Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Large, powerful migratory fish prized for its high-quality meat. Found in southern waters of Victoria.
Source: www.blackmagictackle.com
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Southern Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) is a highly sought-after game fish in Victoria’s southern waters. Known for its size and strength, it can grow up to 2.5 meters and weigh over 250 kg. These fish are found in temperate and cold seas, preferring water temperatures between 10-22°C. They are typically found in deeper offshore waters but can come closer to shore when following food sources. Southern Bluefin Tuna are powerful swimmers and can cover vast distances during their migrations. They feed on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans. Fishing for Southern Bluefin Tuna in Victoria is popular from late autumn to early spring, with peak season often in winter. Anglers often target them by trolling or cubing (berleying) methods. Conservation efforts are in place due to their vulnerable status, making responsible fishing crucial.
There is a combined bag limit of 2 southern bluefin, yellowfin and/or big eye tuna per person. The possession limit for southern bluefin tuna is 2 fish or less than 160kg in any other form. This limit applies statewide, including at home. These fish must be kept whole or in carcass form while on Victorian waters and can only be filleted once away from the water or at designated cleaning tables at boat ramps.
To catch Southern Bluefin Tuna in Victoria, trolling with lures or live baits is a popular method. Use heavy-duty fishing gear due to their size and strength. Cubing or berleying can also be effective, attracting tuna to your fishing area. Fish in deeper offshore waters, particularly during cooler months. Look for signs of feeding activity such as birds diving or bait fish schooling on the surface.
When it comes to fishing for Southern Bluefin Tuna, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you will have a bit more success with lures when fishing for Southern Bluefin Tuna, but bait fishing is common too.
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.
If you're planning to use bait for Southern Bluefin Tuna, consider trying these top three choices that anglers swear by:
Lure fishing for Southern Bluefin Tuna can be incredibly rewarding, especially when using these four top choices:
Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Southern Bluefin Tuna. While we couldn't pinpoint specific hotspots, Southern Bluefin 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 Southern Bluefin Tuna, consider factors such as seasonality, local regulations, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of success.
Yes, there is a bag limit. The combined bag limit for southern bluefin, yellowfin, and big eye tuna is 2 fish per person.
No, there is no minimum legal size limit for southern bluefin tuna in Victoria.
Large, powerful migratory fish prized for its high-quality meat. Found in southern waters of Victoria.
When targeting Southern Bluefin Tuna with artificial lures, anglers have found success with the following options: Soft Plastics, Hard Bodied Lures, and Trolling Lures.
For those who prefer bait fishing, the top choices for Southern Bluefin Tuna are: Pilchards, Squid, and Mackerel.
While Southern Bluefin 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.
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