Buying Guide for the Best Mahi Mahi Trolling Lures
Choosing the right trolling lures for mahi-mahi (also known as dolphinfish) can significantly increase your chances of a successful fishing trip. The key to picking lures is to understand how mahi-mahi behave, what attracts them, and how to match your lure to the conditions and your equipment. A good starting point is knowing your fishing technique, where you'll be trolling (deep sea or nearshore), and the typical size of mahi-mahi in those waters. Learning about the key specifications of trolling lures will help you make an informed choice.Lure SizeLure size refers to the overall length and girth of the lure. Larger lures tend to appeal to bigger mahi-mahi, while smaller lures can attract a wider range of sizes. For serious trophy fishing, a longer lure can be the way to go, but if you want more action and are fishing where both small and large mahi-mahi are possible, a mid-sized lure offers versatility. Your rod and reel setup should also match your lure size to ensure effective trolling.
Lure ColorLure color is the visual appearance of your lure in the water. It's important because different water conditions and light levels can make certain colors more visible or attractive to fish. Bright and flashy colors like pink, green, or chartreuse tend to work well in clear, sunny conditions, while darker or more natural colors can be effective in overcast or murky water. If you're not sure what conditions you'll face, choosing a lure with a mix of bright and natural colors is a safe bet.
Lure Head TypeThe head type of the lure affects how it moves and creates bubbles or vibrations in the water. Common head types include bullet, chugger, and slant. A bullet-shaped head runs straight and fast, great for calm conditions or high-speed trolling. Chugger heads push more water and create splashes, making them highly visible in rougher waters. Slant heads swim with an erratic action that can provoke strikes from aggressive mahi-mahi. Think about the typical sea conditions and how active the fish are where you're fishing to choose the right head type.
RiggingRigging describes how the lure is prepared before use, including the hook size, positioning, and leader material. Proper rigging ensures the lure runs correctly and increases your chances of hooking and landing fish. If you're targeting larger mahi-mahi, stronger hooks and heavier leaders help prevent break-offs. Pre-rigged lures are great for beginners, while experienced anglers might customize rigging to suit their preferences. Always check the quality and sharpness of hooks before heading out.
WeightLure weight determines how deep the lure will run and how well it holds its position at different trolling speeds. Heavier lures typically stay under the surface better at higher speeds or in rougher seas, while lighter lures are great for calm conditions and slow trolling. Matching lure weight to your trolling speed, sea state, and target depth will make your presentations more effective.
ActionAction refers to how the lure moves in the water. Some lures create lots of commotion, making noise and splashes, while others swim subtly or even dart erratically. Mahi-mahi are known to be attracted to both lively and subtle actions depending on the day, so having lures with a variety of actions can help you adapt to the fish’s mood. Observe how the lure performs behind your boat, and don’t be afraid to swap lures if you’re not getting bites.