WHITE MARLIN ( Tetrapturus albidus) The smallest and lightest colored of the marlin family. Although somewhat comparable in color to blue marlin, the white marlin can be distinguished from the blue, as they will show some green and may also appear dark blue to deep brown. The underbelly is silvery white. The white marlin has angled stripes down the flanks like other marlins, but has a rounded edge on the dorsal, pectoral and anal fins.

IGFA All Tackle Record Weight: M-15 kg (30lb) 82.50 kg (181lb 14oz) Vitoria, Brazil 12/08/1979 Evandro Luiz Coser

Typical Range: Atlantic ocean along the eastern seaboard of North and South America from Nova Scotia through the Caribbean and down to Brazil. Whites are a highly migratory species. They will reach the higher latitudes of their range with seasonally warmer temperatures. Preferring the deep, blue, temperate to tropical water above the ocean thermocline, white marlin normally roam the ocean at depths between 300 and 500 feet. While distribution and location are closely linked to temperature, they are also influenced by sea floor topography. White marlin are found in largest numbers around steep drop offs near the edge of the continental shelf and around oceanic mountains and canyons. They also like rips, the areas linking different bodies of water.

Common Tackle: Tackle is generally in the 20- to 30- pound range with 12 to 20 lb test is tops for sport. Fly-fishing has grown in popularity. The smallest of the marlin, whites make for some of the best light-tackle saltwater fishing .

Common Fishing Method: Trolling live or dead baits and lures is definitely the most common angling method for white marlin. Small to medium 6" to 12" skirted lures with either hard or soft heads trolled at speed 6-12 knots is effective. Trolling live baits around bait schools on which marlin are feeding and the sink and swim method. Fly Fish using the bait and switch method of teasing with hookless lures or bait and then cast fly.

Common Baits: The three categories of productive baits are artificial lures, live baits and rigged natural baits. White marlin will feed on whatever baitfish are available to them. Some common favorites include squid, herring, and sardines. Live baits may include mackerel,mullet,ballyhoo and local baitfish. Dead baits may include ballyhoo rigged with squid covering, squid, mullet and chub mackerl. Artificial lures such as feathered jigs and plastic squids are also popular and effective.