Sportfishing - Tuna

Tuna are regulated as an Atlantic Highly Migratory Species by the National Marine Fisheries Service of the Federal Government. A federal permit is required for recreational fishing of these species. The season is open all year, although the fish are migratory. Five species of tuna are authorized for fishing, with varying regulation for each species. Tuna are schooling fish and often found in large numbers.

Albacore Tuna

Albacore Tuna has no size limit or bag limit for recreational angling. Albacore is prized for its white meat and good flavor. These are usually found far offshore in deeper waters. Albacore are identified by their longer pectoral fins and darker blue coloring, and are sometimes known as Longfin Tuna. They are, on average, somewhat smaller than other tuna. Weight for Albacore can run 15-25 pounds.

Bigeye Tuna

Bigeye Tuna have no regulated bag limit but are subject to a 27 inch size limit. Bigeye tuna are very similar in appearance to yellowfin and can be hard to distinguish. The eye may appear slightly larger than a yellowfin. Bigeye are often found deeper than yellowfin.

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin Tuna is the most regulated species of tuna. Still, it remains open all year. Recreational vessels may catch 1 fish per trip of 27-47 inches and 1 fish per trip of 47-73 inches. Vessels may also catch 1 fish per year over 73 inches. All bluefin tuna landings must be reported within 24 hours. Bluefin tuna can run to several hundred pounds.

Skipjack Tuna

Skipjack Tuna have no size or count limit. These are often found weighing 5-15 pounds. Skipjack range occaissionally far north but seem to prefer tropical waters. They are believed to feed near the surface and are attracted to surface structures.

Yellowfin Tuna