Mahi-Mahi Fishing NJ
The most colorful and acrobatic fish in the Atlantic. Chase mahi-mahi in the offshore canyons during summer for world-class action.
Mahi-mahi (also called dolphin fish or dorado) are the crown jewel of offshore fishing. These stunning fish display electric blues, greens, and yellows, and fight with incredible speed and acrobatics. When you hook a mahi, expect tailwalks, screaming runs, and non-stop action until it hits the deck.
Book an Offshore Charter
Canyon trips targeting mahi-mahi run during summer months. Book early for July and August dates when mahi action is at its peak.
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About Mahi-Mahi
The Fish
Mahi-mahi are fast-growing pelagic fish that follow warm currents. They can reach 50+ lbs, though 10-25 lb fish are more common in NJ waters. Bulls (males) have a distinctive blunt forehead.
Why NJ?
The Gulf Stream brings warm water and baitfish close to the NJ coast in summer. Mahi follow, congregating around floating debris and weedlines where food is abundant.
The Fight
Mahi are renowned fighters - fast runs, spectacular jumps, and the colors that flash when fighting. They often travel in schools, so multiple hookups are common.
Mahi-Mahi Season Calendar
June
⭐⭐⭐Early season. Mahi start appearing as water warms. Hit or miss depending on conditions.
💡 Watch sea surface temperature maps for warm water eddies.
July
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Prime mahi season begins. Consistent action around weedlines and debris.
💡 Best month for numbers. Look for floating debris.
August
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Peak season continues. Largest fish of the year often caught.
💡 Trophy mahi over 30 lbs possible. Fish early morning.
September
⭐⭐⭐Season winding down. Still good action but fewer fish around.
💡 Water cooling - mahi move south. Last chance before fall.
Where to Find Mahi
Mahi-mahi are found in the offshore canyons along the continental shelf edge. These areas concentrate bait and provide the warm water mahi prefer.
Hudson Canyon
65-80 milesThe closest major canyon to most NJ ports. Mahi congregate around weedlines and floating debris along the warm water edge.
Toms Canyon
55-65 milesSlightly closer run with good mahi action when warm water pushes in. Look for color changes and weed patches.
Wilmington Canyon
70-90 milesPopular from Cape May. Known for excellent mahi fishing along weedlines during peak summer months.
The Fingers
50-60 milesUnderwater ridges that attract bait and predators. Often holds mahi earlier in the season when water warms.
Book a Mahi Charter
Belmar
Canyon Eagle Fleet offers overnight trips targeting mahi and tuna
View boats →Cape May
Closest access to southern canyons with excellent mahi fishing
View boats →Atlantic City
Farley State Marina offshore fleet runs canyon trips for mahi
View boats →Book a Fishing Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
Mahi Fishing Tips
Look for floating debris
Mahi love structure. Floating boards, pallets, weed patches, and buckets all attract mahi. When you see debris offshore, fish it thoroughly.
Keep one fish in the water
Mahi are schooling fish. When you hook one, keep it in the water alongside the boat to hold the school. Other fish will stay close to their hooked schoolmate.
Use bright colors
Mahi are attracted to bright colors - chartreuse, pink, blue, and green. Trolling spreads with colorful lures increase your chances.
Watch for birds
Frigate birds and terns often follow mahi schools. When you see diving birds offshore, investigate - there may be fish underneath.
Be ready for fast action
When mahi show up, the action can be intense. Have multiple rods rigged and ready. Keep live bait in the well for casting to schools.
Mahi Charter Pricing
Full-Day Offshore
$1,500-2,500
Private charter, up to 6 anglers
Overnight Canyon
$2,500-3,500
Extended trip for best action
Per Person (Split)
$300-600
Share trip with other anglers
Mahi are often caught on multi-species trips targeting tuna and other offshore fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for mahi-mahi fishing in NJ?
Mahi-mahi season in NJ runs from June through September, with July and August being peak months. These tropical fish follow warm Gulf Stream waters and appear in the offshore canyons when water temperatures rise above 68°F.
How far offshore do you catch mahi in NJ?
Mahi-mahi are found 50-80 miles offshore in the waters near the continental shelf edge. Canyon trips to Hudson, Toms, or Wilmington canyons are where you will find mahi around weedlines, debris, and floating structure.
What are the NJ mahi-mahi regulations?
There is no minimum size limit and no bag limit for mahi-mahi (dolphinfish) in New Jersey federal waters. However, responsible anglers practice conservation by keeping only what they will eat.
How much does a mahi charter cost in NJ?
Offshore trips that target mahi-mahi typically cost $1,500-2,500 for full-day charters or $2,500-3,500 for overnight canyon expeditions. Mahi are often caught on trips targeting tuna and other offshore species.
What techniques work best for mahi-mahi?
Trolling with ballyhoo, squid, and colorful lures is the primary method. When a school is located, you can cast live bait or pitch lures to the fish. Mahi are aggressive and often bite multiple baits when feeding.
Are mahi-mahi good to eat?
Mahi-mahi is considered one of the best-eating fish in the ocean. The firm, white flesh is mild and sweet, perfect for grilling, blackening, or making fish tacos. Fresh mahi is far superior to anything you will find in stores.
Book Your Mahi Adventure
Summer offshore trips fill up fast. Book now for peak mahi season in July and August.
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