Dolphin: Coryphaena hippurus

Appearance:

• Bright greenish blue above, yellow on sides and has the capability to flash a wide range of colors
• The body tapers sharply from head to tail
• Irregular blue or golden blotches are scattered over the sides
• Female's heads slope more than males

Habitat:

Dolphin are open-ocean fish. The young live in floating sargassum weed.

Behavior:

Dolphin are fast swimmers and fast growers that live no more than 5 years. Spawning occurs year round in warm oceanic waters.

State Record:

81 lb, caught near Lantana

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Adults eat squid, flying fish and other small fish while cruising weed lines in offshore waters. Troll natural baits such as ballyhoo rigged on #7 or #8 steel wire with a 7/0 or 8/0 hook. They can also be caught on artificial lures, feathers, or spoons. When a schooling dolphin is hooked, the rest of the school will often stay nearby. Chumming cut bait will bring them in and create a frenzy of activity. Dolphin is a favorite seafood item for many people.

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles