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Southern bluefin tuna

Thunnus maccoyii

Southern bluefin tuna© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) is a prized, fast‑swimming pelagic game fish prized for its size and powerful fight. It can grow up to 245 cm and is highly sought after for premium sashimi‑grade meat.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Scombridae

Max Size

245 cm

Max Weight

260 kg

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

0-2743m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Nov–Mar (Southern Hemisphere summer/autumn)

Best Time

Early dawn and late dusk

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Southern bluefin tuna

  • Use high‑speed offshore trolling with heavy‑drag reels to maintain 20‑30 knots.
  • Deploy outriggers and spreaders to keep lures separated and cover a wide swath.
  • Chunk live bait such as sardines or mackerel to attract schools before the strike.
  • Stay alert for surface splashes and follow the tuna’s “burst‑and‑run” behavior for a solid hook‑set.

Top Fishing Locations for Southern bluefin tuna

Port Lincoln Tuna Fleet

Australia
intermediate68% Common

World‑renowned charter fleet targeting Southern bluefin tuna off the coast of Port Lincoln, with abundant schools during the summer.

Best: Nov - Feb

Storm Bay

Australia
expert45% Occasional

Remote offshore waters of Tasmania where Southern bluefin tuna follow baitfish in the cooler months, accessed via specialist live‑bait vessels.

Best: Oct - Jan

Cook Strait

New Zealand
expert38% Occasional

Strong currents funnel tuna into the strait; popular with experienced anglers using trolling gear during peak migrations.

Best: Nov - Mar

False Bay

South Africa
intermediate27% Uncommon

Seasonal influx of Southern bluefin tuna in the summer, often combined with shark diving charters; requires experienced crew.

Best: Dec - Feb

Valparaíso Offshore

Chile
intermediate22% Uncommon

Occasional schools of Southern bluefin tuna appear along the continental shelf; accessed via offshore sport vessels.

Best: Jan - Mar

Sardinia – Strait of Sicily

Italy
expert13% Rare

Rare Mediterranean visitors; anglers travel for the challenge of landing a Southern bluefin tuna in clear, warm waters.

Best: Jun - Aug

San Matías Gulf

Argentina
expert8% Rare

Very remote Patagonian gulf where occasional stray Southern bluefin tuna are caught; logistically demanding trip.

Best: Oct - Dec

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Southern bluefin tuna

Recommended Equipment

RodHeavy‑action offshore trolling rod, 7‑9 ft
Line80‑150 lb test braided line with high‑strength leader
Lure TypeSkirted trolling plugs, surface poppers, or large feather rigs
TechniqueOffshore high‑speed trolling with outriggers, chunking, and chase‑down strikes

Best bait: Live sardines, mackerel, herring, or chunked bait