Atlantic blue marlin

Makaira nigricans

Family

Istiophoridae

Max Length

500 cm

Max Weight

636 kg

IUCN Status

Water Type

saltwater

Fishing Spots

Overview

The Atlantic blue marlin is a species of marlin endemic to the Atlantic Ocean. It is closely related to, and usually considered conspecific with, the Indo-Pacific blue marlin, then simply called blue marlin. Some authorities consider both species distinct. Blue marlin are distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a bluewater fish that spends the majority of its life in the open sea far from land.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

Skipjack Tuna
A favorite; highly effective for big marlin.
Bonito
Another tuna species, readily available.
Little Tunny (False Albacore)
Durable bait, can withstand aggressive strikes.
Frigate Mackerel
Oily and attractive to marlin.
Live Squid
Excellent choice when available.

Artificial Lures

Yamashita Maria Japan Pop Queen 160Popper
Creates a lot of surface commotion.
Buy
Mold Craft Wide RangeTrolling Lure
Classic marlin lure, various color combinations.
Buy
Yo-Zuri BonitaTrolling Lure
Durable and effective at higher trolling speeds.
Buy
Black Bart BreakfastTrolling Lure
Popular choice for big game fishing.
Buy
Williamson Sailfish CatcherTrolling Lure
Versatile lure, works well in various conditions.
Buy

Techniques

When trolling for marlin, vary your speed and direction to trigger strikes; pay close attention to sea surface temperature breaks and current edges.

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Where to Find Atlantic blue marlin

Hawaii, United States6 spots Baja California Sur, Mexico3 spots Massachusetts, United States2 spots Florida, United States2 spots Rarotonga, Cook Islands2 spots Sonora, Mexico2 spots KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa1 spots Washington, United States1 spots Connecticut, United States1 spots Louisiana, United States1 spots

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Atlantic blue marlin?+

Popular baits for Atlantic blue marlin include Skipjack Tuna, Bonito, Little Tunny (False Albacore), Frigate Mackerel, Live Squid. Tip: When trolling for marlin, vary your speed and direction to trigger strikes; pay close attention to sea surface temperature breaks and current edges.

Where can I catch Atlantic blue marlin?+

Atlantic blue marlin can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Hawaii, United States; Baja California Sur, Mexico; Massachusetts, United States. WikiCatch lists 79 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Atlantic blue marlin get?+

Atlantic blue marlin (Makaira nigricans) can reach up to 500 cm in length and 636 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is VU.

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