TideAhead

Saltwater Species Guide

Yellowfin Tuna

Thunnus albacares

A powerful warm-water tuna known as ahi in Hawaii and targeted around offshore structure.

Also Known As:Ahi
Yellowfin tuna identification illustration
NOAA Fisheries / Jack Hornady · U.S. government educational illustration · Image Source

Species Quick Facts

Common Angling Water

72–82°F

Approximate productive range, not a biological limit.

Typical Catch

Common recreational fish span roughly 20–100 pounds

Maximum Reported Size

Up to about 400 pounds

Best Baits & Lures

Best Baits
  • Sardine
  • Mackerel
  • Ballyhoo
  • Squid
Best Lures
  • Trolling skirts
  • Poppers
  • Stickbaits
  • Vertical jigs
Habitat

Tropical and subtropical offshore water near current breaks, seamounts, and bait concentrations.

How To Catch Yellowfin Tuna

Troll to locate fish or chum a deep school into range. Use a smooth drag and tackle matched to the expected class; long fights raise release mortality.

TideAhead Destinations

Harbor Guides For Yellowfin Tuna

HI

Honolulu & Oahu

A tropical pelagic fishery where ahi, mahi-mahi, and ono may be found close to steep island drop-offs.

Open Harbor Guide HI

Hilo & East Hawaii

A windward Hawaii port near steep pelagic water and productive coastal ledges.

Open Harbor Guide HI

Kahului & Maui

Maui access to shoreline structure, fast island channels, and pelagic water.

Open Harbor Guide HI

Nawiliwili & Kauai

Kauai's main harbor offers quick access to deep Pacific pelagic habitat.

Open Harbor Guide AS

Pago Pago & Tutuila

A deep South Pacific harbor surrounded by tuna and other pelagic habitat.

Open Harbor Guide GU

Apra Harbor & Guam

Guam's principal harbor opens onto reef edges and deep western Pacific water.

Open Harbor Guide

Species Sources

TideAhead summarizes stable identification, biology, habitat, and angling concepts. Use the primary sources below for deeper species context and live management information.