Blackfin tuna are the smallest of the Atlantic tunas, but pound for pound they are some of the toughest fighters you will meet offshore.
- Season Fall through early spring
- Where Offshore, around current edges, bait schools and birds
- How Trolling, chunking and light-tackle live baits
- Good eating Yes: rich, dark meat, excellent as sashimi when fresh
- Good for Anyone who wants a hard, steady pull
What are blackfin tuna?
Blackfin tuna are a schooling fish with a dark back, silver sides and (as the name suggests) black finlets. Most fish landed are in the neighborhood of 10 to 25 pounds, and larger ones turn up too. They are active, fast swimmers that eat small baitfish and squid.
When and where
Our blackfin season runs roughly from fall into early spring, matching the season chart on our site. Look for them near current edges, along the Gulf Stream, under birds, and around schools of baitfish. See the Gulf Stream guide and season by month.
How we catch them
- Trolling: small lures and rigged baits pulled at moderate speed over a likely area.
- Chunking: when a school is located, cut bait is tossed overboard to draw them to the boat.
- Live bait: a live baitfish on light tackle is irresistible when tuna are feeding.
Tuna fights are long, deep pulls rather than flashy jumps. They run in circles beneath the boat, so patience matters. If you are hooked up, your crew will coach you.
Handling and eating blackfin
Tuna meat is delicate. It should be bled and iced right away. Fresh blackfin is superb as sashimi, seared rare, or in poke. The longer it sits warm, the faster the quality drops, so keep it cold. Details in cooking your catch.
Always ice tuna and other scombroid fish (tuna, mahi, wahoo, kingfish) promptly. Poorly kept fish can cause a type of food poisoning called scombroid.
Ready to put this to work? Request a trip with Good Mojo and tell us what you want to catch, or send us a question first.
Frequently asked questions
When can I catch blackfin tuna in Palm Beach?
The main season is fall through early spring, though fish can show up at other times.
Are blackfin tuna good to eat?
Yes, they are excellent, especially fresh as sashimi or lightly seared. Ice them right away.
How big do blackfin tuna get?
Most are about 10 to 25 pounds. Larger fish are possible but less common.
Is tuna fishing good for beginners?
Yes. The crew rigs and baits for you, and tuna action is steady when the fish are in.