Saltwater Fish - Dolphin

Dolphin

Coryphaena hippurus

Distinguishing Markings:

Bright greenish blue above, yellow on sides, with the capability of flashing purple, chartreuse, and a wide range of other colors. The body tapers sharply from head to tail with irregular blue or golden blotches scattered over sides. They have a deeply forked tail. The anterior profile of adult males’ heads is nearly vertical; females are more sloping. The single long, dark dorsal fin extends from just behind the head to the tail; the anal fin margin is concave and extending from anus to tail.

Size:

Common 4 to 30 pounds, up to 80 pounds

Distribution:

Dolphin inhabit blue-water environs, roaming the open ocean, commonly found around objects and debris

Habitat:

Offshore in warm water

Food Preference:

Flying fish and squid

Spawning:

Spawns in warm ocean currents throughout much of the year; young found in sargassum weed

Fishing Tips:

One of the fastest-growing fish, thought to live no more than 5 years; swimming speed is estimated at 50 knots. A hard fighting species, the dolphin is one of the top offshore gamefish. Use big game outfits with rigged trolling baits on large hooks-- flyingfish, mullets, and squid are effective. Troll plugs and feathers at quick speeds. Dolphin are inquisitive and will follow a hooked member of the school up to the side of the boat.

See Also:

Activity:

Saltwater Fishing

Saltwater Fish - Dolphin

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