Tuna Trolling Techniques: How to Land the Speedy Ocean Predator

Tuna trolling is a thrilling pursuit that combines the excitement of the chase with the satisfaction of landing a powerful ocean predator. Learn the best Tuna Trolling Techniques to have a successful fishing adventure.

Tuna Trolling Techniques

Tuna fishing is a thrilling adventure that combines the thrill of the chase with the satisfaction of reeling in one of the ocean's most prized predators. They are one of the most popular game fish in the world, and for good reason. They're fast, strong, and delicious. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of tuna trolling and explore the techniques that will help you land these speedy ocean dwellers.

Trolling is a method of fishing where you pull bait behind your boat at a constant speed. This can be done with a variety of baits, but the most popular bait for tuna are lures. Lures come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, but the most important thing is to choose lures that will imitate the baitfish that tuna eat.

Plotting Your Course

Before embarking on your tuna trolling trip, it's essential to choose the right location. Tuna are highly migratory, so researching their patterns and the best time to find them in your chosen area is crucial. Areas with underwater structures, such as drop-offs, canyons, and seamounts, tend to attract tuna, making them prime spots for trolling. Here are some tips for beginning your tuna outing:

• Research Tuna Behavior and Migration Patterns
• Determine the Best Time and Location
• Seek Out Underwater Structures
• Monitor Weather Conditions
• Prepare Safety Equipment and Supplies

Gear Up for Success

To conquer the challenges posed by powerful tuna, it's essential to equip yourself with the right gear. From rods and reels to fishing line and terminal tackle, every piece plays a crucial role in your ability to successfully land these speedy ocean predators. Here's a closer look at the gear you'll need to ensure a fruitful tuna trolling adventure.

Rod and Reel Selection:
Tuna have incredible strength and can put significant pressure on your equipment, so choose a  rod that can handle the fight. Pair your rod with a high-quality reel designed for offshore trolling, preferably with a high line capacity to accommodate the long runs tuna are known for.

Fishing Line Strength and Type:
Braided  fishing lines, made of synthetic fibers like Spectra or Dyneema, offer high strength-to-diameter ratios and minimal stretch. Opt for a test strength ranging from 50 to 80 pounds, depending on the size of tuna you're targeting and the prevailing fishing conditions. To protect your line from a tuna's teeth and abrasive surfaces, and for a stealthy presentation, use a sturdy fluorocarbon leader of 80 to 130 pounds in strength for trolling applications.

Terminal Tackle:
Choose high-quality, corrosion-resistant  terminal tackle designed for saltwater fishing. Circle hooks are popular for tuna when live baiting or chunking as they tend to hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, increasing the chances of a successful catch and release. Connect your main line to a swivel, which reduces line twist caused by the lure's action.

Trolling Lures:
Skirted trolling  lures are a popular choice among anglers. These lures mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish, attracting hungry tuna. Opt for lures in dark colors during the low light hours or overcast conditions like purple, black, and blue, and gor for brighter colors when the sun is high. Consider lures with weighted heads to create a realistic swimming action that mimics the movements of prey.

Live Bait Options:
Mackerel, squid, and bunker are commonly used live baits. Rig your live bait with appropriate hooks, ensuring they swim naturally in the water. Utilize a livewell to keep your baitfish healthy and lively.

Additional Gear and Accessories:
Carry a range of additional gear and  accessories to enhance your fishing experience. These include pliers for removing hooks, a gaff for landing larger tuna, and a cooler or fish bag filled with ice to preserve the freshness of your catch. A high-quality fish finder and GPS unit can also be invaluable for locating schools of tuna or identifying productive fishing spots.

Lures and Baits That Tempt Tuna

When it comes to enticing tuna to strike, choosing the right  lures and bait is essential. Skirted trolling lures in vibrant colors, such as blue and green, mimic the baitfish that tuna feed on. Choose lures with a weighted head to create an enticing swimming action, mimicking the natural movement of prey. If you prefer live bait, consider using mackerel, squid, bunker, or any live bait that is prevalent in the area you are fishing. Here are some popular lure and bait options that have proven effective in tempting tuna to bite:

• Skirted Trolling Lures
• Spreader Bars
• Feathers
• Cedar Plugs
• Jigs
• Live and Chunk Bait

Yellowfin Tuna
Image provided by user: southernbellefishingtx

Perfecting Your Trolling Technique

Trolling is a widely used method for targeting tuna, and mastering the art of trolling can greatly increase your chances of success. The key to a successful trolling technique lies in presenting your lures or baits in a manner that mimics the natural movement of prey and entices tuna to strike. Here are some tips to help you perfect your tuna trolling technique:

Spread and Stagger Your Lines:
Use a "spread and stagger" method to deploy multiple lines at varying distances and depths behind your boat. This creates an enticing spread of lures or baits, imitating a school of fish and increasing your chances of attracting tuna. Vary the length of your lines and the position of your lures to cover different depths and increase your chances of intercepting tuna at various water levels.

Optimize Trolling Speed:
Start by trolling at a speed between 4 to 8 knots, and adjust as necessary based on the conditions and the tuna's behavior. Some days, tuna may be more active and respond well to faster speeds, while on other days, a slower trolling speed may be more effective. Pay attention to any signs of fish activity, such as birds diving or surface splashes, as they can indicate the optimal trolling speed.

Incorporate Changes in Speed and Direction:
Varying your trolling speed and direction can create an erratic and enticing presentation. Change speeds periodically, alternating between slower and faster speeds to imitate the movement of a school of baitfish. Additionally, make subtle turns or zigzag patterns to simulate the natural evasive actions of prey and trigger a tuna's predatory instincts.

Use Birds as Indicators:
Keep a keen eye on the sky and the water's surface for bird activity. Birds, such as seagulls or terns, often gather around areas where tuna are actively feeding on baitfish. If you spot a group of birds diving or circling above the water, it's a good sign that tuna might be present. Head towards these areas and position your trolling spread accordingly to increase your chances of hooking into tuna.

Pay Attention to Your Fishfinder:
Use a fishfinder to look for indications of baitfish, such as dense aggregations or distinct sonar marks, as these can signify potential tuna hotspots. Keep a close eye on the fishfinder screen, monitoring changes in depth and the presence of fish in the water column. Adjust your trolling spread based on the information provided by your fishfinder to target the desired depth range.

Bluefin Tuna
Image provided by user: skyguyw_fishingdad

Be Patient, But Be Prepared

Tuna trolling requires patience and persistence. Once you've set up your spread and started trolling, it's important to stay vigilant. Keep an eye out for bird activity, as seabirds often gather around areas where tuna are feeding. Additionally, use your fishfinder to locate baitfish schools or tuna schools beneath the surface. Remember, preparation is key, so have your landing net, gaff, and cooler ready for action.

The Battle Begins

Suddenly, a reel screams as a tuna strikes your bait. The fight is on! Tuna are known for their incredible speed and strength, so be prepared for an intense battle. Keep your drag adjusted to prevent the line from breaking, while also allowing the tuna to tire itself out. Use smooth, steady movements to reel in the line and maintain control over the fish. Stay focused, and don't rush the process.

Celebrate Your Catch

After an exhilarating struggle, you've successfully landed your prized tuna. Congratulations! Take a moment to admire its vibrant colors and powerful physique. Tuna make for delicious meals, and their meat is highly sought after. Ensure you handle and store the fish properly to maintain its freshness until you reach shore.

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