Blackfin Tuna

If you're after Blackfin Tuna near Merritt Island, you're in luck – this area provides good opportunities, especially around offshore structures and reefs. Spring and fall migrations bring large schools of tuna close to the coast. Focus your efforts around natural reefs and artificial structures in 80-200 feet of water. Chumming is highly effective for attracting tuna to your boat; use a mix of cut bait and fish oil. When the tuna are feeding aggressively, they'll readily take live bait, jigs, and trolled lures. Pay close attention to your depth finder, as blackfin often hold at specific depths. The blackfin tuna in this area are known for their powerful runs, so be sure your tackle is up to the challenge. The waters off Cocoa Beach and Satellite Beach offer access, with several marinas offering charter services.