Ultimate 2-Night San Diego Offshore Fishing Trip

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus Thhynnus) Description 

The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is one of the largest, fastest, and most fantastically colored fishes. They are shiny blue on the top, shimmery silver/white on the bottom, and reddish rear fins. They can be easily distinguished from other tuna species because of their smaller pectoral fins. They have a pineal window on its head that helps them navigate a wide range of areas. This large fish has a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body that is built for speed and endurance. 

Size 

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is the largest of its tuna family. Their average size is 6.5 feet in length and 550 pounds, although they can reach twice that size in both weight and length, a whopping 12 feet and 1400 pounds. The Pacific Bluefin Tuna is smaller, with its average size of 5 feet and 130 pounds. 

Interesting Facts 

Bluefin Tuna meat is regarded as the most delicious, particularly among sashimi eaters. Their demand and prices have soared over the last 30 years worldwide, especially in Japan. Commercial operations have found new ways to catch them causing overfishing causing the Bluefin Tuna population to plummet. There are international conservation efforts to save them, but illegal fishing in Europe is endangering this species. 

The Bluefin Tuna hunts fish such as mackerel and herring. They also enjoy invertebrates like crustaceans and squid along with kelp and zooplankton. Their average speed is 43 mph, and they can dive as deep as 3,300 ft. Sharks and whales are occasional predators of young Bluefin Tuna. 

Spawning 

Atlantic Bluefin spawn in the Gulf of Mexico and spawning starts in April and ends in June. Up to ten million eggs are laid, and eggs hatch within 48 hours. They have broadcast spawning habits, which means a few males and females at the same time in the same water release sperms and eggs. This ensures maximum fertilization of eggs. 

Habitat and Distribution 

Bluefin Tuna is native to both the eastern Atlantic and the western Atlantic Ocean. These large fish are a highly migratory species found from New Foundland to the Gulf of Mexico. They are also native to the Mediterranean Sea and were populated in the Black Sea until they were fished to extinction. As they are a rare warm-blooded fish, they comfortably live in cold and tropical water.

Baits and Lures 

If trolling for Bluefin, we suggest using small fish natural bait of herring as your first choice. Squid, mackerel, mullet, or whiting can also be used. If using a line, chumming will attract the tuna and use lures of cedar plugs, spoons, feathers, and poppers. Also helpful to use colors of blue or bone, black or silver. 

Fishing Techniques - How to Catch Bluefin Tuna 

These are strong fish and tough fighters. Be prepared for fast surface runs and deep dives. You will need the heaviest of tackles and a sturdy fishing belt. Some of the most effective techniques include using live bait, trolling with lures, and jigging. Live bait such as squid or mackerel will entice the bluefin tuna to bite, while trolling with lures can mimic the movement of their natural prey. Jigging involves dropping a lure to the bottom of the ocean and quickly reeling it back up, which can trigger the predatory instincts of bluefin tuna.  Trolling is the way to find the school Bluefins as it lets you search and cover large areas. Use of outriggers and your tackle should consist of snap swivels so that anglers can swap the rigs easily. Note, they usually bite more aggressively during the evening and morning hours. Locate them near offshore islands, reefs, or deep-feeding areas. 

Jigging and chunking are two of the most effective and widely-used techniques for catching bluefin tuna. With the ability to target specific depths and locations in the water column, anglers can increase their chances of success in catching these prized fish. However, it is important to note that these techniques require a certain level of skill and experience to execute properly. Furthermore, it is crucial to practice responsible fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of the bluefin tuna population. When implemented responsibly, these techniques can result in thrilling and rewarding experiences for anglers looking to catch the fish of a lifetime.

Is Bluefin Tuna Good to Eat?

Bluefin tuna has a succulent, fatty flavor that is best enjoyed in its purest form when served raw or lightly seared. This exquisite fish has a naturally delicious Umami taste that can be compromised with marinades or sauces. Bluefin sushi is the perfect way to savor the rich and buttery flavor of this fish. When crafting bluefin sushi, only the highest quality cuts are selected and carefully prepared to enhance their natural taste. Whether enjoyed as sashimi or in a maki roll, bluefin tuna is a delicacy that should be savored in all its unadulterated glory. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, delicate flavor make it a favorite of sushi lovers worldwide. So next time you order bluefin tuna, consider opting for it raw or lightly seared to fully appreciate its natural taste.

Bluefin tuna is a type of fish that is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world for its rich and flavorful taste. However, the global population of Bluefin tuna has declined drastically in the past few decades due to overfishing and other environmental factors. This has made it difficult to sustainably harvest this fish, and has also led to concerns about the impact of Bluefin tuna consumption on the environment. Achieving sustainable bluefin tuna conservation means implementing strategies to ensure that bluefin tuna populations will continue to thrive and supply communities with a healthy and delicious source of food. This involves carefully monitoring fishing efforts and adopting fishing methods that minimize harm to the environment and other marine species. There is also a need for strict regulations and policies to prevent overexploitation of bluefin tuna populations. Despite these concerns, many people still enjoy eating Bluefin tuna for its delicious taste, and continue to seek out this fish as a special treat. While it is important to be mindful of the impact of our food choices on the environment, there is no denying that Bluefin tuna is a tasty and sought-after food that many people enjoy.

Regulations

The species is federally managed and requires obtaining a permit and reporting your catch NOAA Fisheries has put in place regulatory measures put in place to manage bluefin tuna bycatch in the pelagic longline fishery for Atlantic highly migratory species.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) Fish Description

The Mahi Mahi or common dolphinfish, also known as the dorado, are distinctive because of the play of colors on their bodies. Their sides are golden, with splotches of bright blue and green on the back and sides, and pectoral fins a shimmering blue, and underwater they can boast a myriad of other colors depending on where the light hits. However, once taken out of the water, they change colors drastically like a light show, before finally fading to a silver or muted yellow-grey upon demise.

The head of this fish species is also quite distinct. It is characterized by a single dorsal fin that extends from the head to the tail or caudal fin. Male Mahi Mahi have a protruding head, while the female head looks a little more rounded.

The Mahi Mahi or common dolphinfish belong to the family Coryphaenidae, with the other one being the pompano dolphinfish. The juvenile common dolphinfish are often mistaken for the pompano as the latter are quite small. One way to distinguish them is to look at the pectoral fins. The pectoral fins of the common dolphinfish are longer compared to that of the pompano. They also differ in color once out of the water. The common dolphinfish will look a little more yellow, while the pompano will sport a more prominent silver.

Why are Mahi Mahi called Dolphin Fish?

The confusion over the name Mahi Mahi started in Hawaii. The answer to why lies in the history of the Hawaiian Islands where this fish species was first discovered. In Hawaii, mahi mahi means very strong or strong-strong and fisherman referred to the fish as Mahi Mahi. That phrase caught on and the fish went from Mahi to Mahi Mahi and sometimes spelt Mahi-Mahi. It is also referred to as "dorado," However, when mahi-mahi made its way to the US mainland, it was commonly referred to as "dolphin fish." This led to confusion among consumers who thought they were buying or eating meat from actual dolphins.

There are a couple of local stories as to how that happened. It is believed that early American fishermen visiting Hawaii heard locals referring to the fish as "mahi-mahi," mistook it for a reference to dolphins and started calling it "dolphin fish." A second theory suggests that mahi-mahi's long dorsal fin may be responsible for its common name. But the Mahi Mahi, Dophinfish, Dorado is not related to Dolphins in any way. 

Why are Mahi Mahi called Dorado?

Mahi Mahi are also known as Dorado, which means golden in Spanish. This name is derived from their distinctive golden-yellow coloration, which is most prominent when the fish is removed from the water. When they are in the water, their coloration is more blue and green. The name Dorado is commonly used in Latin America, occasionally in Hawaii and is also used in other parts of the world where Spanish is spoken.

Is Mahi Mahi Good to Eat?

This fish is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world and has become popular due to its mild taste and firm texture. But the question remains - is mahi mahi a good fish to eat? Yes, Mahi-Mahi is a popular food to eat, especially in coastal regions where it is readily available. It is a firm, white-fleshed fish that has a mild, sweet flavor, which makes it appealing to a wide range of tastes. It is also a versatile fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilled, baked, fried, or broiled. In many parts of the world, Mahi-Mahi is used as a substitute for other popular fish species such as tuna or swordfish. It is a healthy fish that is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other important nutrients. Overall, Mahi-Mahi is a popular and delicious fish that is enjoyed by many people around the world.

When it comes to taste, many people enjoy mahi mahi because it has a mild flavor that isn't too overpowering. Its flesh is typically white with pinkish hues and has a slightly sweet taste compared to other types of fish. When prepared properly, it can be a flavorful and satisfying meal. Some people describe its flavor as being similar to that of swordfish or tuna, but with a slightly milder flavor profile. The versatility of Mahi-Mahi also makes it a popular choice for a range of cuisines, from Caribbean to Asian. Overall, if you enjoy seafood, there is a good chance you will find Mahi-Mahi to be a tasty and enjoyable fish to eat.

Mahi Mahi Size and Diet

The Mahi Mahi or common dolphinfish do not live long, with some reaching five years but rarely exceeding four. They, however, spawn all year long and mature quite quickly, making their population quite strong and stable. The average size for the Mahi-Mahi is 39 inches, weighing from 15 to 29 pounds. The Mahi-Mahi world record is 87 pounds.

The Mahi Mahi are carnivorous and are known as great swimmers, making them fantastic predators. They are not very particular with what they eat, though they do adapt as they mature. The juveniles of this fish species feed on crustaceans, while the adults focus on bony fishes. They are quite partial to the flying fish. They feed mostly during the day.

Interesting Facts About the Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

• This fish species mature quickly at three to four months. They practice broadcast spawning, a reproductive behavior wherein both females and males release their respective eggs and sperms into the same water column. This practice apparently guarantees a better chance of fertilization.
• Female Mahi Mahi spawn two to three times annually. In their lifetime, they can produce millions of eggs.
• Big consumers of this fish species: the United States and the Caribbean. The Japanese, Hawaiian, and Australian markets are also significant.
• If you're catching a Mahi-Mahi to eat, make sure to store it with lots of ice before you clean it. This serves two purposes: it keeps your fish fresh, and it makes cleaning much easier.
• The flesh of the Mahi-Mahi is similar to that of the swordfish. It tastes best pan-fried, grilled, roasted, or simmered in sauce. Because its flesh is firm, it is also good to cook it over wood or coal.
• The Mahi-Mahi is also has a small instance of ciguatera poisoning, which is caused when the toxins from Gambierdiscus toxicus are consumed by the fish accidentally and grow in their bodies through time.

Fishing Technique: How to Catch Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish 

The common dolphinfish are prized both as game fish and as commercial species. Anglers love fishing for them because they are quite stunning to look at and can also make great food.

When fishing for the common dolphinfish, one should look for an area that has a lot of floating debris by the edge of the reef, as this fish species are attracted to such. Also, anglers should keep a look out for frigate birds trolling any floating debris as they can take you to some big catch.

This fish species can be caught with trolling near weedlines, floating debris, and currents. If you choose to do so, make sure you employ the use of 30- to 50-pound class rods and reels. With trolling, you can use live bait (ballyhoo or squid are most recommended) or artificial lures. Make the bait skip on the surface of the water to excite the common dolphinfish (they love a good flying fish for their meal, after all).

The common dolphinfish are quite strong swimmers and are quite hard to reel in, so anglers will do well with an equally strong tackle, and perhaps another one for back-up just in case the one you're using breaks off while you're reeling this strong fish in.

Is a Mahi Mahi a Tuna?

No, Mahi-Mahi, also known as dolphin fish, is not a type of tuna. Mahi-Mahi is a species of fish in the Coryphaenidae family, while tuna belongs to the Scombridae family. Although both Mahi-Mahi and tuna are popular fish to eat, they have different characteristics and are not closely related. Mahi-Mahi has a mild and sweet flavor with a firm texture, while tuna has a more robust and meaty flavor with a soft and flaky texture. Additionally, Mahi-Mahi is typically found in warmer waters, while tuna can be found in a wider range of habitats.

Why is Mahi Mahi called Dolphin?

There has been some confusion regarding whether or not mahi mahi is a dolphin. Mahi-Mahi is sometimes referred to as a dolphin or more likely, a dolphin fish, because of its similar appearance to the mammal dolphin. While both species share similar physical characteristics such as their long dorsal fins and bright colors, they are distinctly different animals. Mahi mahi belongs to the Coryphaenidae family of fish, while dolphins belong to the Delphinidae family of mammals. However, it's important to note that Mahi-Mahi is not related to dolphins in any way. 

It's important to clarify this misconception because many people avoid eating mahi mahi due to their belief that it's related to dolphins. In reality, consuming responsibly sourced and properly prepared mahi mahi can be a healthy and sustainable choice for seafood lovers.

Is Mahi Mahi Safe to Eat? 

When it comes to questions about its safety as a food source, many people are left wondering whether it's safe to eat or not. In general, mahi-mahi is considered safe to consume, but there are some risks associated with eating this fish that must be taken into account. 
One of the main concerns regarding mahi-mahi consumption is the risk of ciguatera. Ciguatera is a type of food poisoning caused by eating fish that have consumed toxic algae. Mahi-mahi can be a carrier of this toxin if they have eaten smaller reef fish that were contaminated with ciguatoxins. Symptoms of ciguatera include vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms such as tingling sensations in the fingers and toes. While ciguatera is most commonly associated with reef fish such as barracuda and snapper, it can also affect pelagic species like mahi mahi.

Where do Mahi Mahi Live? Habitat and Distribution

This surface-dwelling fish species are typically found under floating objects. Sometimes those floating objects are floating sargassum, and sometimes they can even be ships.

The common dolphinfish are found worldwide in warm and temperate waters, distributed along the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They occur in both the western parts (particularly the Sea of Japan, around the Philippine Islands, and Taiwan) and eastern parts (from the Oregon and Californian coasts to Peru) of the Pacific Ocean. In the warmer waters of Southern California, their population is quite abundant, particularly in Newport Beach San Diego, Long Beach, and Dana Point. In the Atlantic coast, they are found in Florida, particularly Miami, West Palm Beach, and the Keys.

Yellowfin

Yellowfin (Ocyurus Chrysurus) Fish Description

The yellowfin is an oval-shaped fish with a pointy head and an almost symmetrical body profile. It has a bright yellow stripe stretching from snout to tail that pales as it matures. The top half of its body is darker, ranging from olive to blue with yellow splotches. The bottom half is paler, usually white or light pink. 

Its caudal fin is prominently forked and is a bright yellow. Its other fins are also yellow or yellow-green with a continuous dorsal fin that has 12-13 rays and an anal fin with 9 rays. The area below the eye, snout, and jaws are scaleless. 

The yellowfin is unique and is not confused with other species, only comparable in terms of flavor. Its white, flaky flesh is a known substitute for grouper, swordfish, tilefish, and amberjack.

Yellowfin Diet & Size

Most yellowfin caught by anglers range from 8 to 14 inches and do not usually surpass 16 inches. However, it’s been recorded at a length of 34 inches, and the international record for weight is 11 pounds. 

This small fish is a nocturnal feeder that usually feeds above the substratum. Its diet primarily consists of shrimp, crabs, octopus, squid, cuttlefish, marine worms, and smaller bony fish. They may also feed on zooplankton and pelagic fish eggs.

Interesting facts about the Yellowfin 

• It’s commercially farmed in various parts of the world for sashimi
• It’s the only species in its genus.
• It’s popular for public aquariums and hobbyist aquarists
• The yellowfin population in the Bahamas is under threat from the invasive lionfish
• Yellowfinis reported to hybridize with the lane snapper and cubera snapper.
• Smaller yellowfin are called “Tails” while larger ones are called “Flags”

Fishing Techniques: How to Catch a Yellowfin  

Yellowfin is sought by recreational anglers and is a game fish that can be handled by children. Using light tackles with this fish is suitable, especially since they are scared by thicker lines and bigger hooks.  

A popular way to catch yellowfin is by chumming from a vessel. After throwing the chum, it’s recommended to wait several minutes to let the fish get comfortable with it. Be aware of which way the current is drifting so that the chum doesn’t go underneath or in front of the boat.

Smaller yellowfin will attack any bait or lure, but the good size ones are smarter and will avoid any lines they spot in clear waters. To avoid spooking them, use a 15lb mainline and a 20lb to 30lb fluorocarbon leader with a medium action spinning rod. If fishing multiple lines put them in one at a time. 

A small strip of dead bait such as ballyhoo, shrimp, bonito, or minnows wrapped in an oat ball works well in mid-depth to deeper waters. For shallower depths, bare bait and even live bait will be effective. A size 1/0 J-hook with a 1/16 ounce jig head is suggested to help ease the bait to mix with the chum. 

Still fishing, drift fishing, and trolling are other popular techniques to combine with your preferred lures or by casting with jigs and flies. The yellowfin is typically hooked in the range of 30 to 120 feet deep around reefs or structures. Warmer months are better for catching this fish, but they are available year-round.

Yellowfin Habitat & Distribution

The yellowfin is primarily a marine reef-associated fish usually found inshore. It has been known to also live in habitats with soft bottoms or submerged vegetation. It usually dwells at depths between 33 and 230 feet, but can also be found near the surface, and as deep as 590 feet.  

The yellowfin is primarily native in the Western Atlantic, ranging from Massachusetts (USA) to southeastern Brazil. It’s been documented in the Bermuda, Gulf of Mexico, and the West Indies. Their normal range is around south Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. 

Spawning occurs in large groups offshore at the reef edges throughout the year, with varying seasonal peaks between March to August. Each female can have anywhere from 99,000 - 1.5million eggs and once fertilized, can hatch in about 20 hours. 

Juveniles are often seen near seagrass beds or vegetated inshore waters in estuaries and bays. Once the yellowfin becomes mature, it’s usually in coastal waters, most commonly around nearshore reefs. They frequently form schools and remain in the same area throughout adulthood, living up to 14 years.

Yellowtail Amberjack

Yellowtail Amberjack (Seriola lalandi)

The Yellowtail Amberjack (Seriola lalandi) is a saltwater gamefish and a popular target for commercial and recreational fishers alike because it is easy to attract with practically any bait one would happen to have. You can easily distinguish a Yellowtail Amberjack from other fishes with its yellowish dorsal, pectoral, pelvic, anal, and caudal fins, which is where it gets its name from. Aside from the brightly colored fins, it generally has a long, slender body that has blue, bluish-green, or purplish-green hues on top and bright white to silver bellies.

Interesting Facts

• This fish species is prized in Japan because of its good-tasting oily meat, which is used for making sushi.
• Because of its popularity, Yellowtails are raised in fish farms in Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
• The biggest Yellowtail Amberjack caught by an angler on record is 8.2 feet long and weighs a little over 200 pounds.
• Fishing for Yellowtails was restricted throughout the 60s and 70s due to expansive commercial gill net fishing. The restrictions were lifted since then as the fish population is able to recover, thanks to the species’ long life expectancy and fast spawning.

Speed and Average Size

Yes, as mentioned earlier, the Yellowtail Amberjack can grow as long as eight feet and as heavy as two hundred pounds but don’t get your hopes too high as this species commonly grows between fifteen and twenty-five pounds. If, however, you’re lucky enough, you can maybe catch a forty pounder. Just a word of warning, though: Yellowtails are known to be fast and strong swimmers. So if you happen to hook a Yellowtail Amberjack, reeling it in will probably not be an easy task.      

Habitat and Distribution

While the Yellowtail Amberjack can pretty much be found in tropical and temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean, it’s known to have high concentrations around Catalina and San Clemente Islands, in the Santa Monica Bay and off Long Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point, and San Diego—especially during summers when the coastal waters are warm. They can also be found as far south as Baja California Sur in Mexico, with Cedros and Benitos Islands being spawning areas.

The Yellowtail Amberjack is a benthopelagic, which means it mostly lives and feeds near the bottom; although it can sometimes wander in midwaters or even near the surface in search of food. And for a higher probability of catching this species, it’s best that you cast your lines over kelp beds, rocky reefs, and other underwater structures as they are known to look in such areas for crustaceans, small fishes, and squids, which are their main diet.

Yellowtail Amberjack Fishing Tips

As we’ve mentioned, catching a Yellowtail isn’t that easy. You can, however, significantly up your chances of catching one (or even two) if you know the tricks. Here are some tips to help you catch a Yellowtail Amberjack:

• Yes, you can either use live or artificial bait, but for a higher probability of catching this fast fish, you’re going to be better off using live ones as its erratic movements can help attract this particular fish more.
• As Yellowtail Amberjacks commonly swims deep, you can coax them near the surface with chum.
• If you’re going for a larger (as we all go for, naturally) Yellowtails, you might want to use a heavy tackle so that it won’t easily break as this powerful fish struggles.
• Never reel in too fast and forcefully so that it won’t get too alarmed and try to struggle harder. Although, you have to watch out and not allow it to swim deeper into the reefs and other structures as it might snap your line.
• When reeling in this fish, you should wear gloves as holding the braid for too long can cause significant damage to unprotected hands.