The Bahamas Blue Marlin

The blue marlin is the national fish of the Bahamas, so naturally, they are plentiful in the crystal blue waters surrounding the islands. They are found throughout the Atlantic Ocean and easily recognized based on their long sword-like nose and large blue bodies. Because they are one of the most popular fish in the Bahamas, catching one, though it may prove difficult due to their strength and size, is extremely rewarding.

Description
Marlins are known for their size with the females growing up to four times as large as the males. While the larger males usually weigh about 350 pounds, a female can reach up to 1,810 pounds, just shy of a ton. They can also grow up to sixteen feet long. According to the International Game Fish Association, the largest one ever caught was 1,402 pounds, and it was captured in Brazil. Their size and the strength that accompanies it means they have to deal with few predators, mainly killer whales and great white sharks.

The fish is usually blueish-black to cobalt blue on top with a silverish-white underside, though it can change colors quickly when it gets excited, usually when eating or mating. They may also have light blue or lavender stripes. Aside from its color, its long, pointy bill is one of its most recognizable characteristics, as is its high dorsal fin.

Habitat and Migration
Blue Marlins prefer warmer temperatures and generally stay in the tropical areas of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the waters of the Caribbean and Central and South America, as well as the coast of Africa near the equator. However, during the warmer summer months, they may swim further north or south, depending on the warmth and direction of the ocean currents. Their ideal water temperature is 75 degrees. Tagging studies have shown that the fish can travel up to 9,254 miles. These studies also show that the fish in the Bahamas usually travel back and forth to Venezuela throughout the year. They tend to stay closer to the surface of the water where temperatures are higher, but they will dive deep to catch food.

Feeding
The fish tend to feed along coral reefs and oceanic islands which is one of the reasons they often migrate to the Bahamas and other Caribbean islands. They feed on fish like tuna, squid, and mackerel, but they are not too picky and will eat several small fish or a large fish of up to 100 pounds. The marlin is thought to invade a school and stab at the fish with its long bill.

Popularity
Blue marlin fishing has been a popular sport for nearly a century. Writer Ernest Hemingway loved to fish for them in the Bahamas and the Florida Keys and even wrote about it in his famous story The Old Man and the Sea. Bimini and Cat Cay are two of the most popular spots for fishermen seeking one of the majestic creatures. There is even an annual billfish fishing tournament held each year in the Bahamas.

Catching a Marlin
The fish put up a big fight when they are caught which means a fisherman must be prepared when he or she catches one. In the early days of marlin fishing, a special set of skills was required to hook one, but in modern times, fishermen rely on equipment like speedy boats and fish-finding technology.

Natural bait and artificial bait can all be used when catching blue marlins. Natural rigged bait like Spanish mackerel and horse ballyhoo have been used since the 1930s and are still popular today. The fish's aggressiveness also makes it a great candidate for the splashing action and bubble trail of an artificial lure which is usually a more popular option. The artificial lure should be between 7 and 14 inches and fished at a speed of 7.5 to 9 knots. It can be fished from an outrigger or rod tip.