Common names
Atlantic white marlin, Marlin, Skilligalee
White marlin
Kajikia albida
- Saltwater
- Vulnerable
Max length118 in
Common length82.75 in
Length typeLower Jaw
Max weight180 lb 12 oz
Depth range0 - 492 ft
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
White marlin have a bill that is round in cross-section and distinctly forked caudal fin. Their body structure is designed for fast swimming with a long, streamlined appearance. The colouring of white marlin is used as countershading, with a dark blue back fading to a dirty white on the sides and belly. Though all white marlin have the same colouring pattern, they are sexually dimorphic, with the females usually larger. One of the most noticeable features of white marlin is the dorsal fin, which extends along the majority of the dorsal portion of its body. The dorsal fin is dark blue with noticeable black spots. Behind the large primary dorsal fin is the secondary dorsal fin, which is made up of five to six rays. White marlin have a set of similar pectoral fins and pelvic fins. These two sets of fins are round and wide at the tip. They also have two anal fins which can be used for identification between species. The lateral line on this species is prominent, with a hump above the pectoral fin and extending the length of the fish toward the caudal fin.
Habitat
They are offshore pelagic and oceanic fish.
Distribution
White marlin are found throughout warmer waters of the Atlantic between 45°N to 45°S. In the western Atlantic found from Nova Scotia to Argentina, including the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Behaviour
Considered a highly migratory species. They use their bill to stun fast-moving fishes. Will consume any prey they can find that is manageable for their size, schooling flyingfish, small tuna, mahi-mahi (dolphinfish, dorado), and squid are the preferred prey. They migrate to warm, shallow, equatorial waters each year to spawn.
Edibility
Good, the flesh of the white marlin is white and firm, with a mild flavour. It is often compared to swordfish or tuna. May contain elevated mercury levels.
Lure suggestion
Targeting white marlin is best done while dead-bait trolling (skirted ballyhoo rig), but they will also take soft-head trolling lures. Good bait: goggle-eyes, sardines, herrings, ballyhoo (work best), mullet.
Similar species
Other similar species
Blue marlin, M. nigricans (dorsal fin pointed and lacks spots tips of pectoral and anal fins pointed), Longbill spearfish, T. pfluegeri (dorsal fin raised in front, then dips slightly, but remains somewhat high)