Marlin and More: A Guide to Big Game Fishing From Your Boat

Sandy Allen

18 Nov 2024 — 4 min read

Photo: Pixabay

From marlin, tuna and mahi-mahi to swordfish, snapper, king salmon and wahoo, big game fishing is an exhilarating pursuit. Anglers can hook some of the ocean's most formidable creatures while exploring the world’s waterways from their boat.

Keep reading to discover some tips and techniques before you leave the private boat slip rental, marina or charter fishing fleet.

1. Prepare Your Boat

Photo: Wikimedia/Smudger888/CC by SA 2.0

Size & Type: Your boat should be at least 25-30 feet long for offshore trips and have a stable hull, ample storage and rod holders. A sportfish or center console boat is ideal.
Safety Equipment: Offshore fishing requires a well-stocked boat. Carry life jackets, a first-aid kit, a VHF radio, GPS, EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) and a backup engine or trolling motor.
Fishing Gear Storage: Invest in tackle boxes and rod racks to keep everything secure and easily accessible when you leave your marina, ramp or private boat dock for rent.

2. Choose the Right Tackle

Rods & Reels: Use heavy-duty rods (50-130 lb class) paired with high-capacity, big game reels. Two-speed reels are preferred for fighting powerful fish like tuna and marlin.
Line & Leader: Braided lines with a high breaking strength (80-130 lb) are common. To prevent break-offs, use fluorocarbon leaders (150-300 lb).
Terminal Tackle: Include strong hooks, snap swivels and big game lures like trolling skirts, plugs or rigged ballyhoo.

3. Bait and Lures

Live Bait: Large, lively baits like mackerel, herring or bonito are perfect for enticing marlin, tuna and sailfish.
Artificial Lures: Trolling lures like spreader bars, daisy chains and teasers mimic baitfish and attract big game fish when trolled at various speeds.

4. Master Trolling Techniques

Trolling Setup: Use outriggers to spread your lines and avoid tangles. Set up a mix of lures and baits at different depths and distances.
Speed: Adjust your trolling speed based on the target species. Tuna and marlin often require 6-10 knots, while slower speeds (3-5 knots) work for wahoo and sailfish.

5. Find the Hot Spots

Photo: Wikimedia/Kate Crandell/CC by SA 2.0

Look for Indicators: Diving birds, floating debris, temperature breaks and underwater structures (reef drop-offs) are signs of fish presence.
GPS & Fish Finder: Use a GPS and sonar to locate schools of baitfish and track depth and water temperature.

6. The Fight: Hooking and Reeling In

Setting the Hook: When a fish strikes, let it take the bait briefly before setting the hook firmly. Use the boat’s momentum to help set the hook.
Fight Technique: Alternate between high and low gear on your reel. Keep the rod tip up, using your legs and back to absorb the fish’s runs. Be prepared for long battles, especially with species like bluefin tuna or marlin.
Landing the Fish: As the fish tires, guide it toward the boat where you can hoist it inside to take it back to the dock or private boat lift rental. Use a gaff to secure the fish, or release it carefully if you're practicing catch-and-release.

7. Conservation and Ethics

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Catch and Release: Use circle hooks to reduce injury. If you're not keeping the fish, release it carefully. Handle the fish minimally and support their body weight in the water before release.
Know the Regulations: To protect fish populations, stay informed about local fishing laws, size limits and seasonal closures.

Big Game Fishing Destinations

Final Tips

Stay Safe: Weather can change rapidly offshore. Check the forecast before heading out from your private boat slip rental or marina. Always inform someone of your trip details with a float plan.
Bring a Buddy: Big game fishing can be physically demanding. Having an extra pair of hands will make the trip safer and more enjoyable.