Casting Artificial Lures for Yellowfin Tuna
Hey all, Capt. Carlos here and today we'll be venturing into the open seas to chase one of the most prized game fish – the yellowfin tuna. We'll be focusing on using artificial lures like slow pitch jigs, stick-baits, and plugs to hook these hard-fighting and acrobatic adversaries. So, gear up and join me as we dive into the strategies, tactics, and equipment needed to conquer the world of yellowfin tuna fishing.
Understanding Yellowfin Tuna and their Habits
Yellowfin tuna are a highly migratory pelagic species found in warm and temperate waters across the globe. Known for their speed, strength, and endurance, these apex predators are a thrilling challenge for any angler.
Distribution and habitat:
- Yellowfin tuna are commonly found in subtropical and tropical waters, often near underwater structures like seamounts, ledges, and drop-offs. They can also be found around floating debris or temperature breaks.
- Behavior and diet: Yellowfin tuna are opportunistic feeders, preying on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They often form large schools and can be seen feeding aggressively on the surface, creating "boiling" water conditions.
- Seasonal movements: Yellowfin tuna migrate seasonally, following the warm waters and their prey. In the Atlantic, they can be found off the East Coast of the United States during the summer and fall months and in the Gulf of Mexico during the winter and spring months.
Gear Selection for Yellowfin Tuna Fishing
To successfully target & connect with yellowfin tuna using artificial lures, you'll need the right gear & mindset. Your setup should provide the power and capacity to handle these fast and powerful fish, while still offering sensitivity for accurate lure presentation.
There are two set ups that offshore anglers should not leave the dock without when planning to target yellowfin while running and gunning for them. The first is a stout spinning outfit rated for 50-60lb braid and the second a slow pitch jigging setup on the heavier side with a heavier jig rating in the 400-600 gram. Now, it's best to keep in mind that rating on the slow pitch rod is really needed to select a beefier rod blank as that is what battling yellowfin tuna quickly demands. Anything lighter, would allow the fish to have it's way with you and ring the dinner bell for any shark nearby.
Rod and Reel:
- Line and leader: High-quality braided line is recommended for its strength, abrasion resistance, and sensitivity. Daiwa's 40lb J-Braid slim diameter allows it to cut throw the water column quicker, reaching fish that are holding in deeper water yet also boasts an incredibly high tensile strength needed to put the screws to a hefty yellowfin. Pair this with a 50 to 80 lb fluorocarbon leader, such as Yozuri's HD Pink Fluoro for added stealth and durability.
- Terminal tackle: 2-3x strong split rings, bullet proof knot connections, and heavy wire gauge hooks are essential for targeting yellowfin tuna. Opt for hardware that can withstand the pressure and power of these powerful pelagics.
Artificial Lure Selection for Yellowfin Tuna
A range of artificial lures can be highly effective for targeting yellowfin tuna. Slow pitch jigs, stick-baits, and plugs are all excellent choices for enticing these fast-moving predators.
- Slow pitch jigs: These jigs are designed to imitate injured baitfish, fluttering and darting through the water column. They are highly effective for targeting yellowfin tuna at various depths. Choose sizes ranging from 80 to 250 grams such as the 3V jigs from Marea Fishing, depending on water depth and current. Deeper water will demand heavier jigs to get them down into the strike zone quickly before the fish move on.
- Stick-baits: Floating or sinking stick-baits are versatile lures that can be fished in various ways. Twitch them near the surface or allow them to sink to target tuna at different depths. Stick-baits such as Marea Fishing's MiraMira Mullet, Nomad Design's Riptide, & Shimano's Orca in the 6 to 10-inch range are ideal for yellowfin tuna fishing.
- Plugs: Diving and surface plugs such as poppers can both be effective for targeting yellowfin tuna. Diving plugs allow you to reach deeper-feeding fish that could be feeding below the surface while throwing a larger popper when fish are breaking the surface can be an excellent tactic.
If you're serious about taking on the challenge to target yellowfin tuna with a sporting tactic then throwing artificial lures may just be up your alley! Be prepared for heart stopping strikes and a brutal battle as these fish just don't give in. After all, that why saltwater offshore anglers spend the time and effort to connect with them as much as they do.
