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Dorado

Species Identification

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Dorado
2 photos

Dorado

Coryphaena hippurus

Also known as: Mahi-Mahi; Dolphinfish; Dorado

Offshore Pelagic Native (migratory) Stable; rare in PNW

Size & Weight

Average Length 49.2"
Max Length 82.0"
Average Weight 20.0 lbs
Max Weight 87.0 lbs
Lifespan 5 years

Habitat

Depth Range 0 - 280 ft
Water Temp 70-82°F

Open ocean; warm water; around floating debris; kelp paddies

Behavior

Spawning Season Spawn multiple times/year in tropics

Migration: Highly migratory; follow warm currents; debris-associated

Diet: Fish; squid; crustaceans; flying fish

Fishing Tips

PNW Season Very rare PNW; extreme warm water events
View season chart →

Techniques: Trolling; casting to debris; live bait

Best Bait: Trolling lures; ballyhoo; live bait

Eating Quality

Edibility Excellent

Mild; firm; excellent; highly prized

State Records

Washington
21.0
lbs
California
66.0
lbs

Fun Facts

Fastest-growing fish; brilliant colors fade at death; primarily tropical; extremely rare in PNW

How to Identify

Gold and green coloration; very fast growth; warm water visitor (rare in PNW); excellent fighter

Official Resources

Sources: NOAA
Change History (Last updated Feb 04, 2026 at 06:07 AM)
Date Change Old Value New Value
Feb 04, 2026 06:07 AM Added image species-89-011c9a6135087956.jpg
Feb 04, 2026 06:06 AM Added image species-89-fc34fa6433a9697b.jpg
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM Updated Avg Length 49.2

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