Blue Marlin

Makaira nigricans

Managed by:
NMFS

Physical description:

The blue marlin is one of the largest gamefish caught in the Atlantic Ocean. Individuals may exceed 13 feet and weigh over 1,300 pounds. The body is dark blue to chocolate brown along the back and upper sides, changing to silvery white on the belly. Along the sides there are approximately 15 pale blue vertical bars. Blue marlin may be distinguished from white marlin by the dorsal and anal fins, and by fish size. The dorsal and anal fin of the blue marlin are pointed, whereas white marlin have rounded fins. The first dorsal fin of the blue marlinis much shorter relative to the body depth when compared to the white marlin. Any marlin cuaght off the southeastern United States weighing over 150 pounds is almost certainly a blue marlin.

Biological description:

The species is found throughout much of the western Atlantic, seasonally ranging in latitude from about 45°N to35°S. Males reach sexual maturity at a weight of about 76 pounds, and females at a weight between 103 to 135 pounds. Blue marlin spawn between July and September in the North Atlantic region, and February through march in the South Atlantic region. Blue marlin fees on squid and a vaiety of pelagic fishes. Scientist argue whether the bill is used for feeding, however divers have reported seeing marlins not only stun prey with their bills, but also use them to spear fish.

South Atlantic Federal Regulations

(For areas three-200 miles off the coasts of NC, SC, GA, and East Florida)

Blue marlin are managed by the Highly Migratory Division of the National Marine Fisheries Service in Silver Spring, MD. For more information on federal regulations for Highly Migratory Species (sharks, swordfish, billfish & tunas) call the HMS Automated toll free line at: 1-800/894-5528 or contact NMFS at (301) 713-2347.