Tuna
Montauk's offshore waters are a haven for various tuna species, offering an exciting challenge for both recreational and sport fishermen. The most common types found include:
Bluefin Tuna: Known for their impressive size, bluefins are often caught closer to shore starting in early July. These giants can weigh over 1,000 pounds and are a prized catch for any angler.
Yellowfin, Albacore, and Bigeye Tuna: These species prefer the warmer offshore waters of the canyons but sometimes move closer to shore due to warm-core eddies from the Gulf Stream.
How Tuna are Caught
Tuna fishing in Montauk is an exhilarating experience, thanks to the strength and speed of these magnificent fish. Here are the common methods used:
Trolling: This method involves moving the boat at a slow speed while dragging lures or baited hooks. It's effective for covering large areas and attracting tuna.
Bait Chunking: Later in the season, especially for bluefin tuna, bait chunking becomes a preferred method. It involves using chunks of bait to lure tuna and can lead to exciting feeding frenzies around the boat.
Prime Locations for Tuna Fishing in Montauk
The waters 30-70 miles off the Montauk coast are fertile grounds for tuna, especially from June to November. Charter boats like Lady Grace VI and Susie E II offer full-day and overnight trips to these offshore waters, providing anglers with the opportunity to land a prized tuna. The Northeast Canyons, in particular, are known for their productive fisheries and are a popular destination for Montauk tuna charters.
Montauk's reputation as a top tuna fishing destination is backed by decades of fishing expertise and a variety of charter options to suit every angler's needs. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or new to the sport, Montauk offers an unforgettable adventure in pursuit of these powerful creatures of the deep.
For those interested in embarking on a tuna fishing adventure in Montauk, it's recommended to book a charter with experienced captains who know the local waters and can provide the best opportunity for a successful catch. With the right guidance and a bit of luck, you might just land the tuna of a lifetime in the waters off Montauk.