Black Marlin

Black Marlin
(Makaira indica)

Current I.G.F.A. all time record: 707.61 kg (1560 lb) - Cabo Blanco, Peru - 4 August, 1953

Description: Color dark blue to black on back, vertical bars occasionally present, may not be obvious after death, belly silvery white, first dorsal fin low and rounded, less that 1/2 of body depth, second dorsal fin begins in front of second anal fin, pectoral fin is rigid in adults, more flexible in juveniles but will not lay flat against body without the joints breaking (only marlin with this characteristic), pelvic fin is short.

Other Common Names: White Marlin (Japan), Silver Marlin (Hawaii)

Size: Female larger than the male, males rarely exceed 300 pounds, females can weigh up to 2000 pounds.

Range: Found in the Indian and Pacific oceans.

Natural History: Very strong and exceptionally fast, feed on squid and pelagic fishes including tuna and dolphin.

Fighting Characteristics: Very strong and exceptionally fast fish which can test not only the angler and tackle but the entire crew. Can sprint along the surface, then run deep which often causes the line to break due to water pressure. Great opponent on fly tackle.

Courtesy of Billfish Tackle Supply