DESCRIPTION: Black Marlin are diferentiated from other marlin by their robust bodies and large heads. Typically a black marlin’s body depth is greater than the hieght of it’s dorsal fin. As they name implies black marlin are much darker in color than blue marlin and have noticeable black backs and sides. Like the blues, they too have the elongated spear shaped upper jaw.

FEEDING HABITS: Black marlin also like to feed on squid, small tuna, dorado and various other off-shore species. They are also known to be opportunistic feeders and have been caught with snappers, groupers, different members of the jack family.

SIZE: The average size of black marlin is usually just a bit bigger than the blues and is in the range of 200-500 lbs. LIke the blue marlin, females are almost always larger than males. Although the largest marlin ever caught were blues, more granders (1,000 lbs or more) have been black marlin.

WHERE FOUND IN COSTA RICA: Black marlin are found all along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Unlike the blue marlin which is found in every ocean, black marlin are only found in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. They are also found in warm tropical waters, but can be found much closer to shore than blue marlin which makes them easier to find and fish for. It is common to find black marlin along shallow reefs or islands, which Costa Rica has plenty of.

BEST MONTHS: Black marlin can and have been caught year round in Costa Rica. They can usually be found in warmer water than the blues which means they usually arrive a little later than them. The best months along the Southern and Central Pacific is December-February with July and August offering a good second season. In the Northwest region of Guanacaste they typically found from April to September.