MAHI MAHI FISHING

The mahi-mahi or common dolphinfish is a surface-dwelling ray-finned fish found in off-shore temperate, tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. Also widely called dorado and dolphin, it is one of two members of the Coryphaenidae family, the other being the pompano dolphinfish. Mahi means very strong in Hawaiian.

Mahi-mahi can live up to 5 years, although they seldom exceed four. Females are usually smaller than males. Mahi-mahi are among the fastest-growing of fish. They spawn in warm ocean currents throughout much of the year, and their young are commonly found in rafts of Sargassum weeds. Mahi-mahi are carnivorous, feeding on flying fish, crabs, squid, mackerel, and other forage fish. They have also been known to eat zooplankton and crustaceans.

Mahi-mahi are highly sought for sport fishing and commercial purposes. Sport fishermen seek them due to their beauty, size, food quality, and healthy population.

Mahi-mahi, also often referred to as dolphin or dorado, are the most beautiful and aggressive fish populating the Gulf. These fish are fast, deliver a great fight, travel in abundant schools and are attracted to many types of bait.

Fishing for mahi-mahi is fun and entertaining. Trolling, casting, chumming and live baiting all take fish. In the Gulf, they can reach up to 60 lbs. but most common sizes are 20 to 40 lbs. They are colorful, fantastic fighters and one of the most sought-after fish species during the summer months.