top of page
4_1c7025d0-76b4-4838-872e-b5ddedd110b7.webp

Blackfin Tuna

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

  • Blackfin tuna can be found in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. They are commonly encountered in offshore areas, near reefs, and around underwater structures.

  • Florida: Blackfin tuna can be found in the offshore waters of Florida, including the Florida Keys, the Gulf Stream, and the Atlantic coast. Popular fishing spots include the Dry Tortugas, Key West, Islamorada, and Miami.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

  • Blackfin tuna are highly migratory fish that inhabit both deep and shallow waters. They are often associated with underwater structures, such as reefs, wrecks, and floating debris. They can also be found near areas with strong currents and upwellings that bring nutrient-rich water.

  • Look for blackfin tuna near temperature breaks, where warm and cold water currents meet. They are known to school near baitfish and other prey species. Pay attention to bird activity and surface disturbances, as they can indicate the presence of feeding blackfin tuna.

PATTERNS

SPRING

  • During the spring, blackfin tuna migrate northward in search of food and favorable water temperatures. They may be encountered in offshore waters and around reefs. Look for them near weed lines, floating debris, and areas with active baitfish. Trolling with small lures or live bait can be effective.

SUMMER

  • In the summer, blackfin tuna can be found in both offshore and nearshore waters. They tend to feed near the surface during early mornings and evenings. Look for them near schools of flying fish, squid, or other prey items. Casting lures or live bait and trolling with small lures can yield good results.

FALL

  • As fall arrives, blackfin tuna continue their migration, often moving closer to shore. They may be found in deeper waters or near reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs. Look for them feeding on schools of baitfish or congregating around structure. Jigging, trolling, and live bait fishing are effective techniques during this season.

WINTER

  • During the winter, blackfin tuna can still be found in Florida's offshore waters. They may move to deeper areas and prefer warmer currents. Look for them near underwater structures or areas with upwellings. Slow trolling with live bait or deep jigging can be productive during the colder months.

Bait

  • Ballywho, Mackerel, Squid, Menhaden

Techniques

Trolling

  • How: Trolling is an effective technique for blackfin tuna. Use high-speed trolling in the 8-10 knot range to cover more water and attract their attention. Troll with small to medium-sized lures, such as feathers, cedar plugs, or small skirted trolling lures. Pay attention to signs of bird activity or surface disturbances, which can indicate the presence of feeding blackfin tuna.

  • Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy trolling rods. Reels: Lever drag reels with a high line capacity. Line: 30-50lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Feathers, cedar plugs, skirted trolling lures.

Chunking

  • How: Chunking involves using chunks of baitfish to attract blackfin tuna. Find an area with active baitfish or locate birds diving into the water. Cut fresh baitfish, such as bonito or mackerel, into chunks and throw them overboard to create a scent trail. Drop your baited hooks into the same area, using a heavy sinker to get the bait down quickly.

  • Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 20-40lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Circle hooks or J-hooks in sizes 2/0-4/0.

Live Bait

  • How: Live bait fishing can be highly effective for blackfin tuna. Catch live baitfish, such as pilchards, herring, or small mackerel, using a cast net or small hook and baitfish rig. Keep the baitfish alive in a well-aerated baitwell or livewell. When you find a feeding frenzy or see tuna actively feeding near the surface, cast your live bait into the area and let it swim freely.

  • Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 20-40lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Circle hooks or J-hooks in sizes 2/0-4/0.

Jigging

  • How: Jigging is a popular technique for targeting blackfin tuna. Use vertical jigs, such as butterfly jigs or knife jigs, and drop them down to the desired depth. Jerk the rod upwards to create an erratic action, imitating a wounded baitfish. Blackfin tuna are known to strike these jigs aggressively during the fall.

  • Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: 30-50lb test braided line. Leaders: 30-50lb fluorocarbon leaders. Jigs: Butterfly jigs, knife jigs.

Fly Fishing

  • How: Blackfin tuna can be targeted with fly fishing gear. Look for feeding frenzies or diving birds, which indicate the presence of tuna. Use fast-sinking or intermediate sinking fly lines to get the fly down quickly. Flies that imitate small baitfish or shrimp patterns are effective. Strip the fly with quick, erratic movements to entice a strike.

  • Gear: Rods: 8-10wt fly rods. Reels: Large arbor fly reels with a smooth drag system. Line: Fast-sinking or intermediate sinking saltwater fly line. Leaders: 9-12ft 20-30lb fluoroc

bottom of page