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How to Rig for Blue Marlin

Makaira nigricans

Blue marlin are the ultimate offshore trophy, roaming warm blue water far offshore off the US, Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand. Most are caught trolling large skirted lures at speed, with live-baiting small tuna around bait schools and FADs as the main alternative. Heavy stand-up or chair tackle, a skilled crew, and a clean release with the fish revived at the side of the boat are standard.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Offshore Lure Trolling Rig
Best bait
Skirted lures 8-14in trolled at 7-9 knots in a spread of four to six
Where
boat
Typical size
72–140 in
Season
Peak season: summer
Main line from outriggerBall-bearing swivelWind-on leader 12-20ftCrimpSkirted lureHookTowed at 6-9 knots
#1 Best Match

Offshore Lure Trolling Rig

advancedboat

Skirted lures on long, heavy mono leaders are towed behind a moving boat at 6-9 knots in a spread of four to six lines, searching open water for fish that are too scattered to find by drifting. It is the main way marlin, tuna, and wahoo are caught offshore in the US, Australia, and New Zealand.

  • Main line30-130 lb monofilament or braid with a mono top shot, line class matched to the target
  • Leader80-400 lb monofilament wind-on leader, crimped; short wire trace for wahoo
  • Leader length12-20ft wind-on leader, lure crimped to the end
  • Hooks8/0 - 12/0 single or two-hook lure rig on a 300 - 400lb wind-on leader
  • WeightNone, the lure head keeps it tracking; an in-line trolling lead (4-16oz) only if you want it deeper
  • Line to sinkerNot applicable, lures run at or near the surface off outriggers and the transom
  • BaitSkirted lures 8-14in trolled at 7-9 knots in a spread of four to six
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Heavy main lineSwivel or wind-onLeader60-200 lbCircle hookLive bait, floss bridlethrough the nose or eye sockets
Heavy Live Bait Rig
A big non-offset circle hook is bridled through the nose or eye sockets of a live mackerel, scad, or small tuna with floss, so the bait swims freely and the hook stays clear to set in the corner of the jaw.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗NOAA Fisheries / state agencies ↗State and territory fisheries agencies ↗Fisheries New Zealand ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Blue Marlin?

The Offshore Lure Trolling Rig is the top recommendation for Blue Marlin. Skirted lures on long, heavy mono leaders are towed behind a moving boat at 6-9 knots in a spread of four to six lines, searching open water for fish that are too scattered to find by drifting. It is the main way marlin, tuna, and wahoo are caught offshore in the US, Australia, and New Zealand.

What bait works for Blue Marlin?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Blue Marlin.

When is the best time to catch Blue Marlin?

Peak season: summer. Typical size runs 72–140 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Blue Marlin?

Blue Marlin is caught while boat fishing. Blue marlin are the ultimate offshore trophy, roaming warm blue water far offshore off the US, Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand. Most are caught trolling large skirted lures at speed, with live-baiting small tuna around bait schools and FADs as the main alternative. Heavy stand-up or chair tackle, a skilled crew, and a clean release with the fish revived at the side of the boat are standard.