The rod we recommend for giant blue tuna stand-up fishing is a 6’0″ straight or bent butt rod rated for 130lb mono. This is typically going to be the highest rated rod in any series. There are no compromises here. Lighter rods simply will not have enough power to get the fish to a position where the wireman get grab the leader.
Giant Tuna Reels
We strongly recommend using only lever drag reels for giant tuna. Two-speed reels provide an added advantage. We recommend an 80lb class reel. Anything smaller will simply not have enough line capacity. The 130lb class reels are simply too heavy for stand-up. Lever drag reels are a must for circle hook fishing (also recommended – see below). The lever drag allows the angler to slowly increase the drag pressure to ensure the proper hook set.
Giant Tuna Line
Tuna can be notoriously line-shy and for this reason all chunking is done with a 100-200ft 130lb mono top-shot backed with hollow braid of equal or higher rating (typically 200lb). The thinner diameter of the braid provides significant additional line capacity. The hollow braid allows for an optimal connection where the mono topshot threaded into a 6-8ft section of the braid.
Leader and Connections
When targeting giant bluefin tuna we use a bimini twist knot to create at approx 20ft length of double main line passed twice through the eye of a 300-400lb ball bearing swivel. The swivel is connected to an 8-10ft length of 130-200lb fluorocarbon leader using a loop protector and a crimp. The hook is also connected using a loop protector and a crimp. Both crimps are covered with black electric tape to reduce their visibility.
Giant Tuna Hooks
We strongly recommend using only 9/0 – 11/0 3x circle hooks for several reasons:
- These hooks have a smaller visible profile the “J” hooks of the same rating (great for line-shy fish)
- Circle hooks virtually ensure the hook will set on the corner of the mouth reducing the chance that the tuna’s teeth will chafe through the leader
- Circle hooks ensure the least amount of damage to fish that are destined to be released
Fighting Belts for Giant Bluefin Tuna
We recommend the Black Magic Fighting Belt and Harness. This is a uniquely designed belt and harness system that helps prevent side-to side slippage while reducing back strain. It offers true seat conformation, more stability and fighting leverage!
Frequently Asked Questions
For giant blue tuna stand-up fishing, a 6'0" straight or bent butt rod rated for 130lb mono is recommended. This rod is typically the highest rated in any series and provides the necessary power to help get the fish to a position where the wireman can grab the leader, without compromise.
Lever drag reels are strongly recommended for giant tuna because they allow the angler to slowly increase drag pressure, which ensures a proper hook set, especially when using circle hooks. Additionally, an 80lb class lever drag reel offers enough line capacity for these large fish while remaining manageable for stand-up fishing.
For chunking giant tuna, it is best to use a 100-200ft 130lb mono top-shot backed with hollow braid of equal or higher rating (typically 200lb). The braid’s thinner diameter allows for more line capacity, and the hollow braid enables an optimal connection with the mono topshot threaded into a 6-8ft section of the braid.
The leader setup involves creating about 20ft of double main line with a bimini twist knot through a 300-400lb ball bearing swivel. Attached to the swivel is an 8-10ft length of 130-200lb fluorocarbon leader connected using loop protectors and crimps. The hook is connected similarly with crimps covered in black electric tape to reduce visibility.
For giant tuna, 9/0 – 11/0 3x circle hooks are recommended. These hooks have a smaller visible profile than "J" hooks, are better for line-shy fish, ensure the hook sets on the corner of the mouth to reduce leader damage, and cause minimal harm to fish intended for release.
The Black Magic Fighting Belt and Harness is recommended for giant bluefin tuna. It features a design that prevents side-to-side slippage, reduces back strain, offers true seat conformation, greater stability, and enhances fighting leverage during long battles with large fish.