Striped Marlin

QUICK GUIDE

Target Species: Striped Marlin (Tetrpturus audax)

Other Common Names: striper, spikefish, stripey

Identification: Extended upper jaw forming rounded spear. Back dark blue changing to silver on sides and belly. Sides have 12-16 light blue vertical bars or spots. Body more compressed and less rounded than other marlin species. Pectoral fins can be folded flush against body. Highly visible lateral line.

Biological Info: Live up to ten years. Spend majority of time of time from surface down to 10 meters. Highly migratory within its range especially during the winter when movements are made toward the equator.

Geographical Range: Tropical to temperate waters of Indian and Pacific Oceans. Found off coast of Australia as well as west coast of the U.S. as far north as Oregon though more common south of Pt. Conception, CA.

Favored Water Temp.: 65º-80º F

Size: Up to 13.5 ft (4.2 meters) and over 400 lbs (200kg)

IGFA Record: 494 lbs, New Zealand, 1986

Sporting characteristics: Noted for it's fantastic jumps superb fighting abilities especially on light to medium tackle. Lights up when excited.

Food & Feeding Habits: Mackerel, mullet, kingfish, flying fish, squid and small tunas. Swat prey with bill to stun them. Usually feeds during the day.

Fishing methods: Trolling artificial and dead baits as well as live and dead baits from drifting or anchored boat.

Top Spots: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, December-March: Hawaii, May and December- February; New Zealand, mid-January-end of March.

Conservation: Catch and release. Use properly rigged circle hooks. Minimize handling.