Mahi-mahi (Dolphinfish)

Mahi-mahi, also called dolphinfish, flash brilliant blue, green, and gold with a long dorsal fin that runs most of the back. Mature bulls develop a steep, blunt forehead, while females keep a rounded profile. The vivid colors pulse when the fish is excited and fade quickly once it is boated.

They roam warm offshore waters worldwide, drawn to blue water, weed lines, floating debris, and current edges where bait concentrates.

Fast-growing and aggressive, mahi school and chase flying fish, squid, and small baitfish near the surface. Trolling ballyhoo and skirted lures along weed lines locates them, and once a school is raised, anglers keep it behind the boat by leaving one hooked fish in the water while pitching live bait, cut bait, or jigs to the rest. They strike readily and leap again and again, making them a favorite light-tackle offshore target and fine table fare.