Little Tunny

The little tunny is a pelagic, schooling, migratory species that can be found in very large schools.

Region

Northeast, South

Catch Ease

Easy

Habitat

Bay, Ocean

How to identify a Little Tunny

It is most easily distinguished from similar species by its markings. It has a scattering of dark spots resembling fingerprints between the pectoral and ventral fins that are not present on any related Atlantic species. It also has wavy, “worm-like” markings on the back. These markings are above the lateral line within a well marked border, and never extend farther forward than about the middle of the first dorsal fin. The markings are the same as in the closely related Pacific kawakawa but are unlike those of any other Atlantic species.

Where to catch Little Tunny

The little tunny occurs in tropical and warm temperate waters of the Atlantic Ocean from the southern New England states and Bermuda to Brazil and from South Africa to Biscay or Great Britain. They are also in the Mediterranean. Flocks of diving seabirds are often indicative of the presences of a school of little tunny, which may consist of many thousands of individuals. Because this species feeds on small pelagic fishes near the surface, any school feeding action tends to attract and excite birds. The following list includes additional details on where to catch this fish:

Baitfish Patches

Birds

Floating Foam and Debris

Night Fishing

Ripples, Currents, Swirls and Sprays

Reefs, Wrecks, and Shoals

Rocky Sea Floor

how to catch Little Tunny

Fishing methods include trolling or casting from boats using small whole baits, strip baits, or small lures such as spoons, plugs, jigs, and feathers. A few little tunny may be caught from shore. The dark flesh is esteemed by some and disdained by others. Often times, the little tunny is used for chum, strip baits, or as a trolled live or dead bait. The following are fishing methods used to catch this fish: