It's Tuna Time For Long Islanders
Posted by John Mantione on
Bluefin and yellowfin tuna fishing off Long Island has become an exciting fishery, attracting anglers from near and far. These prized fish offer a thrilling challenge for those looking to test their skills on the open water. If you're interested in trying your hand at tuna fishing, here are some ways to catch tuna, the best baits to use, and the top locations to target these elusive fish.
What are the Best Ways to Catch Tuna?
When it comes to catching tuna, there are several effective methods to consider. Trolling with lures or natural baits is a popular technique, as it allows you to cover a large area of water and entice hungry tuna to strike. Jigging is another successful method, especially when targeting yellowfin tuna in deeper waters. Additionally, chunking, live bait fishing, and kite fishing can all be effective strategies for landing these powerful fish.
What Baits Should You Use?
The key to successful tuna fishing is using the right bait to attract these fast-swimming predators. For bluefin tuna, popular baits include squid, mackerel, and butterfish. Yellowfin tuna are often enticed by live bait such as sardines, anchovies, or small bonito. When choosing your bait, consider the size and species of tuna you are targeting, as well as the fishing conditions and location.
Where are the Best Locations to Fish for Tuna?
Long Island offers a variety of prime locations for tuna fishing, with the waters off Montauk, Block Island, and Fire Island being particularly productive. Locationa like the Coimbra wreck or tge Texas Tower are traditional tuna grounds. These areas are known for their abundance of baitfish and strong currents, making them ideal feeding grounds for tuna. When planning your fishing trip, be sure to research local regulations, weather conditions, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of a successful outing.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice looking to try your hand at tuna fishing, the waters off Long Island provide an exciting opportunity to target bluefin and yellowfin tuna. By utilizing the right techniques, baits, and locations, you can increase your chances of hooking into one of these prized fish and experiencing the thrill of a successful tuna fishing adventure.
Permit Descriptions: All owners/operators of vessels in the U.S. Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean must obtain a federal permit to recreationally or commercially fish for regulated Atlantic HMS (sharks, swordfish, tunas (bluefin, bigeye, albacore, yellowfin, and skipjack), and billfishes (recreational only; white and blue marlins, sailfish, and roundscale spearfish)