Intermediate10-30 lbs avgBest: May - August

Mahi-Mahi Fishing

Also called dolphinfish, mahi-mahi are one of the most colorful and acrobatic offshore species. Their vivid blues, greens, and yellows light up the ocean.

About Mahi-Mahi Fishing

Mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) are among the most vibrant and exciting offshore game fish. Their electric blue, green, and gold coloring is stunning in the water, and their aggressive feeding behavior and acrobatic fights make them a favorite of offshore anglers worldwide. Mahi are pelagic fish found in tropical and subtropical waters, typically near floating debris, weed lines, and current edges.

Mahi-mahi are fast-growing fish that rarely live more than four or five years but can reach over 50 pounds. They are voracious predators that feed on flying fish, small tuna, squid, and crustaceans. One of the keys to finding mahi is locating floating structure -- anything from a piece of plywood to a massive Sargassum weed line can hold fish. Mahi school heavily, so when you find one, there are usually more.

Trolling with ballyhoo, skirted lures, or feathers along weed lines and current edges is the most common method for finding mahi. Once a school is located, anglers often switch to light spinning tackle and pitch live baits or cut chunks to keep the school near the boat. Mahi are excellent table fare -- their white, firm flesh is a staple at seafood restaurants. The combination of beauty, fight, and flavor makes mahi one of the most popular offshore targets.

When to Fish for Mahi-Mahi

Season

April - October

Peak Months

May - August

Techniques for Mahi-Mahi

TrollingLive baitChunk baitSight casting to weed linesLight tackle spinning

Did You Know?

Mahi-mahi are one of the fastest-growing fish in the ocean, capable of reaching 40 pounds in just one year.

Quick Facts

Average Size

10-30 lbs

World Record

87 lbs (IGFA)

Habitat

Open ocean, weed lines, current edges, floating debris

Difficulty

Intermediate

Best Months

May - August

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