Bluefin Tuna

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Bluefin tuna can be found in various bodies of water around the world, including the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Mediterranean Sea. They are highly migratory fish that travel long distances and are known for their epic migrations.
Florida: Bluefin tuna can be found in the offshore waters of Florida, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Popular fishing spots include the Florida Keys, Key West, and Miami.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Bluefin tuna are pelagic fish that inhabit both deep offshore waters and coastal areas. They are often found near underwater structures, such as seamounts, ridges, and canyons, as well as areas with high concentrations of baitfish. They are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures.
Look for bluefin tuna near areas where warm and cold water currents meet, as these can create productive feeding zones. They are known to associate with floating debris, weed lines, and areas with upwellings. Pay attention to bird activity and surface disturbances, as they can indicate the presence of feeding bluefin tuna.

PATTERNS

SPRING

Spring is a prime season for bluefin tuna fishing in Florida. As water temperatures begin to rise, bluefin tuna migrate closer to the coast in search of food. Look for them near underwater structures, ridges, and canyons. Trolling with large artificial lures, skirted trolling lures, or live bait can be effective.

SUMMER

During the summer months, bluefin tuna may be found in both offshore and nearshore waters of Florida. They can be encountered while targeting other pelagic species such as mahi-mahi or king mackerel. Look for them near areas with abundant baitfish and focus on fishing near structure-rich areas. Trolling with lures, live bait, or vertical jigging can be productive.

FALL

Fall is another productive season for bluefin tuna fishing in Florida. As water temperatures begin to cool, bluefin tuna may migrate back offshore, following the movement of baitfish. Look for them near canyons, seamounts, or areas with upwellings. Slow trolling with large baits, deep-diving plugs, or using live bait can increase your chances of hooking a bluefin tuna.

WINTER

During the winter months, bluefin tuna may be found in deeper offshore waters. They are known to follow schools of baitfish, particularly species like herring and mackerel. Focus on fishing near areas with stable water temperatures and potential food sources. Trolling with large lures, using live bait, or deep-water jigging can be effective in enticing strikes.

Bluefin tuna are powerful predators that primarily feed on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans. When targeting bluefin tuna, it is common to use a variety of bait and lure options. Artificial lures, such as deep-diving plugs, skirted trolling lures, or vertical jigs, can be effective. Live bait, such as mackerel, herring, or squid, is also commonly used. Experiment with different bait presentations and techniques to find what works best for attracting bluefin tuna.

Trolling

How: Trolling is a popular method for bluefin tuna fishing. Use large, deep-diving plugs, skirted trolling lures, or spreader bars. Troll at speeds ranging from 6 to 10 knots, depending on the conditions and the behavior of the tuna. Focus on offshore areas with temperature breaks, current lines, or schools of baitfish.
Gear: Rods: Heavy trolling rods designed for big game fishing. Reels: Powerful lever drag reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 100-200lb test. Lures: Large deep-diving plugs, skirted trolling lures, spreader bars

Live Bait

How: Live bait fishing can be highly effective for bluefin tuna. Catch or purchase live baitfish such as mackerel, herring, or sardines. Keep them in a well-aerated baitwell or livewell. Rig the live bait with a heavy-duty circle hook and attach it to a bridle rig or a balloon rig. Position the live bait in the water column using downriggers or outriggers to mimic natural movement.
Gear: Rods: Heavy stand-up rods or bent-butt rods designed for big game fishing. Reels: Powerful lever drag reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 100-200lb test. Hooks: Large circle hooks suitable for live bait fishing.

Chunking

How: Chunking involves using chunks of baitfish to attract bluefin tuna. Locate offshore areas with a high concentration of baitfish, such as areas near seamounts or underwater structures. Cut fresh baitfish, such as mackerel or bonito, into chunks and create a scent trail by consistently throwing them overboard. Drop your baited hooks, rigged with chunk baits, into the area to entice bluefin tuna to feed.
Gear: Rods: Heavy stand-up rods or bent-butt rods designed for big game fishing. Reels: Powerful lever drag reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-130lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 100-200lb test. Hooks: Large circle hooks suitable for chunk bait fishing.

Jigging

How: Jigging is a popular technique for targeting bluefin tuna, especially when they are feeding near the surface or in mid-water. Use heavy vertical jigs, butterfly jigs, or knife jigs. Drop the jig down to the desired depth and retrieve it with quick, jerking motions to imitate a wounded baitfish. Bluefin tuna are known to strike jigs aggressively.
Gear: Rods: Heavy spinning or conventional rods with a fast action. Reels: Powerful spinning or conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: 80-100lb test braided line. Leaders: Sturdy leaders made of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon, ranging from 100-150lb test. Jigs: Heavy vertical jigs, butterfly jigs, knife jigs.

Fly Fishing

How: Targeting bluefin tuna on fly tackle is a thrilling and challenging endeavor. Look for feeding frenzies or diving birds, which indicate thepresence of bluefin tuna. Use heavy-duty fly rods with large-arbor fly reels capable of holding a significant amount of backing. Choose fast-sinking or intermediate sinking fly lines to get your fly down to the desired depth.Flies that imitate baitfish such as anchovies, sardines, or squid are effective for bluefin tuna. Opt for large, durable flies tied on strong hooks. Strip the fly with long, fast retrieves to mimic the movement of fleeing baitfish. Be prepared for powerful runs and intense battles when a bluefin tuna takes your fly.
Gear: Rods: 10-12wt fly rods designed for saltwater big game fishing. Reels: Large-arbor fly reels with a strong drag system and high line capacity. Line: Fast-sinking or intermediate sinking saltwater fly lines. Leaders: Strong leaders ranging from 16-30lb test with shock tippets. Flies: Large baitfish patterns, such as deceivers, poppers, or streamers. It's important to note that bluefin tuna are