What's the Difference Between Marlin and Sailfish?

This is one of the more popular questions asked to fishing experts. The reason most people get confused about these two fish is that they are both members of the billfish family giving them their distinct pointy snouts. Both fish also have streamlined bodies which give them their amazing speed in the water. When catching a Marlin or Sailfish during a Miami Deep Sea Fishing excursion, it may not be apparent whether it's a Marlin or Sailfish as they both have characteristic leaps out of the water and are both lightning fast. Here are the differences between the two fish.

Dorsal Fin

The sailfish has a signature sailing dorsal fin. It opens when the sailfish feels threatened or needs to be particularly agile. The Marlin has a less pronounced dorsal fin - but it still used for similar reasons. The Marlin's dorsal fin is actually one connected fin whereas the Sailfish dorsal fin is a series of fins connected together a bit like feathers (they are called pleats). When Marlin Fishing Miami, a smaller dorsal fin is certainly an easy thing to spot.

Pectoral Fin

The pectoral fins of a Sailfish are significantly larger than that  of a Marlin. They are also used for show and agility when a Sailfish or Marlin are in the water.  When Miami Sailfishing, a larger pectoral fin is indicative of a sailfish.

Bill

The Sailfish also has a larger bill than a Marlin. Both bills are very sword-like but the Marlin's bill is more like a broadsword and the Sailfish is more like a rapier. Either way, catching a Marlin or Sailfish on a fishing trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience - we hope this helps you determine which you have on the line.