The striped marlin, scientifically known as Kajikia audax, is a majestic species of billfish that inhabits the world’s warmer oceans. Characterized by its striking appearance and remarkable prowess in the open waters, the striped marlin has captivated the imagination of anglers, marine enthusiasts, and scientists alike.
One of the most distinguishing features of the striped marlin is, of course, its stripes. These slender, silvery-blue fish are adorned with vertical, dark blue to black stripes that run along their sides, giving them their name. These stripes, while aesthetically striking, serve a functional purpose in their environment. They help break up the fish’s outline, making it harder for predators to spot them and allowing them to stealthily approach their prey.
Striped marlins have a long, pointed bill that is lined with sharp, spear-like teeth. This bill, or rostrum, is one of their key hunting tools. When hunting, striped marlins use their speed and agility to slash through schools of smaller fish, stunning or impaling their prey with their bill before circling back to feed.
Striped marlins are pelagic, which means they prefer the open ocean and are rarely found near the coastline. They thrive in warm, tropical and subtropical waters, often congregating near underwater seamounts, ridges, and other underwater features where prey is abundant. These areas provide an ideal hunting ground for these agile predators.
How to catch Striped Marlin
Equipment and Gear:
Ensure your fishing gear is up to the task. You’ll typically need heavy-duty trolling reels and rods, strong fishing line (50-80 pound test monofilament or braided line is common), and a variety of lures and baits.
Lures and Bait:
Live bait, such as small tuna or mackerel, can be very effective for attracting striped marlin. Many charter boats will have live bait tanks to keep baitfish healthy and active.
Fishing Locations:
Striped marlin are found in warm waters around the world. Some popular locations for marlin fishing include the Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and Hawaii, as well as parts of the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean. Research and choose a location known for striped marlin populations.
Timing:
Striped marlin can be found year-round in some areas but tend to be more active during certain seasons. Consult local fishing reports or experts to determine the best time to fish for striped marlin in your chosen location.
Techniques:
Striped marlin are often caught using trolling techniques. Slowly troll a spread of lures or baits behind the boat at various depths. Marlin are known to strike at lures and baitfish on the surface or at different depths, so it’s essential to cover a range of depths and positions.
Marlin fishing can require patience. Be prepared for long hours on the water. Keep a sharp lookout for signs of marlin activity, such as birds diving or baitfish jumping, as this can indicate the presence of marlin.
When a marlin strikes, allow it to take the bait and begin running with it before setting the hook. The hook should set itself as the marlin moves away. Once hooked, prepare for a challenging battle, as marlins are known for their strength and stamina. Use the boat to chase the fish if needed.