Marlin
About the Fish
Marlin fishing is considered by many game fishermen to be the pinnacle of offshore game fishing, due to the size and power of marlin and the difficulty of capture. The major tournament is the Drambuii located in Key West in the month of July. In July we have a plethora of Dolphin fish which is a favorite of the Man in the Blue Suit (Marlin). These fish reach weight in excess of 1000 lbs known as a grander. The blue and the black marlin both can reach these weights.
Seasons
May through December are the peak months for Marlin off the Coast of Key West, Florida. In the Summer and Fall the Dolphin are plentiful, which brings the Marlin around to feed. In the Winter the Blackfin Tuna, Bonito and Skipjack Tuna are plentiful prey.
Where to Catch Them
It seems the Marlin hang around upwelling’s of Ocean currents where the Bait is plentiful. Located around 1000 ft of water south of Key West is the drop off called the Wall. Try to locate floating debris, weed lines, or bird activity these are good areas for Marlin.
How/ Techniques to Catch Them
Trolling large Ballyhoo (horse ballyhoo) around 6 to 8 knots with large Big Eye Marlin lures works well. One or two teasers should be pulled as well to help the surface activity to draw more fish. A Hard Headed lure works well; it most resembles the hard head of a Tuna or Bonito, which are a favorite prey for the Marlin. Use a 14/o Double strength hook when trolling the horse ballyhoo, the Marlin can be an extremely powerful opponent.
Equipment Used to catch them
50 to 80 lb test tackle is recommended depending on how long a fight you would prefer. No less than a Tiagra 30 wide is recommended, Marlin are a powerful fish and can reach weights in excel of 1000 lbs. A 50 to 80 lb 6 ft standup rod is recommended for the sport fisherman. A bent but rod with a but harness makes for a great standup fight for the light tackle sport fisherman
