How to catch the Exotic MAHI-MAHI or Pez Dorado❓

Fishing Pro Exclusive Punta Cana - Mahi Mahi
Fishing Pro Exclusive Punta Cana – Punta Cana Fishing Charter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Mahi-Mahi, also known as Dorado, inhabits three major oceans: the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific. In the Atlantic, the Caribbean islands are a prime location for catching this fish, with Punta Cana being a popular spot.

When targeting Mahi-Mahi, common fishing methods include:

  • Trolling (our preferred method)
  • Drifting
  • Classic boat spinning

The primary gear for catching Mahi-Mahi is a sea spinning rod up to 2.3 meters long. This is typically outfitted with a multiplier reel capable of holding up to 300 meters of line (mono or Dacron), and a reliable, sharp hook.

For bait, Mahi-Mahi are often attracted to:

  • Meat from small crustaceans (shrimp, crabs)
  • Cephalopod meat (squid)
  • Small fish (whole or cut)

Artificial lures that prove effective include:

  • Lipless crankbaits
  • Heavy oscillating spinners
  • Artificial squid
  • Artificial «tread» (17-25 cm long)
  • Flying fish imitations
  • Rigs with natural flying fish

While an echosounder can help locate schools of Mahi-Mahi, the best indicator of their presence is often the activity of flying fish leaping from the water. Our extensive experience in tropical waters ensures a successful and safe fishing trip. What are you waiting for?

Book your Mahi-Mahi fishing charter today!

Take a Look at Our

Most Popular Tours

Punta Cana Fishing Charters - Sobre Las Olas - 42 ft ✅

Dream of Sea Fishing But Don't Have a Boat? Book
Private
42 ft

Punta Cana Fishing Charters - Divina - 35 ft ✅

Want to Go Sea Fishing But Don't Have a Boat?
Private
35 ft

Punta Cana Fishing Charters - Mar-Quesa - 41 ft ✅

Dream of Sea Fishing But Don't Have a Boat? Book
Private
41 ft

Mahi-Mahi (Dorado) – Punta Cana Fishing Charters

Dolphins are not dolphins. Unlike mammals, dolphins have fins. The dolphinfish most likely got its confusing common name when it was previously classified as a genus of dolphins. It also has a melon-shaped head, just like a real dolphin. In modern classification systems, fish belong to the genus Coryphaena.

When a restaurant says «dolphin» on the menu, it refers to dolphin fish, not mammals. Some restaurants use the alternative names mahi-mahi and pompano to avoid confusion.

Fast Facts: Dolphin Fish

  • Scientific NameCoryphaena hippurus (common dolphin fish); Coryphaena equiselis (pompano dolphin fish)
  • Other Names: Dolphinfish, dolphin, mahi-mahi, dorado, pompano
  • Distinguishing Features: Brilliantly colored fish with single dorsal fin spanning the length of the body; males have protruding foreheads
  • Average Size: 1 meter in length and up to 40 kilograms (88 lb) weight
  • Diet: Carnivorous
  • Life Span: Up to 5 years, but usually less than 2 years
  • Habitat: Temperate, subtropical, and tropical oceans worldwide
  • Conservation Status: Least Concern
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Actinopterygii
  • Order: Perciformes
  • Family: Coryphaenidae
  • Fun Fact: The dolphin fish is a very fast swimmer, reaching speeds of nearly 60 mph.

Description

Pompano dolphins are sometimes confused with young common dolphins or mahi mahi due to their small size, reaching up to 127 cm (50 in). Pomfret is light blue-green with silver-gold sides. When the fish dies, the color fades to a dull gray-green color. A typical mahi mahi is 1 meter long and weighs 7–13 kg (15–29 lb), with catches exceeding 18 kg (40 lb). These fish have vibrant shades of blue, green and gold. The pectoral fins are iridescent blue, the back is green and blue, and the sides are silvery gold. Some people train red dots. When it comes out of the water, the fish is golden brown (hence the name Dorado). After death, the color changes to yellow-gray.
Take a Look at Our

Most Popular Tours

Punta Cana Fishing Charters - Sobre Las Olas - 42 ft ✅

Dream of Sea Fishing But Don't Have a Boat? Book
Private
42 ft

Punta Cana Fishing Charters - Divina - 35 ft ✅

Want to Go Sea Fishing But Don't Have a Boat?
Private
35 ft

Punta Cana Fishing Charters - Mar-Quesa - 41 ft ✅

Dream of Sea Fishing But Don't Have a Boat? Book
Private
41 ft