Ragman: the best bait is Ballyhoo, but Flying fish are a good substitute. I know the feeling that rag girl experienced. I have had them slam into me as well, Never had them tangle in my hair tho. I guess that's because I don't have that much hair. but I have been hit by them, Very disconcerting especially at night.
I have never eaten them, But I'll take your word for it. Any fast moving lure ( you use blue, I am partial to orange, or orange /red) will attract Mahi Mahi. and YES!!! floating debris, weeds etc will draw them to it. The reason is that Bait fish concentrate under the weeds/debris for shade. The Mahi Mahi know this and can always be found in a weed-line.
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