How to Catch Mahi-Mahi in the Caribbean

Mahi mahi, dolphin or dorado are a fun deep-sea fish for sport fishing. Because of their short life and rapid breeding, the species is less likely to fall into decline as a result of fishing. They are not endangered, and Caribbean mahi mahi are rated as a "Best Choice" for seafood from the Monterey Bay Aquarium's seafood watch. Their flesh is firm and slightly sweet, which makes them a very versatile fish when it comes to food preparation.

Things You'll Need

  • Fishing boat
  • Rod and reel for large fish
  • Ballyhoo
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a reputable charter boat that knows the area well. Someone with experience catching mahi mahi will be able to help guide you to the best fishing areas.

    • 2

      Head for waters that are between 78 and 85 degrees. This is the preferred temperature range of mahi mahi and the Gulf Stream is usually a good place to look.

    • 3

      Look for floating debris. Mahi mahi feed on the fish that take refuge under floating debris. Sargassum patches also are common place to find mahi mahi.

    • 4

      Follow seabirds. Birds are sometimes hard to spot at sea but if you see some diving, there is a good chance mahi mahi are feeding in the same place.

    • 5

      Look for jellyfish and related creatures such as the man-o-war. Like the seabirds, jellyfish feed on the scraps left over from mahi mahi feedings.

    • 6

      Use ballyhoo fish as bait. You can add feathers as skirts around the head and artificial baits as well, but ballyhoo are a great natural bait for mahi mahi.

    • 7

      Troll the lines between 8 and 10 miles an hour behind the boat.

    • 8

      When you catch a mahi mahi, particularly if it is a small one, leave it in the water next to the boat. This will attract other mahi mahi in the school.