The Black marlin is a premiere game fish for sport fishermen. Recently the fish, which was previously known as Makaira indica, was re-classified as Istiompax indica. Although most commonly associated with the blue marlin, genetically it is most similarly related to the striped/white marlin. This re-classification also links it more closely with sailfish. No matter the classification black marlin fishing is a popular recreational activity.
Physical Descriptions
Genetically compared to the striped/white marlin and the sailfish, the black marlins are more solid than their blue counterparts. They have a shorter bill and a rounder and lower dorsal fin. They are also the only marlin from the marlin family to have rigid pectoral fins that are unable to be pressed flat against their immense body.
Diet
These gigantic fish are known as power predators. Their diet mostly consists of small tuna, cuttlefish, large crustaceans, and in general smaller fish. This is quite a generalization as most fish are smaller than this giant fish.
Fishing
Because of their size and their physique these marlins are popularly fished. Research off the coast of Australia suggests that the large creature is much easier to catch around the full moon and the week afterwards. This is due to its prey moving to the surface layers which in turn forces the marlin to hunt in a wider area.
Locations
In addition to the Australian coast, black marlin, can also be found throughout the tropical indo-pacific waters of the Pacific Ocean. They can also be found from southern California to the Gulf of California to Chile, and including the coast of all oceanic islands in between. They tend to stay in warmer waters and graze the surface. In addition to warmer waters, they also are found close to landmasses as opposed to wide open water ranges.
Fishing Tours
Because of the remarkable and boastful fight that this agile fish puts up when faced with their certain entrapment, these magnificent creatures are widely fished. These fish can be as long as fifteen feet and weigh around 1,400 pounds. Any fisherman would love to tell the tall tale of catching such a massive fish. This is why there are fishing charters that offer such fishing adventures. They are specific charters that hone in on the areas where these fish are most commonly found. They are up to date the most common lures and have tips and techniques for landing this big fish.
