Yellowfin Tuna
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Yellowfin Tuna make up the bulk of San Diego Sportfish. The counts on this Tuna are much higher than Bluefin, Yellowtail, or Dorado. This migrational fish is present in our waters from about July through October, but they have been known to make surprise appearances.
Weighing in at an average of 25 to 45 lbs, with some specimens getting much larger, they can put up a fight you will not soon forget. Amazing acceleration and long runs on your drag are commonplace when fighting this Southern California favorite.
Yellowfin, also known as Ahi Tuna, are the most prolific pelagic sportfish in San Diego and Mexican waters, and will fill the bag of many angler over the hot summer months of Southern California. This species often feeds very close to the surface and so is easily found and able to be targeted by topwater techniques. Like other Tuna fish, the Yellowfin are also warm-blooded, which allows for agility and speed, and are one of the strongest fighters in the line up. They are often found schooling with other types of similar sized Tuna, as well as swimming alongside dolphins, porpoises, and whales. The most colorful of all Tuna fish, adults sometimes also have distinct sickle shaped yellow fins, making them easily identifiable.
Yellowfin, also known as Ahi Tuna, are the most prolific pelagic sportfish in San Diego and Mexican waters, and will fill the bag of many angler over the hot summer months of Southern California. This species often feeds very close to the surface and so is easily found and able to be targeted by topwater techniques.
Another happy customer.
A beautiful catch.
Too many to count.
The gang is all here.
Yellowfin are mostly caught by trolling baits or lures or, since they're often found topwater (if not, chumming will get them there), by sight casting or kite fishing. Rapallas, Top water jigs, the veneral cedar plug, and feathered trollers are the most popular choices. Recently the advent and popularity of Kite Fishing and Balloon fishing have shown great promise, and increase catch efficiency. On the Free Line rig; Anchovies and sardines will work for smaller fish, mackerel for larger ones.
The largest Yellowfin can be found on the Pacific coast of Mexico, San Diego, CA and the Baja Mexico peninsula. Yellowfin come closer to shore when the water temperature increases, so summertime is your best bet. July, August, September are the best!
If you are lucky enough to catch a few, ask one of our captains to make you some Yellowfin Sashimi on the way home. Of all of the Tuna species, many people prefer the meat of this fish above all others.
Like other Tuna fish, the Yellowfin are also warm-blooded, which allows for agility and speed, and are one of the strongest fighters in the line up. They are often found schooling with other types of similar sized Tuna, as well as swimming alongside dolphins, porpoises, and whales.
The most colorful of all Tuna fish, adults sometimes also have distinct sickle shaped yellow fins, making them easily identifable.
Yellowfin is a seasonal fish!
Yellowfin tuna are typically found off the coast of San Diego from late spring to early fall. The best techniques for catching yellowfin tuna in this area include trolling with lures or live bait, such as mackerel or sardines, or casting jigs or poppers. Tuna also can be caught by casting or drift fishing with live bait, like squid or sardines. The best bait to use will depend on the time of year and what the fish are feeding on.
Where is the best place to find Yellowfin off the coast of San Diego?
The most productive areas to find yellowfin tuna off the coast of San Diego are along the edge of the continental shelf, in areas where there is a significant temperature break or where there are concentrations of bait fish. Some of the most popular spots include the 9-Mile Bank, the La Jolla Canyons, and the area around the Coronado Islands.
The one that didn't get away.
Nice fish bro!
2 for 1 special.
That is a fat one!
How to Identify a Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) can be easily identified by their yellow dorsal and anal fins, which give them their name. They are a large predatory fish that can grow up to 6.5 feet in length and weigh up to 440 pounds. They have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body that is dark blue or black on top and silver on the sides and belly.
The dorsal fin of a yellowfin tuna is tall and curved, running almost the entire length of the back. The anal fin is also tall and curved, located just before the tail. The pectoral fins are relatively short and located near the front of the body. The tail is crescent-shaped and has a deep notch in the middle.
One of the key characteristics that helps differentiate yellowfin tuna from other similar species is the presence of a bright yellow band running along the upper sides of the fish, which is most visible when the fish is alive. This band can extend from the gills to the tail, but is typically most vibrant in the middle of the fish.
Another way to identify yellowfin tuna is to look for the two keels, or ridges, running along the underside of the fish. These keels are located near the tail and are a unique characteristic of the species.
Overall, the combination of yellow fins, the yellow band, the shape of the dorsal, anal and pectoral fins, the crescent shaped tail and the keels are the key characteristics to identify a yellowfin tuna.
TEN YELLOWFIN TUNA FACTOIDS
Yellowfin tuna are members of the mackerel family Scombridae and are closely related to bluefin tuna.
They are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, typically in the open ocean but also near the coast.
They are fast swimmers and can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
They are apex predators and feed on a variety of fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Yellowfin tuna can live for up to 8 years and grow to be over 6 feet long and weigh over 400 pounds.
They are highly sought after by both commercial and sport fishermen.
Yellowfin tuna are considered a delicacy and are often used in sushi and sashimi dishes.
They are also canned and sold as a popular food item worldwide.
Yellowfin tuna populations have been overfished in some areas, and as a result, many countries have implemented quotas and regulations to manage their catch.
Yellowfin tuna have a relatively high oil content, which makes them a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. These essential nutrients are important for maintaining heart and brain health. Also yellowfin tuna is considered a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, bones, and other tissues. It is also low in saturated fat, which makes it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.