Featured Bluefin Tuna Charters in Chatham
Expert captains ready to take you on your next bluefin tuna adventure.
Fish Chatham Charters
Fish Chatham Charters | Cape Cod Fishing Charters | Offering Bluefin Tuna, Marlin, Bigeye Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Swordfish, Cod, and Haddock trips. Our 38-foot Northern Bay, Shearwater, is docked at a slip in Chatham's Stage Harbor, which provides access to the best fishing in the Northeast. Book a trip with Fish Chatham Charters today! Visit our website for fishing reports, trip options, photos, and pricing.
Abdow's Magic Fishing Charters
Captain Mike of Magic Fishing Charters in Chatham, MA knows where the fish are! From bluefin tuna to striped bass to Nantucket Rips fluke to groundfish like cod and haddock. And sharks galore. A short trip to the fishing grounds from the Chatham Fish Pier dock.
Best Time to Catch Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin Tuna can be caught year-round in Chatham. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Bluefin Tuna
Chatham, Massachusetts is a renowned location for Bluefin Tuna fishing, drawing anglers from afar. The waters off Chatham are incredibly productive due to the confluence of currents and the abundance of forage fish like herring and mackerel that migrate through the area seasonally. The tuna season typically peaks from July through October. Success here hinges on understanding the movement of bait schools. Use your electronics to locate these schools and focus your efforts in those areas. Natural presentations are key – live or dead bait rigged to drift naturally with the current are often more effective than artificial lures. Remember to pay close attention to water temperature breaks, as tuna often congregate along these edges. Adjust your fishing depth based on temperature and current readings, as these factors influence where the tuna are holding in the water column. Always be mindful of the strict regulations and quotas governing Bluefin Tuna fishing in Massachusetts.
How to Catch Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin Tuna Fishing Regulations in Massachusetts
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
Refer to current NMFS regulations
Size Limit
Refer to current NMFS regulations
License Required
Federal permit required
Bluefin Tuna regulations are highly variable and managed by NOAA/NMFS. Consult the latest federal regulations for specific details on seasons, size, and bag limits.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Massachusetts state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Bluefin Tuna in Chatham, MA?
Anglers in Chatham commonly use live mackerel, herring, or bluefish as bait for Bluefin Tuna. Trolling with artificial lures that mimic these baitfish can also be effective. Chunking with cut bait is another popular method.
When is the peak season for Bluefin Tuna fishing near Chatham?
While Bluefin Tuna can be caught year-round, the peak season in Chatham is generally from late summer to early fall (August-October). This is when the tuna are most abundant in the area.
Do I need a license to fish for Bluefin Tuna in Chatham, Massachusetts?
Yes, you'll need a federal permit to target highly migratory species like Bluefin Tuna. Because regulations are subject to change, refer to current NMFS (National Marine Fisheries Service) regulations.
Are there any size restrictions for Bluefin Tuna I can keep in Massachusetts?
Yes, size limits are in place to protect the Bluefin Tuna population. Refer to current NMFS regulations for the most up-to-date minimum size requirements.
More Bluefin Tuna Fishing in Massachusetts
Other Species to Fish in Chatham
Ready to Catch Bluefin Tuna in Chatham?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.