LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

• Mahi Mahi can be found in the north east region of the US.

• These pelagic fish are commonly found in offshore waters, particularly near the Gulf Stream and warm ocean currents.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

• Mahi-mahi prefer areas with warm ocean currents, floating debris, and underwater structure, where they can find baitfish and other prey.

• Look for them near temperature breaks, weed lines, and areas with floating debris, where nutrient-rich water attracts baitfish schools.

• Pay attention to water temperature, clarity, and surface activity, as these factors can indicate the presence of feeding mahi-mahi.

PATTERNS

SPRING

• During the spring, Mahi Mahi can be found in the Gulf of Mexico as they migrate northwards.

SUMMER

• During the summer, Mahi Mahi can be found in the north east waters of the US as they migrate northward and are commonly caught as they are feeding actively.

FALL

• Mahi Mahi can still be caught in the north east waters of the US as they migrate southward.

WINTER

• During the winter, Mahi Mahi are not as common in the north east waters of the US, but they can still be caught in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Bait

• Popular choices include trolling lures such as feathers, squid skirts, and diving plugs. It is also common to use natural baits such as rigged ballyhoo, strip baits, or live baitfish.

Techniques

Trolling

• How: Trolling is a popular method for catching Mahi Mahi. The most productive trolling speed for Mahi Mahi is around 6-8 knots. Use lures that imitate small baitfish such as Hoochies, Diving Plugs, Tuna Feathers. Mahi Mahi can be found near floating objects such as seaweed, logs, and buoys, so keep an eye out for these signs while trolling.

• Gear: Rods: 20-30 lb class trolling rods.

  Reels: 50 wide trolling reels.

  Line: 20-30 lb test monofilament or braided line.

  Lures: Hoochies, Diving Plugs, Tuna Feathers.

  Leader: 40-60 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders

Live Bait:

• How: Mahi Mahi are also caught using live bait, such as small fish, squid, or shrimp. Look for birds or floating objects, as Mahi Mahi often congregate around these areas. When you see Mahi Mahi swimming around your boat, toss out live bait or a small lure to entice them to strike.

• Gear: Rods: 20-30 lb class spinning or conventional rods. Reels: 6000-8000 spinning reels or 20-30 lb class conventional reels. Line: 20-30 lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: #1 to 2/0 live bait hooks. Leader: 30-50 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leader

Casting:

• How: Casting lures to Mahi Mahi can be very effective, especially around floating objects such as weed lines or buoys. Cast lures ahead of the school and retrieve them quickly to trigger a strike.

• Gear: Rods: 10-20 lb class spinning rods. Reels: 3000-4000 spinning reels. Line: 10-20 lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Topwater poppers, small metal jigs, and soft plastics. Leader: 20-30 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leader

Fly Fishing

• How:Fly fishing for Mahi Mahi is an exciting and challenging way to catch these fish. Look for Mahi Mahi swimming near the surface and cast flies in front of them. Use fast retrieves and make the fly move erratically to imitate fleeing baitfish.

• Gear: Rods: 8-10 wt fly rod,

  Reels: Large arbor reel to match the size of the fly rod,

  Line: Floating or intermediate fly line,

  Flies: Small baitfish patterns in various colors.

  Leader: 40-60 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leader.