Blue Marlin

Illustration of a Blue Marlin by local Key West marine artist

The Blue Marlin is common to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This wide-ranging ocean migrator is known for capturing the attention of serious deep sea sport fishermen. Ernest Hemingway is perhaps best known of the many people who spent huge amounts of time and energy in pursuit of this magnificent fish. Even with sophisticated heavy tackle a marlin fight can last several hours with the outcome never certain.

For years, these fish were often killed so that anglers could have their picture taken with the fish back at the docks. This type of thinking has changed as anglers and officials in charge have worked to protect this prized catch. This fish is now always released unharmed, and able to fight (and more importantly, reproduce) in the future. Positive results are now noted as record catches have been reported in tournaments in Louisiana, the Virgin Islands, and Key West.

The best months to fish for marlin in the Florida Straits is May-June and September-October.