Tuna are the majestic giants of the ocean, powerful fish capable of swimming at incredible speeds and traversing vast distances; they embody the essence of strength and freedom.
The Scombridae family, which includes Tunas, Bonitos, Mackerels, and others, comprises 51 species. Within this family, the tribe Thunnini, which contains the true Tunas, consists of 15 species. However, for most anglers, three main species excite them: the Bluefin, Yellowfin, and Dogtooth Tuna. Although the Dogtooth is named “Tuna,” it’s a Bonito. Nonetheless, most anglers classify it as a Tuna.
Below is more information about each of the three Tuna species, plus some of the best destinations in the world for anglers looking to tick the species off their bucket list.
Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin tuna are highly prized sportfish, known for their size and power. Weighing up to 1,500 pounds and growing over four meters long, these warm-blooded fish are native to the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Many anglers seek them for the challenging fight they provide, which can last from thirty minutes to over four hours.
As apex predators, bluefin tuna primarily hunt in the upper ocean layers, feeding on small fish like sardines and herring, as well as squid and crustaceans. A popular method for catching them is trolling teasers behind a boat to draw them in, followed by dropping a dead bait or lure.
Below we’ve listed some of the best Bluefin Tuna fishing destinations in the world…
BLUEFIN TUNA FISHING – VALENCIA, SPAIN
In recent years, Valencia has emerged as an exciting destination for Bluefin Tuna fishing, producing spectacular results that excite anglers. Our partners were pioneers in this burgeoning fishery, establishing the first sportfishing operation in the marina of Valencia, offering the chance to reel in the largest specimens found anywhere in Europe.
During the summer months of June and July, Valencia transforms into the heart of European big-game fishing, where anglers can chase huge Bluefins over 600 pounds. If you have dreamt of battling a grand Tuna and embarking on an unforgettable sportfishing adventure just a short flight from the UK, Valencia is the ultimate destination for you.
Season: June
Peak Season: June
Weight: 100lb to 700lb+
Average Weight: 150lb to 400lb
Visit the tour page:
Bluefin Tuna Fishing Valencia Spain
Bluefin Tuna FIshing – lA Gomera, Canary Islands
La Gomera is a small island located off Africa’s coast and part of Spain’s Canary Islands. Volcanic in origin, the island rises from the rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and its deep blue coastal waters, both inshore and offshore, are part of the migration routes for some of the largest Bluefin Tuna on Earth. As a result, La Gomera is one of sport fishing’s best-kept secrets, offering anglers the chance to catch some of the biggest specimens found anywhere in the world. It boasts a true year-round fishery and is considered one of the top big game fishing destinations in Europe.
With its fantastic weather, lush palm-filled valleys, and beautiful sandy beaches, along with being just a short flight away from the UK, it’s easy to see why La Gomera is such a popular destination for travelling anglers, non-fishing companions and families seeking a warm getaway.
Season: February to June
Peak Season: March to May
Weight: 100lb to 1000lb+
Average Weight: 500lb
Visit the tour page:
Big Game Fishing La Gomera
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Yellowfin Tuna
The Yellowfin Tuna is a pelagic species found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. It displays a striking metallic blue and silver colouration with bright yellow fins. Typically found in offshore waters up to 100 meters deep, they may venture closer to shore when conditions are right. Populations are present in mid-ocean islands of the Pacific, Caribbean, and Indian Oceans.
Yellowfin Tunas travel in schools and feed on various baitfish, crustaceans, and squid. They can grow over 400 pounds but are smaller than the Atlantic and Bluefin tunas. As warm-blooded fish built for speed, they can reach up to fifty miles per hour, making them a thrilling target for anglers. Popular methods for catching Yellowfin Tunas include traditional big game trolling with lures or bait.
Below we’ve listed some of the best Yellowfin Tuna fishing destinations in the world…
Yellowfin Tuna Fishing – Cape Town, South Africa
If fishing for first-class Yellowfin Tuna has always been on your bucket list, our dedicated Yellowfin Tuna fishing tour to Cape Town, South Africa, will meet all your expectations. In partnership with our friends at CapTuna, we offer some of the best Tuna fishing available globally regarding the number of fish and their impressive average size.
Located in the renowned Hout Bay, a coastal suburb of Cape Town, our fishing grounds are offshore, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans converge. This unique location provides nutrient-rich waters, attracting a large number of baitfish and, in turn, a host of hungry predators. The Yellowfin Tuna is the dominant species here and the primary target for anglers, with some weighing over 200lb.
All fishing takes place aboard our “Rapid Cat” vessels, which are ideal for navigating offshore waters and offer an excellent fishing platform. At 28 feet long, these boats provide exceptional stability and comfort for all anglers.
Season: All year
Peak Season: September to June
Weight: 50lb to 220lb
Average Weight: 120lb
Visit the tour page:
Tuna Fishing Cape Town South Africa
Yellowfin TunA fishing – Bluewater Fishing Panama
Bluewater Fishing Panama, located in Boca Chica near the vibrant city of David on Panama’s stunning south coast, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Chiriquí, known for legendary saltwater fishing and home to over 50 IGFA World Records. Iconic fishing spots like Hannibal Bank, Isla Montuosa, the Triangle, and Isla Ladrones are abundant with life, inviting anglers to chase monster Yellowfin Tuna.
Just 20 miles offshore, Hannibal Bank is the ultimate destination for these magnificent fish, which travel in schools and pursue fast-moving baitfish like flying fish and sardines. While they average around 80 pounds, larger catches are possible each season.
This year-round fishing haven features comfortable lodges and five specialized offshore sportfishing vessels, offering various techniques such as trolling, jigging, live bait fishing, and popper fishing, ensuring every moment is ripe for an unforgettable adventure.
Season: January to August
Peak Season: May
Weight: 50lb to 200lb
Average Weight: 80lb
Visit the tour page:
Bluewater Fishing Panama
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DOGTOOTH TUNA
The Dogtooth Tuna, or White Tuna, is a pelagic marine fish found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region and the Pacific Ocean’s oceanic islands. Typically associated with reef environments, they inhabit deep drop-offs and steep underwater walls at depths of 10 to 200 meters, swimming in small schools or alone.
As aggressive and opportunistic predators, Dogtooth Tunas feed on small baitfish and squid, using their razor-sharp teeth to tackle prey larger than themselves. They are one of the apex non-pelagic predators, alongside species like Groupers and Giant Trevally. Dogtooth Tunas can grow over two meters long and weigh over 200lb, with an IGFA record of over 236lb.
Interestingly, they are the largest members of the Bonito family, not true tunas. They feature striking blue-green and silver markings and possess exceptional speed and fighting qualities, making them a sought-after species for sport fishing. Popular methods for catching them include poppers, lures, and fast-fished vertical jigs.
Below we’ve listed some of the best Dogtooth Tuna fishing destinations in the world…
Dogtooth Tuna Fishing – Rodrigues Island
Exclusive to Sportquest Holidays, a journey to Rodrigues Island offers an unparalleled opportunity for anglers to fish for a diverse array of hard-fighting bluewater species. Among these is the formidable Dogtooth Tuna, known for its impressive size, with specimens often exceeding 200lb.
This trip is designed for adventure, allowing anglers to experience popper and jig fishing across various stunning environments often described as extreme and raw. Each fishing experience is unique, with the potential to encounter a wide range of species that thrive in these waters.
One of the highlights of the expedition is the chance to wet a line at the world-famous Hawkins Bank – a renowned fishing destination, celebrated for its exceptional opportunities and one which attracts anglers from around the globe.
Season: All year
Peak Season: December to February
Weight: 20lb to 220lb
Average Weight: 70lb
Visit the tour page:
Vertical Jig Fishing Rodrigues Island
DOgtooth Tuna Fishing – Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands is an archipelago in the northeastern Indian Ocean, comprising hundreds of volcanic islands in the Bay of Bengal. The waters surrounding the islands are rich and diverse, providing incredible opportunities for saltwater fishing. Various formidable predators inhabit these seas, particularly the Monster Dogtooth Tuna.
Fishing in the Andaman Islands is often described as “Total Hardcore Saltwater Fishing at Its Best,” but it can be highly addictive. Techniques such as popper fishing, bait fishing, and vertical jigging along the jagged reef edges and steep drop-offs are exhilarating. Thanks to the catch-and-release policy in place, the fish population is thriving, and many species targeted by anglers can exceed 40 kilograms in weight. These giant fish will undoubtedly challenge your tackle and fishing skills, as they often win their fair share of battles against anglers.
Season: October to April
Peak Season: February to April
Weight: 20lb to 100lb
Average Weight: 35lb
Visit the tour page:
Fishing Adventures Andaman Islands
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Contact us
At Sportquest Holidays, we’ve spent years helping anglers travel to the best tuna fishing destinations across the globe. Whether you’re after Giant Bluefin in the Mediterranean or Yellowfin in the tropics, our expert team can help craft the perfect fishing adventure to match your needs and schedule. Call us today on 01603 407596 or email info@sportquestholidays.com to start planning your tailor-made Tuna fishing holiday.
