Yellowfin Tuna
Thunnus albacares · Scombridae
Also known as: Ahi, Allison tuna
A powerful pelagic speedster prized by offshore anglers for blistering runs and deep, dogged fights.
- Typical size
- 10–40 kg (20–90 lb)
- Max size
- Can exceed 180 kg (400 lb) in prime grounds.
- Water
- Saltwater
- Best season
- Warm-water months; follow bird activity, bait, and floating debris.
Identification
Torpedo-shaped, metallic blue above and yellow along the flanks, with long bright-yellow sickle-shaped second dorsal and anal fins in mature fish.
Habitat & Range
Warm offshore waters, often near temperature breaks and floating structure.
Tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, in the open pelagic zone.
Diet & Feeding
Fast-swimming predator taking baitfish, squid, and crustaceans.
Spawning & Reproduction
Batch spawner in warm water, releasing eggs into the open ocean year-round in the tropics; no parental care.
How to Catch
Hunt birds, dolphins, and weed lines. Yellowfin fight deep and hard — use a harness and apply steady, heavy pressure.
Best techniques
- Trolling
- Live-bait chunking
- Vertical jigging
- Kite fishing
Lures & baits
- Ballyhoo & skirted lures
- Live sardines/pilchards
- Vertical jigs
- Poppers
Best season: Warm-water months; follow bird activity, bait, and floating debris.