Yellowfin Tuna

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Yellowfin tuna, highly sought after for its incredible speed and exceptional fighting ability, can be found in the offshore waters of the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking an exciting offshore fishing experience often target yellowfin tuna in the Pacific Ocean. Here are some notable locations for yellowfin tuna fishing in the region:
Oregon: Offshore waters beyond the Oregon coast provide opportunities to encounter yellowfin tuna. The Pacific Ocean offers ample fishing grounds for these pelagic species.
Washington: Similar to Oregon, offshore waters beyond the Washington coast are potential areas to target yellowfin tuna. The Pacific Ocean provides a vast expanse of open water where these fish roam.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Yellowfin tuna are highly migratory and tend to inhabit warm offshore waters. They prefer areas with a combination of favorable conditions, including temperature breaks, underwater structures such as seamounts, ridges, or floating objects, and areas with high productivity. Yellowfin tuna are often found in areas where baitfish and other prey are abundant.

PATTERNS

SUMMER

Summer is typically the peak season for yellowfin tuna in the Northwest region. During this time, warm water currents push closer to the coast, attracting baitfish and creating favorable conditions for yellowfin tuna. They may be found in offshore waters, often in association with floating debris, kelp paddies, or areas where birds are actively feeding. Trolling with artificial lures, such as skirted trolling lures or cedar plugs, or live bait fishing with small tuna or mackerel can be effective during this season.

FALL

In the fall months, yellowfin tuna may continue to be present in offshore waters, but their activity level can vary. They may move farther offshore or follow shifting currents and temperature patterns. Paying attention to sea surface temperature charts and locating areas with suitable conditions can improve your chances of finding yellowfin tuna. Trolling with deep-diving plugs or deploying live baitfish can be productive during this season.

Yellowfin tuna are opportunistic feeders and can be targeted using a variety of baits and lures. Popular bait options include live baitfish such as small tuna, mackerel, or squid. These can be deployed using techniques such as trolling or chunking. It's essential to match the size of the baitfish to the average size of the yellowfin tuna in the area.
Artificial lures are also effective in enticing yellowfin tuna. Skirted trolling lures, cedar plugs, and diving plugs that mimic the appearance and action of baitfish are commonly used. The choice of lure color and size can vary depending on the prevailing conditions and the preferences of the fish.

Trolling

How: Trolling is a popular technique for targeting yellowfin tuna. Use outriggers to spread multiple lines at different distances from your boat. Troll at speeds of 6-10 knots and vary your lure depths to cover different areas of the water column. Yellowfin tuna are often attracted to skirted trolling lures, such as cedar plugs, feather lures, and jet-head lures.
Gear: Rods: Heavy trolling rods with roller guides. Reels: High-capacity conventional reels with a strong drag system. Line: 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Skirted trolling lures in vibrant colors like blue, green, and purple.

Chunking

How: Chunking involves creating a scent trail by periodically throwing chunks of baitfish, such as sardines or mackerel, into the water. Anchor your boat near a productive area, such as a seamount or current line, and set up a chunking station. Use large circle hooks baited with chunks of baitfish and cast them into the chum slick.
Gear: Rods: Heavy spinning or conventional rods. Reels: Powerful spinning or conventional reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 40-60lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Large circle hooks appropriate for the bait size.

Live Bait

How: Yellowfin tuna can be targeted using live bait such as bonito, mackerel, or flying fish. Rig the live baitfish with a bridle rig or a strong hook through the nose or back. Slow-troll or drift the live bait around productive areas, paying attention to any signs of activity on the surface.
Gear: Rods: Heavy spinning or conventional rods. Reels: Powerful spinning or conventional reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 30-50lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: J-hooks or circle hooks appropriate for the size of the live baitfish.

Jigging

How: Jigging is an effective technique for targeting yellowfin tuna when they are feeding deeper in the water column. Use heavy metal jigs and drop them to the desired depth. Work the jig aggressively with upward jerks followed by a controlled descent. Yellowfin tuna are known to strike jigs during the fall.
Gear: Rods: Heavy jigging rods with a fast action. Reels: High-capacity conventional reels with a strong drag system. Line: 50-80lb test braided line. Leaders: Fluorocarbon leaders with a high-poundage rating. Jigs: Butterfly jigs, knife jigs, or speed jigs in sizes ranging from 4-8 ounces.