Florida’s MOST Overrated Fish… Wahoo & Mahi Mahi! Catch Clean Cook

While both Wahoo and Mahi Mahi are popular game fish in Florida, they may not be as revered as some other species. Here’s a breakdown of why:

Wahoo

While Wahoo (Ono) can be a thrilling catch, their meat is often described as oily and lacking in flavor. This makes them less desirable for table fare compared to other species.
Wahoo are known for their speed and agility, making them a challenge to catch. However, this same characteristic can lead to lost fish and wasted time for anglers.
In Florida, Wahoo are often caught incidentally while targeting other species, such as Sailfish or Tarpon. This can lead to a sense of disappointment or frustration among anglers who were hoping for a more prized catch.

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi (Dorado) are often sought after for their vibrant colors and impressive size. However, their flesh can be prone to drying out and becoming tough, making them less appealing for cooking.
Mahi Mahi are also known for their aggressive behavior, which can lead to broken lines and lost lures. This can be frustrating for anglers who are after a more peaceful fishing experience.
In Florida, Mahi Mahi are often caught in large numbers, which can lead to a sense of overfishing and decreased excitement among anglers.

Catch, Clean, and Cook

If you do manage to catch a Wahoo or Mahi Mahi, here are some tips for cleaning and cooking them:

For Wahoo, remove the skin and any bloodlines to reduce the oily flavor. Then, soak the fillets in a mixture of lemon juice and herbs to enhance the flavor.
For Mahi Mahi, remove any dark meat and bloodlines, and then marinate the fillets in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and citrus to add moisture and flavor.

In conclusion, while Wahoo and Mahi Mahi can be exciting catches, they may not be the most sought-after species in Florida due to their meat quality and fishing challenges. However, with proper cleaning and cooking techniques, they can still be enjoyed as a fresh and flavorful meal.

Rod and Reel:

Rod: Choose a rod with a suitable action and length for the type of fish you’re targeting. For example, a medium-heavy rod is good for bass fishing.
Reel: A spinning reel or baitcasting reel is commonly used for river fishing. Consider the size of the reel based on the line weight you’ll be using.

Line:

Line weight: Choose a line weight appropriate for the size of fish you’re targeting and the conditions of the river.
Line type: Consider using a braided line for increased sensitivity and abrasion resistance, or a monofilament line for better casting.

Hooks:

Hook size: Select hooks that are appropriate for the size of fish you’re targeting.
Hook style: Different hook styles, such as worm hooks, jig hooks, or crankbait hooks, can be used for various fishing techniques.

Lures and Baits:

Live bait: Minnows, worms, and crickets are popular live bait options for river fishing.
Artificial lures: Jigs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures are effective for catching a variety of fish.

Accessories:

Fishing pliers: Essential for removing hooks and cutting line.
Fishing net: For landing fish.
Fishing vest or tackle box: To store and organize your gear.
Hat and sunglasses: To protect yourself from the sun.
Sunscreen: To protect your skin from the sun.
Insect repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.

Additional Considerations:

Local regulations: Check local fishing regulations for any specific requirements or restrictions.
Weather conditions: Dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for changing conditions.
River conditions: Be aware of the river’s current, depth, and obstacles.

By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful fishing trip to the river.