Fishing pole vs. fishing rod – What’s the difference? Most anglers, today, use the two terms interchangeably, but there is a difference or two. A fishing rod has eyes or line guides and a reel seat to attach a reel to it. A fishing pole has none of those things. Before mass production, a fishing pole was referred to as a cane pole. It was a long-cut pole, likely of bamboo or other similar material. You tied the line to the end and swung the bait out into the water. A fishing rod is a casting rod with a reel attached and line guides to help manage the line. Those are the biggest differences.
What Is a Fishing Pole?
A fishing pole is a very capable way to catch many types of fish. They are simply in their design, you can make them at home, and when made correctly, they can land big fish. So, what is a fishing pole? It is a cured piece of wood or bamboo. Bamboo is an excellent material to construct a fishing pole. Keep in mind that the difference between a fishing pole and a fishing rod is that a fishing pole is not meant to cast the line. Instead, you swing the line out and drop or plunk it into the water 10–20 feet from where you stand. A fishing pole also does not have a reel or line guides.
A fishing pole is an awesome tool for targeting fish in rivers, backwater pools, deep holes, or along riffles. The pole is set up by wrapping the line around the pole’s base five or so inches above where you would hold the pole while fishing. You spiral the line up the pole to the tip and whip-finish the line in place several times from the middle of the pole to two feet below the tip.
A whip-finish tool is helpful. Whip-finish simply means that you wrap or coil the line around the pole, then bring the line down over the coil and wrap it a few more times. This binds the line to itself so that the coil cannot come undone. Then you continue to spiral the line up the pole and repeat. At the tip of the rod is the “swing” line, the amount of line that you will use to fish.
It is important that you cure the pole. To do this, pick your piece of bamboo. It needs to be around 12 feet long. Once it is dried you will trim the pole to ten feet. The dried pole will be flexible, but strong. You can use a fishing pole to target many kinds of fish, including bluegill, smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie.
Are There Any Advantages to Using a Fishing Pole?
They are easy to use. The biggest advantage to using a traditional fishing pole is that they are just so easy to use. Swing out the line and bait and pull in the fish. The method is so simple that when you hit a pocket of hungry fish, you can fill up a bucket in no time.
Cost is another benefit. If you are the DIY type or a prepper looking for ways to survive off the land, then a DIY fishing pole is an amazing tool They will cost you the price of a roll of fishing line and a little time.
They are easy to make. A good straight piece of bamboo, fishing line, and some time are all the ingredients that go into creating a quality fishing pole.
They last a lifetime. If you care for your handcrafted fishing pole, it will last a lifetime. You will need to replace the line but otherwise, the pole will remain strong and flexible. To do that, store the rod flat and in a dry, warm location.
They are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. If you want to get your kids into fishing, then teach them how to make a traditional pole. Even for younger kids, these poles are so easy to use that they don’t have to mess with a reel.
What Is a Fishing Rod?
A fishing rod is a modern approach to a fishing pole. It also enables anglers to fish in different environments. It is much more appropriate to use a fishing rod to fish in the ocean rather than a fishing pole. A side from fishing in tide pools or shallow holes on the shoreline, a fishing pole is almost useless in saltwater. For charter boat fishing, like that offered by the Finest Kind, a fishing rod is essential.
The difference is that a fishing rod is made to house a reel and uses line guides instead of coiling the line around the rod to manage the line. Fishing rods may come in one or two sections, sometimes more. They are designed for anyone who needs to cast fishing line, generally for longer distances, and also who needs to be able to retrieve the line easily.
Fishing Rod Parts
The fishing rod itself is referred to as a blank. It is made out of wood, graphite, or fiberglass. It has line guides called eyes and a reel seat where the reel attaches to the rod. It also has grips and comes in a variety of grip styles including single-handed, split grips, and two-handed. You can also choose a fishing rod that is manufactured for left- or right-handed anglers.
Advantages of Fishing Rods
Why are fishing rods so convenient and commonly chosen? There are so many anglers these days, and that’s a good thing, that having access to the components to make a fishing pole might be difficult. Fishing poles are best used in still water and for other types of water, you want a fishing rod.
Casting Long Distances – some fish are shy, and you would never get close to them with the short line on a fishing pole. To target these fish, you want to be able to cast your bait out to them.
Fishing is Moving Water – Sometimes you want to feed line out while the bait drifts, or you may need to go deeper than ten feet and for those times, a fishing rod is a better option over a fishing pole.
Handle Big, Big Fish – You would never be able to plop a big shark out of the ocean like you would a bluegill out of the stream. You would need the advantage of tiring the fish out, which comes from playing the fish and using the drag setting on the reel. That is only achieved by using a fishing rod.
Fishing rod or fishing pole, which is the best for you? Answer this question based on what kind of fish you want to target and the type of environment in which you will fish. For most of us, a fishing rod is a good choice as it allows us to fish in many environments and target many types of fish. A fishing pole is also a great way to enjoy fishing in still waters without a huge upfront cost.
Marlin vs. swordfish – many anglers consider them the same fish. Is a marlin a swordfish?
No, not at all.
They are both referred to as billfish along with sail fin fish. However, they are different fish even though they look somewhat similar. Swordfish are not related to marlin, and they come from two different families of fish. One of the big differences is that blue marlin are larger than swordfish.
The record for blue marlin in Florida is over 1000 pounds while the Florida record for the largest swordfish is under 615 pounds. That’s about a 400-pound difference and a lot of fish. [1] The maximum size for swordfish is 15 feet and around 1,400 pounds. The maximum size for blue marlin is around 12 feet and close to 2,000 pounds. That makes the blue marlin a bit stockier than the swordfish.
A federal permit is required for both if you fish in federal waters. No special permit is needed in Florida waters.
Points of Distinction
Taste
The taste of marlin vs swordfish is similar. One difference is that marlin is fatty and swordfish are leaner. Both fish have pink flesh, and both have a similar taste. If you like the strong fish-like flavor of cooked fish, then the marlin is going to be a good match for you. The swordfish is milder in taste because it is also not as oily as marlin.
Physical characteristics
The easiest way to tell a marlin from a swordfish is to look at its dorsal fins. Marlin have a dorsal fin that extends to the base of their tail. A swordfish has a dorsal fin that is short. The bill or sword on a marlin is often shorter than that of a swordfish.
Marlin have scales whereas swordfish do not. Nor do swordfish have teeth.
Size
Adult fish will vary in size, but swordfish is often leaner and marlin stockier. A marlin that is the same length as a swordfish will likely outweigh the swordfish. If it came down to targeting the marlin over the swordfish, the marlin would likely be the top choice. Both fish would be an amazing opportunity for any angler.
1560 pounds is the record for black marlin [2] and for Florida, the blue marline record is 1046 pounds [3]
1182 pounds is the world record for swordfish [4] but in Florida, the state record for swordfish is 612 pounds. [5] It might be better odds to break a Florida State by targeting swordfish over marlin.
Habitat
Marlin and swordfish are deep-water saltwater fish that have the potential to be mega-monsters. When catching a fish is not your top priority, you can dedicate a day or a week to fishing for marlin or swordfish.
You can find swordfish near the surface or as deep as 2,000 feet. Blue marlin can dive to 1,900 feet or sometimes greater depths. You can fish blue marlin on the surface or in deep water. If you plan to target swordfish vs marlin, you should fish at night. Swordfish hunt and feed at night. Marlin hunt and feed during the day.
How to Catch
The key to catching billfish is to use a captain that understands how these fish behave and where they are while you are fishing. They can be on the surface or deep down in the cooler water of the Gulf. Big marlin and swordfish are solo predators so finding them is already difficult. That is another reason why they are such a thrill to target. The odds of finding one are slim but with a skilled captain who knows the local waters and a good boat, you have a better chance.
Trolling is one of the best methods to use for both big game fish such as marlin and swordfish. Marlin prefer baitfish and small predator fish, such as bonito. They also like live bait, but dead bait also works well. The best swordfish fishing occurs at night as these are nighttime predators. You can drop bait down deep in the day and sometimes catch swordfish, but mostly they feed at night. The preferred bait for swordfish is squid. You can also set up your line and drift in a small area if you do not want to troll at night. Trolling allows you to cover more ground, but not every captain wants to troll at night.
Summary
Billfish – those fish like marlin and swordfish – with their long upper jaw are the fish of legends. In the marlin vs swordfish debate, there are no losers. Taking one of these big game fish or any of the smaller marlin – white marlin or striped marlin or one of the massive black marlin or any of the swordfish is a remarkable feat.
Does it matter which you catch while billfishing? Chances are that when you set the hook the answer to that question will be no. The rush of adrenaline will be overpowering as may the fish. Some battles between big marlin and anglers have lasted 4.5 or more hours. Big fish – swordfish or marlin – have the potential to be a record and that means fish over a thousand pounds.
It is very likely that anyone who holds a Florida state record or world record for marlin or swordfish still remembers that day every single time they go fishing. Imagine the thrill of beating your own record or making a new one.
Deep sea fishing Gulf of Mexico waters is a life-changing experience that anglers love. Thanks to the shallow waters along the continental shelf that fade into deep water, the Gulf is a natural environment that produces monster fish. The 2,000 plus shipwrecks make a habitat for many of the game fish that angler seek. Big, trophy fish use the warmer tropical waters to thrive – hunt, feed, mate, bear young – a natural cycle that builds one of the greatest fisheries in the world. People come from around the globe to target:
Sharks
Tuna
Cobia
Jacks
Sailfish
King Mackerel
And many other species of game fish.
The record for big sharks includes a 544-pound thresher shark and a 911 pounds 12 ounces Mako shark (1962.) [1] The record for blue fin tuna is 832 pounds.
While record fish off Florida are one of the main draws for deep sea fishing there is also the thrill of being able to master the environment so that you can successfully target big, trophy fish. Those include the natural geological features of the Gull of Mexico, such as the seasonal changes between water temperature as they apply to the shallow continental shelf that fades into the deeper water and the cyclical migration of fish throughout the environment. There are over 2,000 shipwrecks found within the Gulf and natural structures that provide the elements for the cycle of life that all fish must face – The nursery areas, hunting grounds, and the saltwater reefs and communities that help to produce monster fish that anglers dream of.
Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico is a dynamic place to fish. You have miles and miles of sandy beaches, islands, lagoons, bays, river mouths, wetlands, everglades, marshes, estuaries, shallows, and then deep water, such as The Sigsbee Deep – a 3,750-meter deep hole in the Southwestern area of the Gulf. That’s deep sea fishing Gulf of Mexico at its finest.
You have options when it comes to choosing a good location. The coast of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida all provide access to the Gulf of Mexico. The bottom line is that you can likely find a good captain, boat, and crew just about anywhere along the Gulf. According to an article that appeared in Forbes, Florida may be your best bet. The article discusses the fact that Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World [2] They back that up with an interesting stat – Florida issues 720K non-resident fishing licenses each year. That is an influx of nearly a million anglers coming to Florida to fish.
Destin is the best place to fish the gulf coast since it’s closest to the best deep sea fish. It is also known and the “Luckiest Fishing Village in the World.” Not only does Destin, Florida attract anglers who want to fish in the Gulf of Mexico, it has a lot to offer families and visitors. That means there is a well-rounded set of experiences available to everyone who visits. Deep sea fishing draws in many anglers to the Emerald Coast where it is a short boat ride to the deep waters and trophy fish that lurk there.
The deep water off of Destin offers many options. You can fish the underwater canyons where those fish who love cooler water will hunt. You can fish the deep water reefs and wrecks where communities of fish thrive. Florida is home to some of the biggest game fish in the Gulf. Those include great white sharks, great hammerhead sharks, thrasher sharks, marlin, sail fin, tuna, and other feisty fish such as yellowtail.
While Florida is the go-to spot for many anglers, the gulf does offer many fishing destinations throughout its rugged coast.
Finding Your Charter
The key to successful deep sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is finding the charter that fits your agenda. The Gulf is a huge body of water and knowing where the fish are is challenging. Not only do you need to know how the legality of the area changes – state waters, federal waters, international waters, etc, – you also have to know how the fish migrate. At certain times of year, some deep sea species move closer to shore to deposit roe. Some migrate into international waters and may head South towards the equator where the water is warmer. Some may move to certain parts of the Gulf and its deep water trenches where they will find better hunting.
Tips for Finding a Charter for the Emerald Coast
One of the biggest issues that charter boat patrons have is that they end up not liking the captain or crew. Personalities are a big thing, especially when you are confined to a smallish space far from shore. Before you set out deep sea fishing Gulf of Mexico waters, consider these tips for finding the best charter for you.
Call around – Chat with the captain if possible and find on you like. A charter company can become a friend for life.
Read the rules – The captain will enforce the rules and those rules are there to ensure that everyone remains safe, comfortable, and feeling like they belong.
Compare prices to services offered – You want to feel like you are buying value. The experience and knowledge of the captain is a big ticket item.
Timing – You want to find a boat that leaves when are able to leave not one that makes you feel rushed to get to the boat before they leave. During the year, charters leave at different times and sometimes according to the tides.
Boat Size – the boat should be big enough to comfortably handle the number of anglers, crew, and guests. Fishing is a sport, you need the space to fish without being cramped. Shade, bathroom, rest area, cabin, and other amenities are important. When you charter fish in the Gulf of Mexico, it’s a 4-10 hour day – comfort matters.
Provisions – You will need a fishing license, tackle, gear, and equipment. Most charters will provide all of these for you. Other items that make a big difference is ice, fish filleting, and cold storage.
Maximum Number of Anglers – boat size we covered, but you also want to look at how many anglers the boat can handle. Each angler is a line in the water and the more there are, the more competition you will have for big fish.
What You Should Bring – Most boats have a list of items that you should bring. Compare that to your idea of what you should bring. Extra ice chests can be a problem, while some boats ask you to bring them.
Verify the License and Permits – Charter boats must have a license and certain permits. Check with the company to see what permits or licenses they hold. Find a boat that is fully licensed.
Family Friendly – Not all boats want children onboard. Be sure, if you are fishing with your family that the boat is child-friendly. That means safety features, attentive crew, etc.
Read the Cancelation Policy – Charters require a deposit and if you have to cancel the trip you want to understand how that will impact your deposit.
Prepare to Deep Sea Fishing Gulf of Mexico Waters
For deep sea fishing there are two options. You can chum in a spot and fish that location, or you can troll. Chumming is an easier time since you can target an area where a specific species or set of species range. You can also choose the chum to target those species of fish. Trolling is also a way to target big fish that may not investigate chum.
Regardless, you will need to know the basic topography of the area of the Gulf that you want to fish. There are many types of structures in the Gulf and fish utilize those structures in a variety of ways. They include:
Oil rigs
Underwater canyons
Deep water reefs
Wrecks
Drop-offs
As you prepare to fish in the Gulf of Mexico, you want to think about the fish you are targeting and the lay of the land.
What Fish Are in The Gulf of Mexico (And How to Catch Them)?
There are so many options throughout the Emerald Coast, but five of the top targets include:
Red Snapper – Highly targeted, great to eat – these fish can range to 30 pounds and as deep as 300 feet. Target them around bottom structures and natural reef systems. Due to their popularity, they have a limit.
Cobia – are tenacious fighters that you may encounter in groups of singularly. Expect most cobia to range from 20 to 50 pounds but do not be surprised if you hook one that is larger. They feed on bait fish and, you can cast and retrieve to target them near structures, especially high-water structures such as oil rigs.
Amberjack – Another tenacious fish that puts a lot of energy into the fight. These are mostly a reef species, and you can find them in waters that range to 400 feet deep. Like cobia, the majority will range to 50 pounds, but you can find rare trophies in the 100 pound range.
Sharks – There is a long list of sharks available and some may weigh a 1000 or more pounds. Mostly expect to tackle smaller sharks in the 100-200 pound range. Sharks are a good target for chumming. Patience is key to attracting the bigger sharks.
King Mackerel – range to around 60 pounds. They are also very popular for summer deep sea fishing Gulf of Mexico waters. They are regulated so check the limit before you go. Fish them with big cut bait or spoons.
The best tip will be to try to fish in the early morning and an hour before sunset. Those are the time when most fish are active.
Know Your Fish – Do a little research on the fish you want to target. The peak season for various species of fish are not the same. You want to plan your trip when the fish you want to target are near or at their peak season (highest populations.)
Know What’s Available Where You Will Fish – The fishing season will change throughout the Gulf of Mexico. If you are going to fish off of Florida, know the species of fish available for the time you will be there. That process helps you target fish that are in season and available.
Charter Boat Trips – Charter boats are an amazing way to introduce yourself to deep sea fishing and to fishing in the local area. The expertise of the captain will enhance your fishing trip and increase your odds of hooking trophy fish.
Be Prepared for the Deep Sea – four, eight, ten, or more hours of fishing can be tiring. Not only will the process be physical, but you will have to deal with the weather – sun, wind, rain, etc.. – and you will have to deal with the salt. Pay close attention to what the boat recommends you bring – water, sunscreen, polarized glasses, extra food, snacks, and motion sickness medication.
Know the Regulations – The fishing regulations will vary by state and by locality. Know the rules and regulations for where you will fish. If you are fishing on a charter boat, ask the captain, but also rely on your own knowledge.
Hone up on Fishing Techniques – The two most popular options for deep sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico are chumming and trolling. You might need to know about downriggers, types of chum, spoons, flashers, specialized leaders, and knots. If you are fishing on a charter boat, the crew will help you deal with all of these. They are also a great way to learn the ropes in case you want to deep sea fish on your own.
With the various types of fish in the Gulf of Mexico and the option to easily fish the deeper waters of the Emerald Coast, many anglers flock to the Gulf and Florida to try to target big, trophy fish. Gulf Coast fishing charters are an awesome way to experience deep sea fishing safely.
What to bring on a fishing charter is perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions. So much so that we are devoting this blog to that subject. Fishing the Emerald Coast is a dynamic adventure. Whether you are fishing the shallows or fishing in deep water, your trip will be much more enjoyable if you are prepared for what the day will bring. Here is our list of things to bring with you when you charter boat fish off Destin, Florida.
A big mistake that people make is that they try to bring too much stuff. A good tip is to pack purposefully so that you have what you need but are not burdened by a bunch of items that you will not use.
Safety Comes First
A good charter boat focuses on safety – the safety of the passengers, the safety of the captain and crew, and the safety of the boat itself. Your part of that process is to make sure that you have:
Daily Medication – If you have prescriptions, be sure to bring a three-day supply. This is one example of having more than enough is a good thing.
Motion Sickness Prevention – If this is your first time on the ocean in a boat, you will want to come prepared to NOT experience motion sickness. If you know that you are prone to motion sickness, do yourself a favor and take an OTC product before you show up to the boat. Once the boat is on the water is not the time to start seasick medicine. There are many options including patches, wristbands, and OTC meds or Rx.
Bug Repellant – Mosquitoes are a big deal and the only way to encourage them to avoid you is to use a bug repellant.
Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer – You will want to be able to clean your hands. They will get “fishy” from the bait and fish you catch. Hand sanitizer is also a good item to have. A small bottle will go a long way. Pick a brand that is also moisturizing as the salt in the water and blown by the wind will cause irritation.
The Sunshine State
If you are wondering what to bring on a charter boat fishing trip in the Sunshine State, then think sunshine and more sunshine. Florida is the sunshine state. These items will enable you to enjoy your fishing adventure and the days that follow. Here’s a complete list of what to bring.
Sunscreen – You will need sunscreen even if you are a sun lover. The reflection and refraction of the sun’s rays on the water will bake you quickly. SPF 50 or higher is a good place to start. Waterproof is a good option also.
Sunglasses – Polarized sunglasses are a must for anglers. The glare from the water can change your fishing experience negatively. The glare can lead to headaches and fatigue. Polarized sunglasses stop the glare.
Hat for Blocking the Sun – A visored hat will not only help to keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes, but it will improve your ability to fish. When paired with polarized sunglasses you will be able to see much better and that will improve sport fishing.
Lip Balm – The sun will come at you from all angles. Protect your lips with an SPF version of lip balm. You will thank yourself at the end of the day.
Food and Drink
You will need to supply your own food and drink, though some charters may provide water. Check the provision list for each charter you book. Be prepared to bring:
Large Water Bottle – aim for 100 ounces or more of water. It can be a long day on the boat and hauling in trophy fish can wear you out. Hydrating will help you maintain your energy levels and keep you active.
Cooler – A small cooler is essential for storing food, ice, and drinks. It does not have to be huge, remember that most charter boats hold six or more anglers and nobody wants to stumble around six giant coolers. Plus, if the water gets rough those coolers will slide around.
Food & Drink – You should bring a morning snack, full lunch, and afternoon snacks, plus some additional food just in case. Fishing is active so bring a few items that will help you maintain your energy levels. Soft drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks can be a good choice, but remember water is more important.
Protect Your Phone!
If you bring a camera or other electronic devices you will want to ensure that they stay dry. A waterproof bag such as a Ziploc or a double Ziploc bag will help keep your camera and phone dry.
Clothing
The weather is variable and one you cannot trust. It may look like clear sunny skies and then it is raining or the wind is howling. Here are some suggestions for keeping you comfortable throughout your fishing adventure.
Shoes – Non-skid soles are essential. Avoid flip-flops and aim for a water show or boat shoe.
Socks – Bring a change of socks because it is likely your feet may get wet.
Rain Gear – Quality charter boats have a cabin in which you can rest. If the rain comes up you can still fish if you have rain gear. Nylon UPF clothing will dry quickly. A waterproof jacket – light for summer, heavy for winter – will keep much of the rain off of you. Think lightweight and waterproof.
What to bring deep sea fishing will vary slightly from other types of charter boat fishing. You are farther out in the water so dress for wind, sun, rain, and more wind.
Preparing For Your Deep Sea Adventure
Generally, seasonal changes mean warm and dry and cool and wet – That is essentially a Summer vs. Winter adventure. You will want to change your rain gear to meet the seasonal changes. Remember that fishing before a storm can be the best deep-sea fishing around. Don’t be afraid to get rained on if you are hauling in fish.
There are many tactics for fishing the Gulf of Mexico. Most include trolling back and forth over the same spot. If you are prone to seasickness, then trolling might be a good option for you as the boat is moving. Chumming is another tactic that boats use a lot to draw in fish that hunt by smell. Chumming is a good way to target sharks, and big game fish, like cobia and amberjacks.
Know where you are fishing, your gear list will change slightly if you are fishing inshore or deep sea fishing. A good tip is to bring things that:
Offer comfort
Function well for you
Haven’t reserved your fishing charter yet? Book here!
Blue Marlin is perhaps one of the most sought-after big game fish on the planet. The record for blue marlin in Florida is 1024 pounds. [1] Given both of these facts is the question, how do you catch a blue marlin in the Gulf? The simple answer is that you troll for these big trophy fish using big dead bait – whole or cut.
Some anglers may use live bait but when trolling it makes it much more difficult to attract and then hook the marlin. The reason dead bait – preferably whole – is that the dead fish will swim more naturally in the water as you troll, and that is how to catch a marlin in the Gulf. There is a bit more to it, but not much, and we go deeper with the details further inside.
Spotting The Four Marlin Species
There are four species of marlin in the Gulf – Black marlin, blue marlin, White marlin, and striped marlin. Here’s a little deeper information about all four.
Blue Marlin
Best Bait – Whole blackfin tuna, skipjack, and bonito are three of the top dead fish baits for blue marlin. People are also successful on occasion with flashers that mimic any of these fish.
Best Destinations – Destin Florida is the top destination for blue marlin. It is here where the record 1046-pound blue marlin was landed by a charter boat. Other locations include along the panhandle – Panama City, etc.
What To Look For – Schools of flying fish, mackerel, and other balls of fish are often a good indication of marlin. Another clue to the presence of marlin is birds feeding in open water. Diving birds, such as seagulls and pelicans will feed on the baitfish that the marlin push to the surface.
Black Marlin
Best Bait – Mackerel, Bonito, or If you can find them, squid. Whole fish in the foot plus range in size. Dead bait is one of the best options over live fish because it will trail in the trolling waters allowing the marlin an easy grab.
Best Destinations – Two of the best destinations for Black marlin are off the coast of Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, Florida.
What To Look For – Warm water is key. They like to hunt near shore and along shallow coral reef units. They will pick off smaller predatory fish – small tuna, mackerel, squid, as they forage.
Striped Marlin
Best Bait – Live or dead – Mackerel, sardines, and big eye are three of the top baits.
Best Destinations – Destin, Panama City, and along the panhandle.
What To Look For – Look for water temperatures that range from 65F- 75F. Troll in long sweeps past structures, reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs.
White Marlin
Best Bait – Smaller baitfish – anchovies, mackerel, herring – even bonefish will attract white marlin. Dead is good – live bait will work, so will bait fish mimics and spoons – The best bait is a small (foot size) mackerel.
Best Destinations – Throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic, and around Miami.
What To Look For – Water temperatures above 66F and target them in the mid to top level of the water column. They will come inshore after baitfish or to hunt for squid.
How To Catch Marlin
The best way to catch blue marlin is by trolling with a dead bait trailing the boat. Keep the speed under five knots, making long sweeps through the clear water. A nice oily fish will often do the trick to attract a marlin, but you will need to calm down and let the fish, hook itself. Marlin will suck in your bait as it does, feeding the line off the spool so that the line catches the current and drags the hook into the jaw. If you yard the line to set the hook you will likely float the hook right out of the fish’s mouth.
Blue Marlin Fishing Techniques
Pitch Bait – A sight fishing technique – Marlin are often curious, and you may spot a marlin near the boat either investigating the disturbance or tracking the bait you are tolling. If your rig is already in the water and fish is not near it, a pitch bait comes in handy. A pitch bait is a rod already rigged with a dead bait fish on the hook. You “Pitch” the bait toward the marlin in hopes it will take the hook.
Trolling – The only way to really catch a marlin IMO is to troll. Marlin pick off smaller predatory fish, squid, and baitfish that they find in open water. Trolling a stretch of ocean with a few leaders out and trailing a 1–2-foot mackerel, or other appropriate bait, will bring the marlin in near the boat. Dead fish are best because as you troll at low speeds, the dead fish will simply swim in a side-to-side fashion rather than all over the place. Marlin will trail the boat, and then strike the fish and a dead fish that is swimming due to the current created by the trolling motion of the boat will be an easy target. Troll at five or fewer MPH so that the bait is beneath the surface and not bouncing along the top of the water.
Harpoon – Sinking a harpoon into a big marlin is intense. It is not for the faint of heart. These fish have a ton of power, and they explode out of the water. Hooking one on a fishing rod is a better way to control the fish and tire it out.
Blue Marlin Fishing Tips
Use Natural Bait – Natural bait is a live fish or dead fish. Dead is preferred, though there are many arguments over which type of natural bait is better. The reason we say use a dead fish is how the dead fish “swims” behind a trolling boat. If you get the trolling speed correct, the dead bait will wobble side to side and remain under the water’s surface. A live fish may become erratic making it more difficult for the marlin to take the bait.
Artificial Baits – Artificial baits can work to catch marlin, but many anglers already feel that catching a blue marlin is difficult. Part of that struggle is bait choice. If you are going to use artificial baits, use the ones that resemble big bait fish. It is not uncommon to use a dead mackerel in the 1-2 foot length. Some marlin will go after sardine-size baits, others will chase larger prey. Big squid lures are one I would try. If you are not getting results with artificial lures, take the time to jig for smaller predatory fish, such as smaller blackfin tuna, mackerel, or bonito fish, and switch to natural bait.
The Right Gear – 100-pound monofilament line is a standard line for marlin. You pair that with a good reel with a lever drag in the 80-class range. A rod that is 12-weight will do for smaller fish – those under 100 pounds, but larger marlin will need a 14 or 16-weight rod.
Find Their Habitat – water temperature plays a big role in where you find blue marlin. Look for water temperatures above 70°F and below 85°F. That spot will change throughout the year and seasonally. Look also for schools of baitfish, though blue marlin will hunt single fish, especially smaller predator fish, like blackfin tuna. These fish will stick near structures until nighttime where they will swim off in search of stray baitfish or squid. That is when the Marlin will take them. Long sweeps trolling past structures can catch the eye of marlin, which are visual hunters. Off the coast of Destin and along the panhandle where the water is 70-85°F is ideal.
Gulf Coast Laws
Minimum Size Limit – For blue marlin they have to be longer than 99 inches from their lower jaw to the tail fork. For white marlin, they have to be 66 inches or longer also measured from the jaw to the tail fork.
Daily Bag Limit – Florida says one billfish per day regardless of species.
Season – open year-round, but warmer months are best with August, September, and October being the best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Reel in a Marlin? Usually, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to tire out a blue marlin. It can take longer for bigger fish.
Where Can You Catch Marlin? Marlin are available around the world. They prefer tropical and subtropical waters and the Gulf of Mexico is a perfect destination, especially around the panhandle and off the coast of Destin, Panama City, and Santa Rosa Beach.
What Do You Do with a Marlin After You Catch It? Most anglers release blue marlin after they catch it. That is to help conserve the species. Blue marlin can live for 20 or more years, and it takes a long time to replace a big marlin. Some people may choose to keep their catch, but in Florida, you are limited to one billfish, regardless of the species. You may choose to eat the fish or have it preserved for display.
