Blue Marlin

Locations

BODIES OF WATER

Blue marlin, renowned for their incredible size, strength, and acrobatic displays, can be found in the offshore waters of the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking the thrill of targeting blue marlin often venture into the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean. Here are some popular locations for blue marlin fishing in the Northwest:
OREGON: Blue marlin can occasionally be encountered offshore from ports such as Newport, Coos Bay, and Brookings. Although not as common as in other regions, Oregon's offshore waters have produced some remarkable blue marlin catches.
WASHINGTON: In Washington, blue marlin sightings are rare due to the cooler waters. However, occasional reports of blue marlin encounters have been made off the coast near Neah Bay and Westport.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Blue marlin are pelagic fish that inhabit the open ocean and are capable of covering vast distances. They are often found near offshore seamounts, underwater canyons, and areas with deep drop-offs. Blue marlin prefer warm waters, typically above 70°F (21°C), and are known to congregate near temperature breaks and areas with abundant baitfish.

PATTERNS

SUMMER

Summer is the primary season for blue marlin fishing in the Northwest. During this time, warm-water currents bring blue marlin closer to the coast. The peak fishing months for blue marlin are typically from July to September. Anglers often target blue marlin by trolling large artificial lures or deploying live bait such as skipjack tuna, mackerel, or bonito.

Blue marlin are apex predators known for their voracious appetite. When targeting blue marlin, it's essential to present them with enticing bait or lures. Here are some popular bait options:
Trolling Lures: Blue marlin are attracted to large, brightly colored trolling lures such as skirted lures, feather lures, or plug lures. These lures mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish and can entice blue marlin to strike.
Live Bait: Using live bait can be highly effective in enticing blue marlin to bite. Large live baitfish such as skipjack tuna, mackerel, or bonito are often rigged with circle hooks and deployed behind the boat. Live bait can be trolled or free-swimming to mimic natural prey and trigger a blue marlin's predatory instincts.
Ballyhoo: Ballyhoo, a popular baitfish, is often rigged with a skirted trolling lure or used in conjunction with a dredge teaser. The combination of the ballyhoo's natural swimming action and the flash and vibration of the teaser can attract blue marlin

Trolling

How: Trolling is the primary method used for blue marlin fishing. Troll large, skirted trolling lures or artificial baits at a speed of 6-8 knots. Choose lures with vibrant colors, such as blue and white or black and purple, to attract the attention of blue marlin. Focus on offshore areas with structure, temperature breaks, or areas where baitfish congregate.
Gear: Rods: Heavy trolling rods with a strong backbone. Reels: High-capacity lever drag reels designed for big game fishing. Line: 80-130lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 200-400lb test. Lures: Large skirted trolling lures, artificial baits.

Live Bait

How: Live bait fishing can be highly effective for blue marlin. Catch large, healthy baitfish such as bonito, skipjack tuna, or small dorado. Keep them alive in a well-aerated baitwell or livewell. Rig the live bait with a heavy-duty circle hook and attach it to a bridle rig or a kite rig. Position the live bait behind the boat using outriggers or downriggers to create a natural presentation.
Gear: Rods: Heavy stand-up rods or bent-butt rods designed for big game fishing. Reels: Powerful lever drag reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 200-400lb test. Hooks: Large circle hooks suitable for live bait fishing.

Chunking

How: Chunking involves using chunks of baitfish to attract blue marlin. Locate offshore areas with a high concentration of baitfish, such as areas near seamounts or underwater structures. Cut fresh baitfish, such as bonito or mackerel, into chunks and create a scent trail by consistently throwing them overboard. Drop your baited hooks, rigged with chunk baits, into the area to entice blue marlin to feed.
Gear: Rods: Heavy stand-up rods or bent-butt rods designed for big game fishing. Reels: Powerful lever drag reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 200-400lb test. Hooks: Large circle hooks suitable for chunk bait fishing.

Jigging

How: Jigging is an alternative method to target blue marlin. Use heavy vertical jigs or butterfly jigs and drop them deep into the water column. Jig the lure up and down with quick, jerking motions to imitate a wounded baitfish. Blue marlin can be enticed by the erratic movement of the jigs.
Gear: Rods: Heavy spinning or conventional rods with a fast action. Reels: Powerful spinning or conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-100lb test braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 200-300lb test. Jigs: Heavy vertical jigs, butterfly jigs.