Mahi Mahi trolling inshore

Question
Hey,

Im interested in trying to catch some Mahi Mahi inshore/offshore in the pt. pleasant, NJ area, I would be leaving from Manasquan inlet, and was wondering if you were familiar with the area or knew any direction I should be heading towards.  I have a 20ft. center console and probably should not got any further than 25 miles offshore.  Also any particular baits that I should use and or trolling lures that I should use, as well as what lb test line and rod and reel outfits I should use.  Thank your very much for your time, any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Joe,

Not familiar with the area.

However, I can give you some advise on catching Mahi mahi.

They love squid, and a sure fire way of catching them is by drifting with whole squid (around 4 inches) to floating debris or any offshore structure.

lures of up to 6 inches are happily stuck, however don't go fancy with them and bust out your marlin lure, a simple japhead with feathers are killers for these fish. Plugs like Rapala CD14s are really good, however, when you hook a fish, be very extra careful because they flop around a lot.

20lbs test line is good fun when used in mahi mahi, but depending on your skill, you can go down to 10 or even 8lbs test for more fun!

hope this helps, and thanks for asking.

Kit