Techniques
While trolling is the norm for striped marlin, casting situations do arise. When selecting tackle, line capacity must be considered. Use the best and largest spinning reels available.
One method, the same as used on sailfish, is the "bait and switch." Here, the use of hookless baits, or "teasers," draws the striped marlin to the boat. Once the fish is brought within casting range, the teaser bait is pulled from the fish. At the same instant, a rigged bait is dropped in to replace it. From there, the same rules used in trolling - free-spooling and an ample dropback - are observed.
There are no great trolling secrets for taking striped marlin. When the fish are plentiful, it's the best method - especially with natural baits, either naked or trimmed with a small brightly colored plastic skirt. Good skirt colors are purple-white, bright-blue or green, and pink or red.
When slow-trolling naturals, find an effective speed under 6 knots. With artificials, you can increase rpms to achieve speeds of 8 or even 9 knots. As a rule, no more than four baits are towed, two long on the outriggers and two short (one just behind a teaser) on flat-lines.
