How to Catch a Mahi-Mahi

Mahi is the Hawaiian word for "strong" and is an appropriate name for this dolphin fish. Living in tropical waters, mahi-mahi grow anywhere from 2 to 50 lbs. and are extremely tenacious fighters when caught. A day spent out on a boat in beautiful weather trying to catch mahi-mahi is an exceptional way to pass the time. Here's how to do it.

Things You'll Need

  • Fishing gear
  • Chum
  • Boat or charter boat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a guide or commercial fishing company for the fishing trip. Experienced guides can get to the mahi-mahi faster and know where the fish tend to school or feed. Check references for a reputable charter.

    • 2

      Understand that mahi-mahi travel in small schools or alone. Trolling for mahi-mahi is a favored method. Setting a line with a ballyhoo rig (many hooks on one line) is a common set up.

    • 3

      Look for floating debris or objects in the water, as mahi-mahi feed on the sea life attracted to these floating islands. Watch for jellyfish (another sign of mahi-mahi), as they travel to the surface to feed on the fish's uneaten meals.

    • 4

      Set a line on a fishing pole using feathers, spoons or artificial lures. All of these methods can attract a mahi-mahi on a single line.

    • 5

      Chum the water to get the fish into the area. Usually chumming attracts fish other than mahi-mahi, so keep a heavy line on the reel. Cut bait or minnows serve as an adequate chum.