Dolphin Fishing - Angling Techniques

Key Points of Summary on Dolphin Fishing - Angling Techniques

• Dolphin fishing, also known as mahi mahi fishing, requires specific techniques to catch multiple fish from a school
• The rotation system involves at least two anglers and a steady food supply to keep the dolphin near the boat
• Hooking the first dolphin and keeping it in the water is crucial to attract the school
• Positioning, chumming, and chunking are key elements of the systematic approach
• Monitoring the health of the first hooked fish is essential to prevent the school from scattering
• The angler rotation technique is effective on both large sport yachts and center consoles

Dolphin fishing, also known as mahi mahi fishing, is an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers. However, when it comes to catching multiple fish from a school, there's a method to the madness. The science behind it is explained in this In The Spread fishing video, and we dive deep into the techniques for your learning benefit.

The Rotation System

When it comes to successfully catching a school of dolphin fish that appear behind your boat, having the right number of anglers and employing a well-coordinated rotation system is crucial. While it's possible to catch some fish with just one angler, having at least two anglers on board significantly increases your chances of maximizing your catch. Three or more anglers is even better, as it allows for a more efficient and effective rotation.

The rotation style system is specifically designed to take advantage of the short window of opportunity when the dolphin school is behind your boat. By having multiple anglers ready to cast their lines, you can quickly and continuously present baits to the fish, enticing them to bite and increasing your overall catch.

Time is of the essence when a school of dolphin appears behind your boat. These fish move quickly and can disappear just as fast as they arrived. It's crucial to act swiftly and decisively when you spot them. Hesitation or lack of preparation can result in missed opportunities and a significantly reduced catch.

Knowledge and experience play a vital role in successfully implementing the rotation system. Anglers who understand the behavior of dolphin fish, the importance of maintaining a steady food supply, and the proper techniques for hooking and landing these fish will have a distinct advantage. They can anticipate the school's movements, adjust their strategies on the fly, and make the most of every opportunity.

In summary, having at least two anglers, and ideally three or more, is essential for maximizing your catch when a school of dolphin appears behind your boat. The rotation style system, combined with quick action and knowledge of the fish and proper techniques, sets experienced anglers apart and allows them to make the most of these exciting fishing opportunities.

The key components of the rotation system are:

1. Number of Anglers
2. Purpose
3. Key Point

Dolphin Fishing Technique Explained

Recall the steady food discussion from our chumming and chunking video. Your menhaden oil, chum, and chunks create the food chain that keeps the dolphin near your boat. This is essential for the rotation system to work flawlessly.

1. Hooking the First Dolphin: Once you hook your initial dolphin and it's clearly visible and well-hooked near your boat, keep it in the water. Don't rush to pull it out.
2. Preparation: Squirt oil into the water and drop your chum bag overboard. As the school approaches, toss in a few chunks to entice them. If you maintain a steady food supply, the dolphin will stay. They're primarily there to eat.

Note: At this stage, you're set. No need to bring the first mahi mahi into the boat or switch it with the next fish you hook. Keep it visible and place the rod in the rod holder. Your food chain is in motion, and you're prepared to start the fishing rotation.

More Techniques for Mahi

1. Positioning: Whichever side of the boat your first dolphin is on (where the rod is in its holder), that's where you should have the chum bag and where you should be tossing chunks.
2. The Systematic Approach:

• Toss a chunk away from the school, towards the other side of the boat.
• When a fish moves towards it, cast your baited hook in that direction.
• Once hooked, let your fish move away from the school and the boat. Don't apply too much pressure; you can almost guide the fish in.
• Keep your chunking program consistent. Once that fish is near and you can gaff it, toss another chunk away from the school and follow with another baited hook.

A Little More Technique

1. Feeding: The most crucial person on your boat is the one tossing chunks to the dolphin school behind your boat. If you mess up the feeding, the fish might leave as quickly as they arrived. The key is to fight one fish at a time. Once you've caught a dolphin, drop the next baited hook in the water. Repeat until you've caught them all. You can almost train the dolphin to follow your lead.
2. Monitoring: Remember the very first fish you hooked? It's still in the rod holder. If it starts looking unhealthy or turns yellow, replace it with a freshly hooked fish. If your initial fish weakens, the school might get nervous and scatter. Monitor that fish closely.

Applicability

This angler rotation technique for dolphin fishing is effective on both large sport yachts and center consoles. While there might be minor differences to consider, the core principle remains the same: food is the key. Master this system, integrate it into your dolphin fishing routine, and you'll likely see a significant improvement in your success rate.

When it comes to dolphin fishing, the rotation system is a proven method for catching multiple fish from a school. By maintaining a steady food supply and employing the systematic approach of chumming, chunking, and baiting, you can keep the school near your boat and maximize your catch.

Fishing for mahi requires patience, skill, and the right techniques. With the angler rotation system, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a thrilling day on the water. Remember, the key to catching dolphin fish is to act quickly when they appear behind your boat and to maintain a consistent food chain.

Conclusion

By mastering the angler rotation system and employing the right techniques for catching mahi, you can elevate your dolphin fishing experience and enjoy a successful day on the water. Remember, knowledge and quick action are key when it comes to how to catch dolphin. Happy fishing!