| Market Names |
US English - Mahi Mahi, Mahi, Dolphin Fish |
| Where Caught |
Mahi Mahi is commercially caught worldwide in tropical and sub-tropical waters. |
| How Caught |
Commercial wild capture fisheries primarily use longlines and hook-and-line gear to catch Mahi Mahi. There is some concern about bycatch from longlining as other marine mammals get caught or entangled. Fisheries using hook-and-line gear (such as troll, pole-and-line, or handline), catch little to no bycatch and are more sustainable. |
Mahi Mahi
Although not related to dolphins, Mahi Mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) was originally marketed under the name "Dolphin Fish". The name caused widespread consumer concern and confusion, so the "Dolphin Fish" was renamed Mahi Mahi and consumer acceptance and commercial sales began to increase. Mahi Mahi is one of the fastest swimming fish in the ocean, traveling most often on its own. They are also known to grow very quickly (averaging five pounds per month) but their lifespan is typically only three to four years. Some say Mahi Mahi is one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean because of its iridescent colors.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood WATCH® states "Mahi Mahi is a "Best Choice" or "Good Alternative" or "Avoid" dependent on country of product/origin and fish method. Please visit their website for detailed information about the wild capture of Mahi Mahi.
| Sources | |
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Species NameCoryphaena hippurus |
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SourceMahi Mahi is most often associated with Hawaii, but is actually found worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. |
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SeasonalitySupply of Mahi Mahi is available year round in fresh and frozen forms. Heaviest landings occur in spring and summer. |
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Fishing MethodNearly all Mahi Mahi comes from commercial wild marine fisheries caught by trolling, and to a lesser extent by pole and line, and long line fishing. Mahi Mahi is also a highly prized recreational fishery. |
| Features | |
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FlavorMahi Mahi offers a firm yet tender large moist flake. The slightly sweet full flavor is pleasing to nearly all palettes. |
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Dietary InformationMahi Mahi is an excellent source of Selenium, Niacin, and Vitamin B6. |
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AppearanceThe flesh is smooth and firm with a creamy white to pink color tone. Fresh Mahi Mahi has a small yet defined blood line running the entire length of the fillet which should have a red to maroon color. |
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FormMahi Mahi is sold fresh and frozen in a variety of product forms. Headed and Gutted, Skin On or off Fillets, and portion controlled. |
| Uses | |
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PreparationMahi Mahi can be used in almost any type of recipe. Grilling and broiling are popular options, but it is also delicious when steamed, sautéed and baked. Mahi Mahi is delicious in raw form and is often used for sashimi. |
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SubstitutionKing Mackerel, Ono, Pompano, and Striped Bass are all common substitutions for Mahi Mahi. |
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HandlingFresh Mahi Mahi should be refrigerated at 30-34 degrees F. Whole fish should be surrounded with fresh ice in a perforated pan which allows any water to drain away from the product for maximum shelf life. Never directly ice a Mahi Mahi fillet. Filleted product should be stored in a sealed plastic container and surrounded with ice. |
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ServingMahi Mahi can be prepared a number of ways, but the key is not to overcook it. Whichever cooking method is used, the fish will be cooked when its flesh becomes opaque and the inside is still moist. The strong flavor of Mahi Mahi does not require many additional spices or seasonings; a light coat of lemon or garlic butter is recommended. |
| Market | |
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Sizes and CutsFillet sizes will vary, but Mahi Mahi is often available in three to four pound fillets.Whole fish can range anywhere from 10 to 40 pounds. |
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Pricing ScaleMahi Mahi prices can fluctuate greatly during the year. However, even during heavy landing periods the demand of Mahi Mahi often exceeds its supply. |
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Shelf LifeFresh whole Mahi Mahi which has been handled and stored properly should retain optimum quality for 4-5 days. Once the fish is filleted product should be used within 2-3 days. Frozen can be commercially stored for up to one year. |