D - December 16, 2020

DOLPHINFISH

Scientific Name:

Coryphaena hippurus

Salt/Fresh:

Salt

Also Known As:

Mahi Mahi; Dorado; Dolphin; Goldmakrele; Shiira; DOLPHINFISH

Rating:

Countries:

Description:

The Dolphinfish is a beautiful pelagic species targeted by sport fisherman, very good eating as well

How To Identify:

Dolphinfish are one of the most beautiful game fish in the ocean. They have an elongated shape with a deep blunt head. They range from electric blue to a beautiful deep green. Quite often it has the electric blue fading into the deep green then fading to a deep yellow colour on the lower body and belly. They are common up to the 10 kg range however can grow as large as 40 plus kgs.

How To Catch:

Dolphinfish are usually taken on smallish lures intended for Tuna and other Pelagic but are certainly a welcome catch, such as small marlin pushers, jigs or metal slices. However they will also take medium sized minnows. Probably the most effective method is live bait such as slimy mackerel or yakkas, these can be slow trolled or fished around beacons, or any type of debris in open water which seems to attract them.

Where Found:

Internationally

Worldwide in tropical and warm temperate waters. It usually cruises the surface of the open ocean, although any type of deep sea mooring, or floating debris seems to be an attractant for. They are quite often found schooling and are migratory.

Australia

In Australia they are caught right around the northern part of Australia from Rottnest Island in the West right around to on occasion as far south as Sydney.

New Zealand

In NZ they are found around the top half of the north island over the outer continental shelf and open ocean.