quote:Hey CS: The average size Blue Fin Tuna-BFT out here is around 100lbs, but can reach sizes well over 1000lbs. Average size 300lbs. They are migratory and start to show up in June but are fished aggressively between August and October and sometimes through early November depending on the water temps. Sept. and Oct. being the best months.
Typically the NMFS will shut down the fishery once the quota is met. The quota is measured in Metric Tons (MT).
We will go offshore about 21 miles but the fish can be as close as 8 miles. There's a bank out here caled Stellwagon and you can do a google search for more info. It's loaded with bait fish that BFT love. Also, you can get on a web site called Pete's Bait shop which is similar to this. These guys doing nothing but talk about BFT.
Also, the fish is typically sold to Japenese fish buyers either out at sea or in port. Your choice. One 600lb tuna can fetch $9,000 depending on quality, demand, and supply.
We use a hand line method. It goes like this. You have a plastic basket filled with about 600 feet of 5/16-7-16 braided rope. Your choice. To that you tie a braided shock cord. To that you tie a 130lb mono leader. We use Seaguar flurocarbon. And to that you use a damn big hook. You now bury your hook into the bait: herring is good.
You can float your bait at depths you spot the fish on your finder using little balloons like you see at a birthday party. Many times the fish are spotted on the surface and you can harpoon them, or you can troll. I've seen people catch them accidently while ground fishing using jigs. Shocker! Most guys sit at one spot for hours using the rope and ball method. The ball meaning your fish has taken 600 feet of line and now you chase him until the ball stops moving.
So there you have it.
Hey Stephen,whats the average size blue fin you get and how far offshore are you going.Overnighters on cattle boats?
Trolling or jiggin?
And what the hell do you do with 500lb of tuna when you get em?
cs
