TideAhead

Saltwater Species Guide

Pacific Blue Marlin

Makaira nigricans

A tropical Pacific billfish and signature Hawaiian trolling target, usually tagged and released in tournaments.

Also Known As:A‘uKajiki
Pacific blue marlin identification illustration
NOAA Fisheries / Jack Hornady · U.S. government educational illustration · Image Source

Species Quick Facts

Common Angling Water

74–84°F

Approximate productive range, not a biological limit.

Typical Catch

Encounter size varies widely from smaller fish to several hundred pounds

Maximum Reported Size

More than 12 feet and up to about 2,000 pounds

Best Baits & Lures

Best Baits
  • Skipjack tuna
  • Mackerel
  • Rigged ballyhoo
Best Lures
  • Large trolling skirts
  • Plunger lures
  • Heavy trolling plugs
Habitat

Warm offshore surface water near current boundaries, seamounts, steep island drop-offs, and pelagic bait concentrations.

How To Catch Pacific Blue Marlin

Troll a balanced spread across current edges, contour changes, and productive blue water. Use tackle and a release plan matched to a very large billfish, and keep the bill away from people at boatside.

TideAhead Destinations

Harbor Guides For Pacific Blue Marlin

HI

Honolulu & Oahu

A tropical pelagic fishery where ahi, mahi-mahi, and ono may be found close to steep island drop-offs.

Open Harbor Guide HI

Hilo & East Hawaii

A windward Hawaii port near steep pelagic water and productive coastal ledges.

Open Harbor Guide HI

Kahului & Maui

Maui access to shoreline structure, fast island channels, and pelagic water.

Open Harbor Guide HI

Nawiliwili & Kauai

Kauai's main harbor offers quick access to deep Pacific pelagic habitat.

Open Harbor Guide AS

Pago Pago & Tutuila

A deep South Pacific harbor surrounded by tuna and other pelagic habitat.

Open Harbor Guide GU

Apra Harbor & Guam

Guam's principal harbor opens onto reef edges and deep western Pacific water.

Open Harbor Guide

Species Sources

TideAhead summarizes stable identification, biology, habitat, and angling concepts. Use the primary sources below for deeper species context and live management information.