Fishing charters most often look for floating debris and frigatebirds near the edge of the reef in about 120 feet (37 m) of water. Dolphin Fish (and many other fish) often swim near debris such as floating wood, palm trees and fronds, or sargasso weed lines and around fish buoys. Sargasso is floating seaweed that sometimes holds a complete ecosystem from microscopic creatures to seahorses and baitfish. Frigate birds dive for food accompanying the debris or sargasso. Experienced fishing guides can tell what species are likely around the debris by the birds' behavior.

30- to 50-pound gear is more than adequate for trolling for Dolphin Fish. Fly-casters may especially seek frigatebirds to find big Dolphin Fish and then use a bait-and-switch technique. Ballyhoo or a net full of live sardines tossed into the water can excite the Dolphin Fish into a feeding frenzy. Hookless teaser lures can have the same effect. After tossing the teasers or live chum, fishermen throw the fly to the feeding Dolphin Fish. Once on a line, Dolphin Fish are fast, flashy and acrobatic, with beautiful blue, yellow, green and even red dots of color.