What is the size limit for Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) in Florida?

The current FWC size limit for Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) in Florida is Atlantic: 20" fork length minimum. Gulf: no minimum size.. Always confirm at MyFWC.com before keeping a fish — regulations can change on short notice.

When is Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) season in Florida?

Statewide (Gulf and Atlantic): Year-round. Season windows vary by FWC management region.

Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) in Florida — Regs, Seasons & Tips

Q: What is the bag limit for Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) in Florida?

The current FWC daily bag limit for Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) in Florida is Atlantic private: 5 per person/day, 30 per vessel/day. Atlantic for-hire: 5 per person/day. Gulf: 10 per person/day, 60 per vessel/day. Captain and crew: zero..

Current FWC regulations

Season

Statewide (Gulf and Atlantic)

Year-round

Size limit

Atlantic: 20" fork length minimum. Gulf: no minimum size.

Bag limit

Atlantic private: 5 per person/day, 30 per vessel/day. Atlantic for-hire: 5 per person/day. Gulf: 10 per person/day, 60 per vessel/day. Captain and crew: zero.

Legal gear

Hook and line, spearfishing (no minimum size in Gulf).

Notes

Atlantic regulations tightened May 2022 — verify before your trip.

These limits are summarized from public FWC data and reviewed monthly. Florida regulations can change on short notice — always verify at MyFWC.com/Fishing before keeping a fish.

Best time to fish

Peak spring through fall — best when Gulf Stream pushes closer to Florida East coast (April-July). Gulf side: summer months around floating structure.

Best baits and tackle

Live pilchards, threadfins, ballyhoo (naked or skirted). Artificial lures: feathers, small jigs, squid chains. Trolling produces the fastest results.

Where to find them

Weedlines, floating debris, buoys, and color changes 3-30 miles offshore. Look for frigate birds working the water.

Sources

FWC — Dolphinfish

Cross-referenced with the FWC Saltwater Regulations and FWC Freshwater Regulations. Reviewed July 2026.

Species photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons contributors and public agencies (USFWS / NOAA / state fisheries). Licensed CC-BY, CC-BY-SA, or public domain.