TROLLING FOR GIANT BLUEFINS
After trolling for giant bluefins for over 20 years there are several things that I have learned, mostly I have learned the hard way.
By far the most important thing is, fish where they are, not where you want them to be. Random trolling will yield a fish from time to time, but you will very likely have a big fuel bill. Tuna don’t randomly swim around looking for a hook to bite. They spend there time where there is a plentiful bait supply. Look for structure which holds bait, work the bait and you will increase your chance of a hook-up.
Troll slow for bluefins, 4-5 knots is good. Less than 4 is even better. Bluefins have plenty of speed but they are lazy when it comes to feeding. You can troll spreader bars, rigged baits and swimming plugs. Tuna spent most of their time down in the water column, troll at least 1 deep bait. Placing a rigged mackerel behind a bar is a good move. Troll at least 1 or 2 baits way back, 200 yards is not too far back.
Tightlines Tackle is always ready to help with all your trolling needs. Call us at 1-800-664-8862. Also keep an eye on the NEW PRODUCTS category for the latest in gear.