Mahi Mahi Fishing in Puerto Rico

Written by: Captain Alberto Jimenez

Puerto Rico is renowned for its exceptional mahi mahi fishery. During the peak season, anglers who dedicate a full day to mahi mahi fishing can expect to have several opportunities to catch these fish. What makes Puerto Rico better than other fisheries in the United States is the larger size of the average mahi mahi caught locally. In one season, it’s typical for multiple 50 pound mahi mahi to be caught in both the South of Puerto Rico as well as the North - on a monthly basis! Mahi mahi, also known as dorado, thrive in the warm Caribbean waters and can be caught using a variety of techniques.

MAHI MAHI TACKLE, EQUIPMENT & Techniques

Tackle for mahi mahi fishing typically includes 20lb to 30lb size reels paired with medium-heavy rods. Mahi mahi are known for their acrobatic leaps and relentless fights, so gear up accordingly! The two most popular ways to fish for mahi mahi are trolling and running and gunning. Trolling is done with heavier tackle, colorful lures, and speeds of 7-10 knots. Running and gunning involves covering a lot of area at a higher speed looking for birds, floating structure or weed-lines. Once something promising is spotted in the water, the boat slows down to trolling speed and two ballyhoos are pitched. If the structures or birds are still holding additional mahi after one is hooked, smaller spinning rods are typically used to hook multiple fish. Mahi have a tendency to remain feeding as long as the initially hooked fish is still in the water, but they typically flee a member of their school is pulled out of the water. We recommend hooking up to four and then rotating them out to hold the school near the boat (keeping at least one hooked fish still swimming in the water).

MAHI MAHI SEASONS, SIZES & RECORDS 

The average size of mahi mahi caught in Puerto Rico ranges from 10 to 30 pounds, with larger bulls reaching up to 50 pounds. Mahi mahi caught in the South of Puerto Rico, the La Parguera and Ponce areas, tend to be larger. It is not uncommon for multiple 50+ pounders to be caught each month. The North sees a higher quantity of fish around the government FADS and can also occasionally hold good sized bulls The main season for mahi mahi fishing in Puerto Rico is during colder months of October through February, with peak fishing occurring specifically in November through January.  

Local records for mahi mahi fishing in Puerto Rico include a 77-pound bull caught off the coast of San Juan and an 82-pound fish caught off the coast of Fajardo.

MAHI MAHI FLY FISHING 

In addition to traditional fishing methods, fly fishing for mahi mahi is an exciting option for anglers looking for a unique challenge or to check fly fishing a big pelagic mahi mahi off their bucket list. This method requires a higher level of skill and experience, and the right equipment. A 10 to 12 weight fly rod with a saltwater reel and tropical line is typically used. Big flies or flies that pop on the surface will tend to get more bites.

MAHI MAHI CONSERVATION EFFORTS 

Mahi mahi are one of the fastest-growing species, but they are not immune to overfishing. Conservation efforts in Puerto Rico are run by the dolphinfish research program. They run a dolphinfish (another word for mahi mahi) tagging program and are constantly educating anglers about migration patterns. Catch and release of smaller fish and boat limits help ensure the sustainability of the mahi mahi population. Curate Fishing has historically participated in mahi mahi tagging programs to assist in scientific learning about the species and their behavior.

MAHI MAHI EATING & COOKING STYLES 

Mahi mahi is a delicious fish with a firm texture and a mildly sweet flavor. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, and frying. Mahi mahi is excellent in fish tacos, mahi mahi nuggets, ceviche, and as a grilled filet. It pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces, particularly those with a citrus or tropical flair.

Mahi mahi fishing in Puerto Rico is a thrilling and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed using a variety of techniques. Anglers should be prepared for long days, intense searches for floating debris, and exciting moments of intense adrenaline. Their acrobatics and amazing table fare makes mahi mahi the most popular offshore game fish in the world. Targeting mahi mahi is one of Curate Fishing’s specialties!