Tuna Trolling

CAPT ANDY LOCASCIO OCT 3, 2010 10:13 PM

[vc_row type=”full_width_background” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”bottom” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_image=”8776″ bg_image_type=”default” bg_position=”center center” background_image_loading=”default” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”8%” bottom_padding=”8%” text_color=”light” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” enable_gradient=”true” color_overlay=”#0a0a0a” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_t_to_right_b” shape_divider_position=”bottom” shape_divider_height=”350″ bg_image_animation=”none” parallax_bg=”true” parallax_bg_speed=”fast” shape_type=”mountains” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”left” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”center” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” font_color=”#FFFFFF” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” content_layout=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” max_width=”400″ text_direction=”default”]

Tuna Trolling

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” top_margin_tablet=”20px” top_margin_phone=”20px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” centered_text=”true” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” content_layout=”default” gradient_type=”default”][nectar_cta btn_style=”curved-arrow-animation” heading_tag=”span” link_type=”regular” button_color=”extra-color-1″ button_color_hover=”#2FBF71″ text_color=”#FFFFFF” text_color_hover=”#FFFFFF” button_border_thickness=”0px” alignment=”center” alignment_tablet=”default” alignment_phone=”default” constrain_group_2=”yes” constrain_group_3=”yes” constrain_group_4=”yes” icon_gap=”5″ display=”block” display_tablet=”inherit” display_phone=”inline-block” url=”/chat/?omega_prompt=Tuna+Trolling+Tackle” link_text=”Use Our Interactive Checklist & Where to Buy” padding_top=”20px” padding_bottom=”20px” padding_left=”15px” padding_right=”15px” font_size_desktop=”22″ font_size_phone=”18″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”60px” constrain_group_1=”yes” bottom_padding=”60px” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” bottom_margin=”20px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”2/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” content_layout=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]The rods we recommend for tuna trolling is a 5’6″ to 6’6″ conventional stand-up rod or a 6’6″ to 8′ chair rod rated for 30lb mono or higher. Because tuna trolling is used for smaller tunas such as yellowfin tuna and albacore and larger tunas including giant bluefin (slow trolling) which can go over 1000lbs, a broad range of rods and reels are recommended. Going to higher rated rods will allow the angler to put more pressure on bigger fish and shorten the fight time, but may take some of the sport out of fighting smaller fish. Heavier line can also be a handicap when the fish are line-shy.

The stand-up tackle is exactly the same that is used for tuna chunking.

A reasonable guide for rod and reel ratings are as follows:[/vc_column_text][nectar_cta btn_style=”curved-arrow-animation” heading_tag=”span” link_type=”regular” button_color=”extra-color-1″ button_color_hover=”#2FBF71″ text_color=”#FFFFFF” text_color_hover=”#FFFFFF” button_border_thickness=”0px” alignment=”center” alignment_tablet=”default” alignment_phone=”left” constrain_group_3=”yes” constrain_group_4=”yes” display=”block” display_tablet=”inherit” display_phone=”inherit” url=”/chat/?omega_prompt=Tuna+Trolling+Tackle” link_text=”Use Our Interactive Checklist & Where to Buy” padding_top=”20px” padding_bottom=”20px” padding_left=”20px” padding_right=”20px” font_size_desktop=”22″ margin_top=”40px” font_size_phone=”18″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” bottom_margin=”20px” top_margin_tablet=”20px” top_margin_phone=”40px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” content_layout=”default” gradient_type=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”7772″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”5px” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”40px” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” top_padding=”20px” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]

Tuna Trolling Reels

We strongly recommend using only lever drag reels for tuna trolling. Two-speed reels provide an added advantage. Tuna can be notoriously line-shy and for this reason all chunking is done with mono. For even larger fish and added line capacity anglers can use a mono top shot of 100-200ft backed with braid of equal or higher rating. The thinner diameter of the braid provides significant additional line capacity.

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.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]

Leader and Connections

We always use short bimini twist should tied into the main line. The double line created by the bimini must is then tied using a simple a clinch knot to a 300lb (or larger) ball bearing swivel with a snap. The snap is attached to the much heavier leaders (used for wiring the fish) that are part of the lure or spreader bar rigging.

We recommend rigging lures using 80lb or higher fluorocarbon leader. When targeting giants we use either 130lb or 200lb leader.

If you prefer a wind-on leader, the bimni is simply hitched to the loop in the wind-on. Be sure that there is a barrel swivel somewhere in the rig to avoid twist from a fouled lure.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]

Tuna Trolling Lures

As for lures they are a lot of choices. There are dozens of effective spreader bars and daisy chains made by numerous manufacturers. However, most of our favorites spreader bars are custom built using components from Olde Salt Tackle. Our favorite daisy chains and feathers are also from Olde Salt Tackle.

When it comes to single lures nothing beats the versatility of the Iland Lures. These are a well kept secret in the Northeast and are effective for yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, wahoo, mahi, white marlin, and blue marlin. These are very tough lures that come in a wide variety of head shapes and colors. They can be fished alone, however some of the smaller sizes are simply deadly for tuna with small ballyhoo rigged behind them. The most effective colors are either black/red or green/yellow though on certain days other colors have also been very effective. When the big marlin are around make sure to have at least one 10 1/2″ Iland Express in the spread (typically in dark colors).[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”40px” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]

Fighting Belts for 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![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rods are recommended for tuna trolling?+

For tuna trolling, it is recommended to use a 5’6″ to 6’6″ conventional stand-up rod or a 6’6″ to 8′ chair rod rated for 30lb mono or higher. Heavier rods allow anglers to apply more pressure on larger tuna species and shorten fight times, but may reduce the thrill of fighting smaller fish.

Why are lever drag reels preferred for tuna trolling?+

Lever drag reels are preferred because they allow the angler to slowly and precisely increase the drag pressure, ensuring a proper hook set, especially when using circle hooks. Two-speed lever drag reels offer additional advantages in managing tuna's powerful runs and the fish's line-shy behavior.

What is the recommended line and leader setup for tuna trolling?+

A good setup includes a monofilament main line with a short bimini twist tied to a 300lb or larger ball bearing swivel, attached to heavy fluorocarbon leaders of 80lb or higher for typical tuna, and up to 130lb or 200lb for giant tuna. Using a mono topshot backed with braid can increase line capacity and reduce diameter for long runs.

What types of lures are effective for tuna trolling?+

Effective tuna trolling lures include custom-built spreader bars and daisy chains, especially those from Olde Salt Tackle, as well as versatile single lures like Iland Lures. Iland Lures come in various head shapes and colors and are successful for yellowfin, bluefin tuna, and other species. Preferred colors include black/red and green/yellow, with larger sizes used for big marlin.

How do fighting belts help during tuna trolling?+

Fighting belts like the Black Magic Fighting Belt and Harness provide stability and reduce back strain by preventing side-to-side slippage and offering true seat conformation. This improves leverage and comfort, which is essential when battling large tuna for extended periods.

Why is monofilament line preferred when chunking for tuna?+

Monofilament line is preferred during chunking because tuna can be line-shy, and the mono line is less visible underwater, increasing the chances of a successful hookup. It also has some stretch which can absorb sudden runs and reduce fish break-offs.

Can tuna trolling tackle be used for other fishing styles?+

Yes, the stand-up tackle used for tuna trolling is the same as that used for tuna chunking. This versatility makes it convenient for anglers to switch between techniques without changing equipment.