Sportfishing - Billfish
Billfish are regulated as an Atlantic Highly Migratory Species by the National Marine Fisheries Service of the Federal Government. A federal permit is required for recreational fishing of these fish. These fish may be landed but the NMFS strongly encourages releasing all billfish alive. All non-tournament landings must be reported within 24 hours. Blue Marlin and White Marlin have a combined limit of 250 landings per year, after which the fishery is closed. So releasing all billfish is to the benefit of all. Unless closed by reported landings, the billfish season is open all year. These are however, migratory species.
Blue Marlin
The Blue Marlin is the larger and more photogenic of these most sought-after sportfishing species. Male Blue Marlin rarely exceed 300 pounds, while the females are larger. The world record for tackle is 1402 pounds. Federal regulations set a minimum size limit at 99 inches - just over 8 feet, although anglers are encouraged to release all billfish, and must report any landed blue marlin within 24 hours. Landed fish will count toward the annual 250 fish limit for blue and white marlin combined. Blue marlin are edible, although rarely eaten as most are released.
White Marlin
The White Marlin is smaller than the Blue Marlin, with a maximum weight of only about 200 pounds. The federal minimum size limit for white marlin is 66 inches. Similar to blue marlin, anglers are encouraged to release all white marlin. Any that are landed must be reported within 24 hours and will reduce the 250 fish annual limit. White marlin can be taken on light tackle and provide a strong fight.
Sailfish
Sailfish are easily identified by their high and longer dorsal fin. They can be slightly larger than white marlin, to about 250 pounds, although usually much smaller. Sailfish do not have a reporting requirement, like marlin, nor an annual limit. They do have a minimum size requirement of 63 inches. These are considered a light tackle sportfish which will jump out of the water while fighting, though they may tire quickly. It is strongly suggested that these fish are always released.