Blue Marlin

About this species

A majestic billfish and the ultimate big-game trophy, with cobalt flanks and a spear-like bill. It roams blue water hunting tuna and squid, capable of spectacular greyhounding leaps. High-speed trolling of large skirted lures and rigged baits offshore is the pursuit.

Season

Depth

0 – 600 m

Habitat Spots

Fishing Methods

Bait & Rig

Large rigged ballyhoo or dead mackerel under skirted lures trolled at 7–9 knots along blue-water temperature breaks and current edges.

Edibility & Taste

Mostly released due to conservation concern; flesh is dark and strong-tasting, far less prized at the table than tuna.

Similar Species

Blue marlin has a rounded body cross-section and relatively short dorsal fin; striped marlin has a high first dorsal fin and visible body stripes at rest.

Record Weight

636 kg