is a firm, white-fleshed fish that has a mild, sweet flavor, which makes it appealing to a wide range of tastes. It is also a versatile fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilled, baked, fried, or broiled. In many parts of the world, Mahi-Mahi is used as a substitute for other popular fish species such as tuna or swordfish. It is a healthy fish that is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other important nutrients. Overall, Mahi-Mahi is a popular and delicious fish that is enjoyed by many people around the world.

When it comes to taste, many people enjoy mahi mahi because it has a mild flavor that isn't too overpowering. Its flesh is typically white with pinkish hues and has a slightly sweet taste compared to other types of fish. When prepared properly, it can be a flavorful and satisfying meal. Some people describe its flavor as being similar to that of swordfish or tuna, but with a slightly milder flavor profile. The versatility of Mahi-Mahi also makes it a popular choice for a range of cuisines, from Caribbean to Asian. Overall, if you enjoy seafood, there is a good chance you will find Mahi-Mahi to be a tasty and enjoyable fish to eat.

Mahi Mahi Size and Diet

The Mahi Mahi or common dolphinfish do not live long, with some reaching five years but rarely exceeding four. They, however, spawn all year long and mature quite quickly, making their population quite strong and stable. The average size for the Mahi-Mahi is 39 inches, weighing from 15 to 29 pounds. The Mahi-Mahi world record is 87 pounds.

The Mahi Mahi are carnivorous and are known as great swimmers, making them fantastic predators. They are not very particular with what they eat, though they do adapt as they mature. The juveniles of this fish species feed on crustaceans, while the adults focus on bony fishes. They are quite partial to the flying fish. They feed mostly during the day.

Interesting Facts About the Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

• This fish species mature quickly at three to four months. They practice broadcast spawning, a reproductive behavior wherein both females and males release their respective eggs and sperms into the same water column. This practice apparently guarantees a better chance of fertilization.
• Female Mahi Mahi spawn two to three times annually. In their lifetime, they can produce millions of eggs.
• Big consumers of this fish species: the United States and the Caribbean. The Japanese, Hawaiian, and Australian markets are also significant.
• If you're catching a Mahi-Mahi to eat, make sure to store it with lots of ice before you clean it. This serves two purposes: it keeps your fish fresh, and it makes cleaning much easier.
• The flesh of the Mahi-Mahi is similar to that of the swordfish. It tastes best pan-fried, grilled, roasted, or simmered in sauce. Because its flesh is firm, it is also good to cook it over wood or coal.
• The Mahi-Mahi is also has a small instance of ciguatera poisoning, which is caused when the toxins from Gambierdiscus toxicus are consumed by the fish accidentally and grow in their bodies through time.

Fishing Technique: How to Catch Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish 

The common dolphinfish are prized both as game fish and as commercial species. Anglers love fishing for them because they are quite stunning to look at and can also make great food.

When fishing for the common dolphinfish, one should look for an area that has a lot of floating debris by the edge of the reef, as this fish species are attracted to such. Also, anglers should keep a look out for frigate birds trolling any floating debris as they can take you to some big catch.

This fish species can be caught with trolling near weedlines, floating debris, and currents. If you choose to do so, make sure you employ the use of 30- to 50-pound class rods and reels. With trolling, you can use live bait (ballyhoo or squid are most recommended) or artificial lures. Make the bait skip on the surface of the water to excite the common dolphinfish (they love a good flying fish for their meal, after all).

The common dolphinfish are quite strong swimmers and are quite hard to reel in, so anglers will do well with an equally strong tackle, and perhaps another one for back-up just in case the one you're using breaks off while you're reeling this strong fish in.

Is a Mahi Mahi a Tuna?

No, Mahi-Mahi, also known as dolphin fish, is not a type of tuna. Mahi-Mahi is a species of fish in the Coryphaenidae family, while tuna belongs to the Scombridae family. Although both Mahi-Mahi and tuna are popular fish to eat, they have different characteristics and are not closely related. Mahi-Mahi has a mild and sweet flavor with a firm texture, while tuna has a more robust and meaty flavor with a soft and flaky texture. Additionally, Mahi-Mahi is typically found in warmer waters, while tuna can be found in a wider range of habitats.

Why is Mahi Mahi called Dolphin?

There has been some confusion regarding whether or not mahi mahi is a dolphin. Mahi-Mahi is sometimes referred to as a dolphin or more likely, a dolphin fish, because of its similar appearance to the mammal dolphin. While both species share similar physical characteristics such as their long dorsal fins and bright colors, they are distinctly different animals. Mahi mahi belongs to the Coryphaenidae family of fish, while dolphins belong to the Delphinidae family of mammals. However, it's important to note that Mahi-Mahi is not related to dolphins in any way. 

It's important to clarify this misconception because many people avoid eating mahi mahi due to their belief that it's related to dolphins. In reality, consuming responsibly sourced and properly prepared mahi mahi can be a healthy and sustainable choice for seafood lovers.

Is Mahi Mahi Safe to Eat? 

When it comes to questions about its safety as a food source, many people are left wondering whether it's safe to eat or not. In general, mahi-mahi is considered safe to consume, but there are some risks associated with eating this fish that must be taken into account. 
One of the main concerns regarding mahi-mahi consumption is the risk of ciguatera. Ciguatera is a type of food poisoning caused by eating fish that have consumed toxic algae. Mahi-mahi can be a carrier of this toxin if they have eaten smaller reef fish that were contaminated with ciguatoxins. Symptoms of ciguatera include vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms such as tingling sensations in the fingers and toes. While ciguatera is most commonly associated with reef fish such as barracuda and snapper, it can also affect pelagic species like mahi mahi.

Where do Mahi Mahi Live? Habitat and Distribution

This surface-dwelling fish species are typically found under floating objects. Sometimes those floating objects are floating sargassum, and sometimes they can even be ships.

The common dolphinfish are found worldwide in warm and temperate waters, distributed along the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They occur in both the western parts (particularly the Sea of Japan, around the Philippine Islands, and Taiwan) and eastern parts (from the Oregon and Californian coasts to Peru) of the Pacific Ocean. In the warmer waters of Southern California, their population is quite abundant, particularly in Newport Beach San Diego, Long Beach, and Dana Point. In the Atlantic coast, they are found in Florida, particularly Miami, West Palm Beach, and the Keys.

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo (Acanthocybium Solandri) Fish Description

The wahoo has a slender, elongated body covered with small scales. It has a shimmering blue back that may appear green from above and has silvery sides with zebra-like blue stripes or bars. Its underside is silvery-white.

It has a beak-like snout, large mouth, and sharp serrated teeth. The wahoo has a fold of skin that covers its jaw when the mouth is closed which differentiates it from the Spanish mackerel and Atlantic mackerel. 

It has 2 dorsal fins that trail off into 8-9 finlets, leading to a forked caudal fin. The anal fin is aligned below the second dorsal fin and has 9 finlets. Its lateral line stretches across its entire body and curves under the first dorsal fin. 

Spawning

The Wahoo reproduces through broadcast spawning, where females release eggs simultaneously that males discharge sperm. This increases the chances of fertilization and lessens the odds of the eggs being consumed. Adults reproduce multiple times within the year-round spawning season, usually near Florida and the Caribbean. Females can produce several million eggs a year, and this high reproductive rate and accelerated growth have kept this fish safe from overfishing. 

Size and Speed

The Wahoo grows fast and is generally 3 to 5 feet, but has been documented at 8 feet 2 inches. The IGFA All-Tackle world record is at 184 lb caught in Mexico in 2005. 

It’s one of the fastest fish with an average speed of 48 mph and a top speed of up to 60 mph. Their spindle-shaped body and endurance make them successful hunters. 

Interesting facts about the Wahoo

• Ono, another name for the Wahoo, means “good to eat” or “delicious” in Hawaiian
• Its colors fade immediately upon death
• It is unable to regulate its body temperature
• It is prey only to the largest ocean predators, such as sharks and billfishes
• The Wahoo’s speed makes it a prized game fish similar to barracuda. It’s also coveted for its delicate flaky flesh, making it a premium-priced food fish.

Diet

This large fish has a very diverse diet that consists of squid, tuna, little tunny, porcupine fish, flying fish, dolphinfish, jacks, herring, pilchards, scad, frigate mackerel, butterfish, and lantern fish, as well as many other pelagic species. 

Is Wahoo Good to Eat?

Wahoo fish is a popular game fish found in the warm waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. This species is known by names such as Ono in Hawaii and Peto or Beto in Mexico. The question that arises for most people is whether Wahoo Fish makes for a good meal or not. 

Wahoo has a firm texture with white meat that's mild and sweet tasting. It's often compared to other pelagic fishes like tuna, swordfish, and mahi-mahi due to its delicate flavor. Wahoo also has low oil content making it ideal for those who prefer less oily seafood. This fish is well known for Wahoo fish tacos. Wahoo is a healthy, extra-lean protein, low in saturated fat and sodium. Wahoo is rich in omega 3's, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and other nutrients.

When cooked properly, wahoo can be an exceptional food item that satisfies even the most discerning palates.

Fishing Techniques: How to Catch a Wahoo

In the Gulf of Mexico, the Wahoo doesn’t stray far from the shore.  They can be found near oil and gas platforms, particularly near Port Aransas in Texas.  The angler will have success here especially during the cooler months. They are abundant in Florida from July to November and fishing Wahoo peaks in Hawaii from May to October. However, you may find the best place for Wahoo fishing is in their native Bahamas when they are migrating in high numbers between March and November.  

High-speed trolling at 12-15 knots with a 4-6 lure spread is commonly used to catch this fish. A fast trolling rig will feature a 30-50 wide reel with wire leaders since the wahoo’s teeth can cut through mono or fluorocarbon easily. Anglers can use a double braided line attached to an 80-100lb leader about two feet long. Minnow lures, bulletheads, and plungers are some favorite lures to use. 

If slow trolling (around 8-10 knots), fresh ballyhoo baited on double J-hooks with a rubber skirted resin head lure, or a diving-lipped lure is effective. Using jigs under floating debris and chunking are also efficient fishing techniques. 

Habitat & Distribution

The Wahoo is found in all tropical and subtropical waters worldwide but may migrate to higher latitudes during warmer months. Its native range includes the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. 

In the north Atlantic, it’s abundant during the summer from North Carolina and Bermuda and year-round in Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. 

The Wahoo is a pelagic open-ocean fish that is often drawn toward drifting objects is commonly found in waters up to 66 feet deep. While it’s known for being solitary, it may form small groups of 2-3 individuals and will form larger groups when mating.