Blackfin Tuna

Targeting Blackfin Tuna off Palm Harbor means venturing into the Gulf of Mexico, where these schooling predators thrive. The key to success lies in locating areas with strong currents and abundant baitfish. Focus your efforts around offshore reefs, wrecks, and weed lines, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon hours. Spring and fall are generally the most productive seasons. Chumming can be highly effective in attracting tuna to your boat. Live bait is often the most effective offering, but jigs and small lures can also produce results. The Clearwater Marina provides a convenient launch point for accessing offshore fishing grounds. A local tip: trolling small, brightly colored lures near the surface can be an effective way to locate schools of tuna. Be prepared for a fast and furious fight, as blackfin tuna are known for their impressive speed and stamina. Pay attention to bird activity, as flocks of birds often indicate the presence of feeding tuna.