How to Catch a Dorado Fish?

Dorado (or mahi-mahi as they are called in some places, or dolphin fish in others) are one of the world’s most popular gamefish, and it’s no mystery why. They are spectacularly colored, fight hard and jump when hooked, and taste delicious. If you’re wondering how to catch a Dorado fish, this guide covers everything from tackle to bait and techniques.

Dorado Tackle

Any medium-weight conventional setup should work fine. A Shimano Trinidad 16N is a good reel for casting. Unfortunately, Dorado are often hooked when trolling with heavy tackle meant for larger fish such as Marlin, so they are totally outmatched and don’t get a chance to show what they’re made of. This is one of the great tragedies of sportfishing. If you hook a 30lb+ Dorado on a lighter saltwater baitcasting rod and reel, you’re in for quite a fight.

Dorado Techniques

Dorado are an open-water species that often associate with floating debris such as logs. In areas where Dorado are present, any floating object is worth checking, as it may concentrate the fish. If you have anything to chum with, that can really get them going. While they’re considered pelagic fish, they can occasionally be caught from shore.

Dorado Lures

Most Dorado are caught on trolling lures such as rubber skirts meant for Marlin or Sailfish, or feathers meant for Tuna. They also hit trolled plugs like Rapalas. It’s amazing how large of a lure they’ll eat — they are a greedy fish.

If Dorado are concentrated in an area, either due to chumming or floating debris, a wide variety of lures may be cast to them. A favorite is the popper, which they readily eat. If they’re fired up, they’ll eat almost anything. Just be cautious with heavier lures — Dorado jump wildly when hooked and the lure could come flying back dangerously.

Dorado Baits

Dorado mostly eat other fish, so traditional baitfish such as sardines and Pacific mackerel work well. Larger Dorado will go for larger baits. Even with relatively small mouths, they can engulf surprisingly big offerings. When they’re fired up, they’ll eat almost anything — alive or dead.

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Also interested in wingshooting? Don’t miss our Dove Hunting Tips to complete your outdoor adventure.

(Source: www.howtocatchanyfish.com)