Tuna, Blackfin
Food Quality:
Avg. Length
16-36in
Avg. Weight
2-25lbs
World Record
49lbs 6oz
FL Record
49lbs 6oz
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Thunnus atlanticus
Common Names
Bermuda tuna, Football, Blackfinned albacore, Deep-bodied tunny
Description
Blackfin Tuna share many similarities with other Tuna fish but can be differentiated by their dark colored finlets with occasional white outlines. The coloration of the Blackfin begins as a bluish black on the back of the fish, blends to a silvery gray on the sides and finishes in a white belly. Light stripes or spots can also show up on the lower rear of the fish. Blackfins have the least gill rakers among Tuna’s and have greyish dorsal and anal fins.
Habitat & Behaviour
Blackfin Tuna are often found in large schools, occasionally mixed with Skipjacks, in mid-depth or pelagic waters. They reside in the warm tropical and temperate waters of the Atlantic.
Natural Prey
Blackfin Tuna feed on a regular variety of cephlapods, plankton, crustaceans and small fish, often near the surface and in schools.
Handling Tips
Grab by tail when get close to boat, tail snares can be useful if the fish is larger. Can be very strong and gill plates can be very sharp. They have rows of teeth so do not put your finger in its mouth (teeth not especially sharp but still wouldn't be good to get bitten!). Gaff larger ones in back of head if harvesting. Ice right away, make cut in tail to bleed them. Warm blooded fish – melt ice quick so you need to bleed them. Flesh is desirable – so keep water and ice away from the flesh. See the How to Fillet a Tuna video for more details in the Essentials section of the app.
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