Species Education

Black Marlin

The black marlin is found in the tropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans and is distinguished from other billfish by their rigid and broad pectoral fins, their small dorsal fin, and their deep blue (almost black) coloring.

Istiompax indica

Photo Provided by: Stuart Simpson

Max Size

4.5 m and 726 kg (15 ft and 1,600 lb)

CONSERVATION

STATUS : Data Deficient

Top Speed

48 kph (30 mph)

Habitat

Pacific and Indian Oceans

Behavior

Extremely migratory and aggressive

Diet

Squid and small fish

Lifespan

13 years for females 7 for males

Species Education

What are Black Marlin?

Black marlin are a species of billfish found in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. They are the second largest subspecies of Istiompax and can reach up to 4.5 m (15 ft) in length and 726 kg (1,600 lb). They get their name from their dark colored upper bodies, which fade into a silvery white on their underbellies. These fish are known for their incredible strength and stamina, as anglers can spend hours in the fighting chair when hooked up on these fish.

Species Education

Questions about Black Marlin

How big do Black Marlin get?

There is a stark difference in the maximum sizes of a male and a female black marlin. Males can grow to lengths of 2.7-3 m (9-10 ft), while females can reach lengths of over 4.5 meters (15 ft)! As a result, females are much heavier than males as well. Females can reach up to 726 kg (1,600 lb), while males rarely weigh in over 226 kg (500 lb). In a size comparison with other billfish, they are the second largest species, only second to blue marlin. The largest marlin ever caught recreationally was a staggering 707.6 kg (1,560 lb) black marlin in Peru, caught in 1953.

Can you fish for Black Marlin?

Yes! Black marlin are sought after by recreational anglers. They are known for their extreme stamina and relentless fighting ability. They are often caught while trolling, a method where bait and lures are dragged behind a slow moving boat. Black marlin are reliably caught in shallow waters, usually around 30.5 m (100 ft) deep. However, they can be caught far offshore in thousands of feet of water. The best locations for black marlin fishing are Australia, Hawaii, Mexico, and Costa Rica.

Where do Black Marlin live?

Black marlin spend their time in the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. These fish are often caught near reefs, seafloor ledges, and around islands. Black marlin are extremely migratory, having been tracked traveling thousands of miles in a year. Recreational fishing hotspots for black marlin include Costa Rica, Australia, Mexico, and Hawaii.

What do Black Marlin eat?

The diet of a juvenile black marlin starts with small fish, cuttlefish, squid, and crustaceans, before progressing to small tunas, dolphinfish (mahi mahi), and mackerel with adulthood. They are opportunistic eaters.

How do Black Marlin hunt?

Black marlin hunt using a combination of speed, countershading, agility, and their rostrum. Once they come upon their prey, black marlin use their bill to slash at and/or stun them. When their target is dazed or wounded, black marlin will circle back to consume their prey. They are known for their extreme aggression when pursuing prey.

How long do Black Marlin live for?

There are significant age and size differences between female and male black marlins, with females living to nearly twice the age of males. The estimated maximum lifespan of a male black marlin is only seven years, compared to 13 years of a female. As with any marine species, life expectancy is dependent upon a number of external environmental conditions, but sex is often the most important factor for lifespan.

How do Black Marlin reproduce?

Black marlin reproduce by broadcast spawning, a process where the females release thousands of eggs into the water, where they are externally fertilized by males.

Species Education

Black Marlin

Scientific Name

Max Size

CONSERVATION

Top Speed

Habitat

Behavior

Diet

Lifespan

Species Education

What are Black Marlin?

Species Education

Questions about Black Marlin

How big do Black Marlin get?

Can you fish for Black Marlin?

Where do Black Marlin live?

What do Black Marlin eat?

How do Black Marlin hunt?

How long do Black Marlin live for?

How do Black Marlin reproduce?

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