BLUEFIN TUNA
Common names: Giant Tuna, horse mackerel
Description: Bluefin tuna are dark blue on top, changing to silver along their sides and belly. As with other members of the mackerel family, bluefin tuna have two dorsal fins, one anal fin, plus numerous dorsal and anal finlets. These fish are built for speed, having a torpedo shaped body and a large tail fin. Bluefin tuna can grow very big with the largest examples weighing above 1,500 pounds and measuring up to 12 feet long.
Where found: offshore
Similar species: none
Remarks: Bluefin tuna are pelagic fish that often travel in schools. Fish in the 350 to 500 pound range tend to journey in smaller schools numbering from a few to as many as 40 fish. The very largest fish tend to be mostly solitary. Bluefin tuna are built for speed and endurance and may can speeds of over fifty miles per hour. Seasonal migrators, tuna generally appear off New Englands coast by mid June. Tackle in the 80 to 130 class are the best choice for successfully landing one of these fish. Both trolling and chunk fishing are popular ways to catch tuna. Baits include herring, bluefish, mackerel, whiting and squid.