The Bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus is the largest member of the tuna family to visit our coasts.
Bluefin Tuna are dark blue-black on the back, and white on the lower sides and belly. The three areas that help distinguish this species from similiar tuna such as the yellow fin are: The second dorsal fin is reddish brown. The number of gill rakers on the first arch are between 34 & 43. They have a very short pectoral fin that does not extend to the start of the second set of dorsal fins.
These fish are highly migratory and can grow to lengths of 10 or 11 feet exceed 1,000 pounds. They are a highly prized food source in Japan and other Asian countries but less common in North American restaurants and homes.
Like other tunas, Bluefin feed on animals that are found on the ocean surface. Herrings, mackerels, hakes and squids are prey of this varacious carnivore.
Angler often use a spread of skirts on heavy lead heads such as the Blue Water Candy Lure Jag series baited with a ballyhoo and trolled on 80 or 130 class gear.
