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Striped Marlin

Kajikia audax

Also known as

Pacific Striped Marlin, Striper, Speardish

About the Striped Marlin

The Striped Marlin is a magnificent pelagic fish, instantly recognizable by its long, pointed bill and the vibrant, iridescent blue stripes that often flash along its flanks when excited. Its dorsal side is a deep blue, transitioning to silvery-white on its belly, built for incredible speed and agility. Reaching impressive sizes, with a maximum recorded length of 4.2 meters (13.8 ft) and a weight of up to 190 kg (420 lb), it is a formidable and highly sought-after game fish.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

These ocean wanderers inhabit the open waters of tropical and temperate Indo-Pacific oceans, typically ranging from nearshore reefs to the vast open sea. They prefer areas not far from the surface, often congregating around oceanic islands, seamounts, and current lines where baitfish are abundant.

Distribution

Their extensive geographic range covers the entire Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern Pacific off the Americas to the coasts of Africa, and throughout the islands of Oceania. They are highly migratory, following warm ocean currents and baitfish movements across vast distances.

Behaviour

Striped Marlins are aggressive and active daytime predators, hunting in the top 100 meters of the water column, often near the surface. They feed on a variety of prey, including schooling baitfish, squid, and crustaceans. Renowned for their spectacular aerial acrobatics and blistering runs when hooked, they offer an unparalleled angling challenge.

Edibility

★★★★★

The meat of the Striped Marlin is firm, white, and boasts a mild, delicious flavor, making it excellent for grilling, searing, or smoking. While highly prized as a sport fish, it also provides superb table fare, often compared favorably to swordfish.

Lure suggestion

For Striped Marlin, trolling a spread of colourful skirted lures is incredibly effective, varying sizes and depths to mimic local bait. Live bait, such as mackerel, skipjack tuna, or scad, slow-trolled or presented via kite, is also a prime tactic. Focus efforts around current lines, temperature breaks, and areas showing signs of baitfish.