How Much Does a Mahi Mahi Cost?

Last Updated on February 13, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Mahi Mahi is one of the most popular types of seafood thanks to its great taste, versatility in cooking, and impressive nutritional profile. But how much does this tasty fish really cost? The price of Mahi Mahi can vary quite a bit based on several key factors. Read on to learn about what impacts the cost of Mahi Mahi and get some tips for finding the best deals.

How Much Does a Mahi Mahi Cost?

Across different sellers, fresh Mahi Mahi fillets cost $15 to $25 per pound on average. Whole fish range from $5 to $8 per pound. Frozen fillets run $10 to $15 per pound. Exact pricing depends on factors like:

• Size of the fish
• Time of year
• Location and type of seller
• Whether it’s whole fish or fillets
• Fresh vs. frozen
• Catch method

Mahi Mahi costs more at white tablecloth restaurants, less at casual eateries. Retail markets and grocery stores fall somewhere in between.

Fish Markets and Grocery Stores

At the fish counter, fresh Mahi Mahi fillets can range from $18 to $26 per pound. Whole dressed fish are $6 to $10 per pound. In the freezer section, frozen fillets are $12 to $18 per pound.

At well-stocked grocery stores, fresh fillets run $20 to $28 per pound. Frozen fillets cost a bit less – $14 to $22 per pound.

Restaurants

Ordering Mahi Mahi at a restaurant usually costs $25 to $40 for a single serving entree. Appetizer portions like tacos or sliders cost $12 to $18. Upscale seafood eateries charge $30 to $50 for a Mahi Mahi plate.

Wholesale

For retail buyers, wholesale pricing for whole Mahi Mahi averages $4 to $7 per pound. Fillets purchased in bulk often cost $13 to $19 per pound.

Here are the prices reported by different websites for Mahi Mahi, prices that reflect the range of costs associated with purchasing Mahi Mahi from different sources and the various factors that can influence the price:

Out Of The Blue Seafood: Mahi Mahi – $14.95 per pound.

Freshseas: Mahi Mahi – $56.85 for 2.25 lbs ($25.27 per pound).

Wild Seafood Market: Mahi Mahi – $8 per pound of whole fish. The average pound of whole fish will yield 35% once filleted.

Amazon: 2 lbs Fresh Mahi – $49.99 ($25.00 per pound).

What Factors Influence the Price?

Several factors impact the retail and wholesale pricing for Mahi Mahi:

Fresh vs. Frozen

Fresh Mahi Mahi commands a higher price than frozen fish. Fresh Mahi Mahi has never been frozen and is immediately shipped from the fishing vessel. It has superior texture and the fullest, brightest flavors. Frozen Mahi Mahi costs less but still offers good quality when properly handled.

Sustainability

Sustainable fishing practices sometimes increase costs but help conserve Mahi Mahi populations. Mahi Mahi caught by responsible fisheries may have a premium price.

Availability and Seasonality

Like many types of seafood, Mahi Mahi availability fluctuates. Peak season for Mahi Mahi runs from summer through early winter when waters are warmest. Prices usually dip during high season when supply is steady. Out of season, costs can be higher.

Overview of Mahi Mahi

Also known as dolphinfish or dorado, Mahi Mahi is a large, fast-growing fish found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. Its flesh ranges from white to pink in color and has a mildly sweet, but still savory flavor. Mahi Mahi is low in saturated fat and high in important nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and niacin.

This combination of great taste and stellar nutrition has made Mahi Mahi a go-to choice for many chefs and home cooks alike. Its firm, moist texture holds up well to a variety of cooking methods like grilling, pan-searing, and baking. Mahi Mahi can be the star of flavorful tacos, sandwiches, ceviche, and more.

Buying Tips for Mahi Mahi

Follow these tips when shopping for Mahi Mahi:

• Check labels for sustainability info – Look for indications it is wild-caught, not farmed.
• Inspect freshness – Fresh fillets should be glossy, translucent, and odor-free.
• Ask questions at the seafood counter – Reputable sellers can answer questions about sourcing.
• Consider frozen – Frozen fish locked in peak freshness can be a smart buy.
• Buy in season – Late spring through fall offers better availability and prices.

Cooking and Serving Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi’s versatility makes it perfect for an array of dishes:

Grilling – Get nice char marks on Mahi Mahi steaks or fillets brushed with olive oil and cooked over direct high heat.

Baking – Coat Mahi Mahi fillets with breadcrumbs or panco and bake until flaky inside and crispy outside.

Sautéing – Cook Mahi Mahi stovetop in a hot skillet for tacos, fish sandwiches, and other quick meals.

Broiling – Broil Mahi Mahi fillets just 6 inches from high heat for easy weeknight dinners.

You might also like our articles about the cost of crab legs, escargot, or fried chicken.

Mahi Mahi pairs well with tropical flavors like mango, pineapple, and coconut. Citrus and herbs like dill also complement it. Try serving with rice, beans, or fresh veggies.

Sustainable Fishing and Mahi Mahi

Responsible fishing helps protect Mahi Mahi populations:

• Follow catch limits and regulations – Preventing overfishing allows stocks to rebound.
• Avoid bycatch – Reducing accidental catches of juveniles and other species is key.
• Minimize habitat damage – Responsible practices protect coral reefs and other ecosystems.

Consumers should prioritize purchasing sustainably caught seafood. Look for certification from programs like Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).

Final Words

In most markets, fresh Mahi Mahi fillets cost around $18 to $26 per pound. Frozen fillets run $12 to $18 per pound. Whole fish averages $6 to $10 per pound. Exact pricing depends on factors like fresh vs. frozen, seasonality, and seller. Restaurant servings cost $25 to $50.

When buying Mahi Mahi, consider sustainability, inspect freshness, and check for deals in season. This flavorful, versatile fish makes a great addition to tacos, grilled entrees, seafood bowls, and more. Support responsible fishing practices to protect Mahi Mahi populations for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is mahi mahi good for?

Fresh Mahi Mahi has a refrigerator shelf life of just 1-2 days. For maximum freshness and flavor, try to cook it the same day you purchase it. Frozen Mahi Mahi that is properly thawed and kept chilled can safely be eaten within 3-4 days.

Cooked Mahi Mahi will last 3-4 days in the fridge as well.

Why is mahi mahi sustainable?

Mahi mahi is considered a sustainable fish choice because it is fast-growing and reproduces rapidly, making it resilient against fishing pressure. Mahi mahi fisheries are also well-managed in many areas with catch limits and regulations to prevent overfishing.

Choosing mahi mahi supports abundant fish populations.

What is the yield of mahi mahi?

The yield of mahi mahi refers to the amount of edible meat obtained from the fish. For a whole mahi mahi, the typical yield is 30-40%, meaning 30-40% of the total weight is usable fillets and meat.

A 10-pound whole fish would yield around 3-4 pounds of fillets. The remaining weight is from bones, skin, and other waste. Filleting a fish yourself results in a higher yield than buying ready fillets.