Mahi Mahi

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

They inhabit offshore waters in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including the Mid-Atlantic waters along the East Coast of the United States.
Anglers targeting mahi mahi often venture into the Gulf Stream and offshore waters where these fish congregate around floating debris, weed lines, and offshore structures.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Mahi mahi are pelagic predators that inhabit offshore waters, particularly in areas with warm water temperatures and oceanic currents.
They are commonly found around floating debris such as logs, mats of seaweed, and floating objects, which serve as sources of shelter, food, and spawning habitat.
Mahi mahi are opportunistic feeders, preying on a variety of small fish, crustaceans, and squid.
Pay attention to water temperature, sea surface conditions, and color changes, as these factors can influence mahi mahi distribution and feeding behavior.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, mahi mahi begin their northward migration along the East Coast, following warming water temperatures and oceanic currents.

SUMMER

During the summer, Mahi Mahi are typically considered the prime season for catching them in the Mid Atlantic region as the waters are at their warmest and the fish are abundant.

FALL

During the fall, Mahi Mahi can still be caught in the Mid Atlantic region as they migrate southwards. As the waters start to cool down, Mahi Mahi may be found in deeper waters.

WINTER

Trolling

How: Trolling is a popular method for catching Mahi Mahi. The most productive trolling speed for Mahi Mahi is around 6-8 knots. Use lures that imitate small baitfish such as Hoochies, Diving Plugs, Tuna Feathers. Mahi Mahi can be found near floating objects such as seaweed, logs, and buoys, so keep an eye out for these signs while trolling.
Gear: Rods: 20-30 lb class trolling rods.

Live Bait:

How: Mahi Mahi are also caught using live bait, such as small fish, squid, or shrimp. Look for birds or floating objects, as Mahi Mahi often congregate around these areas. When you see Mahi Mahi swimming around your boat, toss out live bait or a small lure to entice them to strike.
Gear: Rods: 20-30 lb class spinning or conventional rods. Reels: 6000-8000 spinning reels or 20-30 lb class conventional reels. Line: 20-30 lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: #1 to 2/0 live bait hooks. Leader: 30-50 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leader

Casting:

How: Casting lures to Mahi Mahi can be very effective, especially around floating objects such as weed lines or buoys. Cast lures ahead of the school and retrieve them quickly to trigger a strike.
Gear: Rods: 10-20 lb class spinning rods. Reels: 3000-4000 spinning reels. Line: 10-20 lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Topwater poppers, small metal jigs, and soft plastics. Leader: 20-30 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leader

Fly Fishing

How:Fly fishing for Mahi Mahi is an exciting and challenging way to catch these fish. Look for Mahi Mahi swimming near the surface and cast flies in front of them. Use fast retrieves and make the fly move erratically to imitate fleeing baitfish.
Gear: Rods: 8-10 wt fly rod,