By Archer Hume
Macquarie Perch Fishing in Melbourne
Macquarie perch (Macquaria australasica) is a protected freshwater fish species native to Victoria, Australia. It is currently the focus of conservation efforts due to its declining population.
Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Albacore Tuna Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips
Albacore tuna is a popular game fish and commercial species known for its high-quality meat and fighting ability.
Source: fishingbooker.com
Table of Contents
Introduction
Albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga) is a streamlined, torpedo-shaped fish with distinctively long pectoral fins. They typically have a dark blue upper body, silvery sides, and a white belly. Albacore can grow up to 1.4 meters in length and weigh up to 60 kilograms, though most caught are smaller. These fish are highly migratory, found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide. In Victorian waters, they’re often found in offshore areas, preferring temperatures between 15-21C. Albacore are known for their powerful swimming abilities and can travel long distances in search of food. They feed primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans. Albacore tuna are prized by both recreational and commercial fishers for their high-quality, light-colored meat, often used in premium canned tuna products.
What restrictions are in place for Albacore Tuna fishing in Melbourne?
There is a combined bag limit of 5 albacore and/or skipjack tuna per person per day. There is no minimum legal size for albacore tuna. It’s important to note that this fish cannot be filleted in or on Victorian waters. The fish must be kept whole or in carcass form until you’re away from the water. However, it is permissible to fillet your catch on the cleaning tables at boat ramps.
How to catch Albacore Tuna
In Victorian waters, albacore tuna are typically caught by trolling or casting. Trolling is the most common method, using lures or baited hooks behind a moving boat. Effective trolling speeds range from 4-8 knots. When albacore are feeding near the surface, casting lures or live bait can be effective. Look for signs of feeding activity such as birds diving or fish breaking the surface. Early morning and late afternoon are often the best times for albacore fishing. Use strong fishing gear, as these fish are powerful fighters.
What should you fish with for Albacore Tuna?
When it comes to fishing for Albacore Tuna, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you can find success with nearly anything when fishing for Albacore Tuna, as both baits and lures are equally effective.
For the best chances of success, try using Pilchards as bait or fishing with a Soft Plastics. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons in your fishing area.
The Top 4 Baits to Use for Albacore Tuna
Bait fishing for Albacore Tuna offers a variety of options, but these four stand out as the most reliable choices:
- Pilchards
- Squid
- Whitebait
- Mackerel
The Top 4 Lures to Use for Albacore Tuna
Lure fishing for Albacore Tuna can be incredibly rewarding, especially when using these four top choices:
- Soft Plastics
- Hard Bodied Lures
- Trolling Lures
- Metal Spoon Lures
Where to catch Albacore Tuna in Melbourne
Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Albacore Tuna. While we couldn't pinpoint specific hotspots, Albacore Tuna can be found throughout Victoria. We recommend consulting local fishing authorities or experienced anglers for the most up-to-date information on prime fishing locations.
When planning your fishing trip for Albacore Tuna, consider factors such as seasonality, local regulations, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of success.
FAQs about Albacore Tuna fishing in Melbourne
What is the bag limit for Albacore Tuna?
Yes, there is a bag limit for albacore tuna. The combined bag limit for albacore and skipjack tuna is 5 fish per person per day. This means you can catch up to 5 albacore tuna, or a combination of albacore and skipjack tuna totaling 5 fish.
What is the size limit for Albacore Tuna?
There is no minimum size limit for albacore tuna in Victorian waters. This means you can keep albacore tuna of any size that you catch, as long as you adhere to the bag limit.
What are Albacore Tuna?
Albacore tuna is a popular game fish and commercial species known for its high-quality meat and fighting ability.
What are the best lures for Albacore Tuna?
When targeting Albacore Tuna with artificial lures, anglers have found success with the following options: Soft Plastics, Hard Bodied Lures, and Trolling Lures.
What are the best baits for Albacore Tuna?
For those who prefer bait fishing, the top choices for Albacore Tuna are: Pilchards, Squid, and Whitebait.
What are the best locations to catch Albacore Tuna?
While Albacore Tuna can be caught, there are currently no known specific locations for targeting them. Anglers may encounter them while fishing for other species in various water bodies around Melbourne.
