May is here and so are the “green ones” that we have been waiting for. This
is the time of the month when we start seeing the larger schools of dolphin
running through our area.  Here are a few tips to help you out.

The biggest thing I noticed in the last several years is that everyone
seems to pass the fish to go find the fish! There’s no reason why we need
to run to 300 feet of water to start trolling. Sometimes yes, that’s where
they are but so many times they’re on a weed line or color break in
100-120.  How many times have you caught Mahi on 8A or pelican in 85 feet?
I had a few this month already.

Both color and temperature changes and weed lines are a key factor in
Mahi.  Yes, there are those days that you don’t see a thing and your blind
trolling in the middle of no where and subsequently there are days that
you’re on the best looking color change or weed line and you can’t get a
hit. I guess that’s why they say its fishing and not catching.  As you’re
riding out and you start to get to your 90/100 foot start looking at your
machine for some temperature changes, weed line, rips or that pallet. Start
shallow and work your way out.  Give each area a little time. (Unless your
buddy says get out to 220, NOW!).

There are many types of bait you can use. Ballyhoo with a single hook; some
use them rigged with double hooks some use naked and some with big skirts.
Bonita strips work well and don’t forget about live bait!  Basically Mahi
eat anything. I’m sure a good presentation is a key factor as well.
Lately, I started to use my light tackle king gear with live pogies.  Most
fish are smaller anyway so why not have fun on the light tackle? Be sure to
have a few pitch rods handy and ready. Use live bait or whatever dead bait
you have on the boat and get it in front of the fish. Most times they will
eat it.

Fun facts:

Mahi have been found from Canada to Brazil, west coast to east coast and
almost every ocean in the world. Average lifespan of the fish is 5 years.
They are constantly breeding. Believe it or not average weight is only 5
lbs. but they can reach 50. The largest caught on rod and reel was in 1975
Costa Rica at 87lbs.  Mahi can reach speeds of 50mph. They eat anything and
they’re great eating too! A 4oz Mahi filet is only 100 calories and 92%
protein. Mahi Mahi means strong strong in Hawaiian.

Good luck this month and I hope you all catch em up!
—
*Capt. Chris Cameron*
www.firedupcharters.com
*Cell: 407-222-3573*