Yellowfin Tuna
Thunnus albacares
Also called: yellowfin, ahi
A powerful, deep-water tuna with long yellow fins, caught by trolling, chunking, and casting to schools in blue water.
- Type
- Offshore & Pelagic
- Typical size
- 20 to 80 lb; fish over 100 lb are large
- Range
- Warm waters of the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Pacific
- Coasts
- Southeast Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Pacific, Northeast Atlantic
- Where
- Open water
- Best seasons
- Summer and fall in many areas; offshore canyons and rigs hold fish
Note: Tuna rules include permits, size limits, and bag limits that differ by species and by area. Size limits, bag limits, and seasons for this species change often, so check current state and federal rules before you keep one.
How to identify it
- A dark blue back with a yellow stripe along silver sides.
- Long yellow second dorsal and anal fins.
- Small yellow finlets.
- A torpedo-shaped body.
Baits and lures
- Chunk baits and live baits
- Poppers and stickbaits
- Trolled lures and ballyhoo
Techniques
- Troll lures and baits along canyon edges and temperature breaks.
- Chunk baits in a slick behind the boat.
- Cast poppers and stickbaits to schools breaking at the surface.
- Use heavy gear and a good gaff team.
Field notes
Yellowfin hunt in schools and fight in deep circles. Bleeding and cooling fish quickly improves the meat.
Related guides
Saltwater size limits, bag limits, seasons, gear rules, and license requirements change often and differ by state and in federal waters. Some species are catch-and-release only or closed in certain areas. Check your state's current fishing regulations before you keep a fish; our state resources directory links to each state's official wildlife and fisheries agency.