Big game (offshore)
Blue marlin
Marlim azul · Makaira nigricans
Cobalt-blue back, silver flanks, a tall pointed first dorsal and a rounded spear. Huge — Madeira is famous for "granders" (1000 lb+).
Best months
May–Oct
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Legal minimum size
200 cm
Portaria 484/2016/M (Anexo II)
Habitat
Blue water offshore, often over the deep banks and drop-offs close to the south/southwest coast.
Method
High-speed trolling of large lures/skirts and rigged baits; stand-up or chair big-game tackle (50–130 lb).
Bait & lures
Big skirted trolling lures, Konaheads, rigged bait (mackerel).
Regulation
Highly-migratory species — catch-and-release is recommended good practice.
Legal sizes per Portaria 484/2016/M (Anexo II). Always confirm with the Direção Regional de Pescas.