Appearance
Also known as mahi-mahi or dorado.
- Bright greenish blue back with yellow on sides
- Single dark dorsal fin extends from above the eye to the tail
- Capable of flashing purple, chartreuse and a wide range of other colors
- Body tapers sharply from head to tail
- Irregular blue or golden blotches scattered over sides
- Profile of head on adult males is nearly vertical
- Profile of head on females is more sloping
Similar Species: Pompano dolphinfish, C. equiselis (has square-shaped tooth patch on tongue; dolphinfish have an oval-shaped tooth patch on tongue)
Size: Up to 63 inches (88 pounds); common to 30 pounds
Habitat
Offshore in warm waters. Young live in floating sargassum weed.
Behavior
Fast swimmers and one of the fastest-growing fish, though to live no more than 5 years. Spawns in warm oceanic currents throughout much of the year. Diet includes flying fish and squid.
Additional Information
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.
Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles