Species guide
How to catch Black marlin
Istiompax indica
The black marlin is a massive and powerful saltwater gamefish known for its elongated body and incredible speed. It can grow up to 4.65 meters in length and weigh as much as 750 kilograms. Black marlin are highly mobile predators found mainly in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide.
Where they live
Black marlin inhabit warm saltwater regions of the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean. They are found from the surface down to around 915 meters deep and move seasonally, concentrating in areas such as the Coral Sea and Banda Sea without following strict migration routes.
Typical size
Up to about 465 cm
What they eat
- squid
- small tuna species
- dolphinfish
- mackerel species
- other medium-sized fish
Best baits
- large live baitfish
- chunk bait
- squid strips
Best lures
- large trolling lures
- deep diving plugs
- heavy jigs
How to fish for them
- trolling
- live bait fishing
- deep jigging
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