Black Marlin

QUICK GUIDE

Target Species: Black Marlin (Makaira indica)

Other Common Names: Silver Marlin

Identification: Back dark blue to black; vertical bars sometimes visible on sides; lateral line very rarely visible; silvery white belly; low, rounded first dorsal fin usually less than 50% of body depth; second dorsal fin begins in front of second anal fin; only marlin species with rigid pectoral fins; very short ventral fins seldom more than 12" even in large adults.

Biological Info: Highly and erratically migratory within its geographical range. Usually in deep water from surface to 100 feet near prominent bottom structures such as reefs and shelves. Little known about life span but probably similar to blues.

Geographical Range: Mostly tropical areas of Pacific and Indian Oceans. Scattered but continuous distribution in open ocean. More concentrated populations near coastal areas and islands. Some rare cases of species off southwest Africa near Ivory Coast and as far south as Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Favored Water Temp.: 70º-86º F

Size: Females up to 15 ft and 1,500 lbs, males under 500 lbs.

IGFA Record: 1560 lbs Cabo Blanco, Peru

Sporting characteristics: Very highly rated by anglers for power, size and endurance. Tend to take long, high speed underwater runs when hooked.

Food & Feeding Habits: Squid, scad, bonito, mackerel, tuna and flying fish. Probably use bill to stun and injure prey.

Fishing methods: Trolling large, brightly colored artificial lures as well as fresh dead and live baits. Kite fishing dead whole baits. Heavy tackle fly fishing.

Top Spots: Cairns, Australia, September-December; Cabo Blanco, Peru, May-October.

Conservation: Catch and release. Use properly rigged circle hooks. Minimize handling. Heavy tackle to reduce fight time and stress on fish.