Yellowfin Tuna is the crown jewel of fishing in Los Angeles. You can find this prize swimming in the waters offshore, joined by Bluefin, Skipjack, and Albacore Tuna. With this variety at hand, it’s no wonder why many anglers consider these waters to be the birthplace of big game fishing!
What to Catch and When to Target it
Fishing for Tuna takes you offshore, typically anywhere from Catalina Island to the 60 mile mark. Each species makes their entrance at a slightly different time, and the result is a summer full of awesome Tuna fishing opportunities.
Yellowfin Tuna appears on the scene in July. Santa Catalina Island is famous for turning this whopper into a majorly sought-after game fish, and this is exactly where you can find him. Throughout late summer and fall you will also see Yellowfin passing through the Catalina Channel, making it possible to target this species within roughly 20 miles of shore. They usually take their leave sometime in November, along with the Bluefins. Anglers sometimes reel in a Skipjack Tuna while fishing for Yellowfin.
Bluefin Tuna makes an appearance as early as May in some years. You will find this species near Catalina Island, typically feeding near the surface. You might also get a glimpse of Albacore Tuna while fishing far enough from shore. Whereas it might be possible to catch other Tuna species on a half day or full day trip during peak season, your chances of landing an Albacore are best during an overnight trek to the bluest water. This species is typically seen in the area between June and September.
How to Fish
Anglers often locate Tuna while trolling, then they lure these predatory fish to the boat by chumming (preferably with live bait). You can land a Tuna using jigs or live bait such as anchovies or sardines. You can fish for Tuna in deep water using the dropper loop technique, which involves attaching a weight on the bottom and placing the hook roughly one foot above it.
