Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch blackfin tuna.
Best Time to Catch Blackfin Tuna
Blackfin Tuna can be caught year-round in Melbourne Beach. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Blackfin Tuna
If you're after some offshore excitement near Melbourne Beach, targeting Blackfin Tuna is a great choice. These hard-fighting tuna are abundant in the waters off the Florida coast, especially around structures and weed lines in the Gulf Stream. The best time to target Blackfin Tuna is generally during the warmer months, from spring through fall. Trolling small lures or live bait is a proven technique. A valuable local tip is to look for birds diving, as this often indicates schools of tuna feeding on the surface. Chumming can also be highly effective in attracting tuna to your boat. When fishing out of Melbourne Beach, the Port Canaveral area offers several charter options and boat ramps for easy access to the offshore grounds. Blackfin Tuna in this area are known for their schooling behavior and willingness to bite, making them a popular target for both recreational and commercial anglers. Be sure to have plenty of line on your reel, as these fish can make long, powerful runs.
How to Catch Blackfin Tuna
Blackfin Tuna Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per person per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Florida Saltwater Fishing License
Included in the aggregate bag limit of 10 highly migratory species.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for Blackfin Tuna around Melbourne Beach?
Anglers often find success using live bait such as pilchards or threadfin herring. Artificial lures like trolling plugs and jigs can also be effective for Blackfin Tuna.
Is there a closed season for Blackfin Tuna in Florida?
No, the season for Blackfin Tuna is open year-round in Florida, so you can target them any time of year near Melbourne Beach.
What is the daily bag limit for Blackfin Tuna in Florida?
The bag limit for Blackfin Tuna is 5 per person per day. There is no size limit, so you can keep any Blackfin Tuna you legally catch.
Do I need a fishing license to target Blackfin Tuna in Melbourne Beach?
Yes, you'll need a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License to legally fish for Blackfin Tuna and other saltwater species in the Melbourne Beach area.
More Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Melbourne Beach
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