Dolphin
About the Fish
The Dolphin, Mahi-Mahi, Dorado are all names for this beautiful pelagic fish. Dolphin are one of the fastest growing fish in the ocean, growing from 1 to 10 lbs in its first year of life. Bright blue and green are the colors, being able to change colors at will for camouflage purposes. It is a delectable fish for table fare, on the grill is the favorite of most.
Seasons
The Dolphin or Mahi-Mahi can be caught all year around in Key West, Florida. Due to the warm gulf stream waters which pass very close to the tip of our island, the fish thrive in this temperate zone. May through September is the peak of the season with most of the monster bull dolphin are caught in May and early June.
Where to Catch Them
Dolphin can be caught anywhere from 10 to 5000 ft of water. Most fish are caught between 150 and 1000 ft of water depending on the location of the Gulf Steam. Most fish congregate under debris such as: Sargassum weed lines, boards, rope, buckets and any floating structure.
How/ Techniques to Catch Them
Trolling a rigged ballyhoo and plastic lures are the favorite methods of most. Trolling at a speed of 3 to 6 mph seems to create the effect of a live swimming fish with tremendous effectiveness. The Dolphin Demon lure is an excellent choice and rigged ballyhoo can be purchased at most tackle shops in your area.
Equipment Used to catch them
The open faced smaller conventional reels are a great choice for trolling. The shimano Trinidad 30, lined with 30 lb test works well. We tie a bimini twist knot to a 50 to 80 lb leader to the hook. A 5 to 10 ft leader of 60 lb test is used mostly by Key West charter captains. Any 20lb spin outfit works well for the smaller school sized fish which will follow the hooked fish to the boat, so be ready. A 7 to 9/o hook works well with the ballyhoo while trolling. A 4/o or 5/o hook with be fine for the schoolie fish which range from 2 to 10 lbs.
