Newport, OR – Four striped marlin were caught off the Oregon coast over the weekend, marking an uncommon sighting of the powerful Pacific billfish in the region.
According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the marlin were landed between Friday, Aug. 29 and Sunday, Aug. 31, by recreational anglers taking advantage of warm currents and abundant baitfish. While striped marlin typically inhabit tropical and subtropical waters, they occasionally appear farther north under the right ocean conditions.
The striped marlin (Kajikia audax) is known for its speed, acrobatic leaps, and long, spear-like upper jaw. These fish can grow over 12 feet in length and weigh more than 450 pounds. Their shimmering blue stripes and tall dorsal fins make them a standout species among billfish.
Marlin feed on sardines, mackerel, anchovies, and squid, and are usually found in water temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Though rarely seen off Oregon, their presence isn’t entirely unheard of when oceanic patterns shift.
Under current regulations, recreational anglers may keep striped marlin caught in U.S. waters, but they cannot be sold commercially on the West Coast. The species is managed by NOAA Fisheries, the Pacific Fishery Management Council, and international conservation bodies to maintain sustainable populations.
Officials urge anglers to remain observant, as ocean conditions can unexpectedly bring tropical species within reach.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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