atlantic bluefin tuna

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Genus and Species:

Thunnus thynnus

Family:

Scombridae

Other Common Names:

BFT, Giants, Ahi

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Description:

Bluefin tuna have a dark back over a silver body with a yellowish dorsal fin and finlets. Bluefin tuna have fairly short pectoral fins relative to other tuna species and can grow to well over 1200-pounds. Bluefin tuna’s popularity as sushi in Japanese markets has led to its steady decline in some regions while still prolific in others. They are found in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Now considered a separate species from the Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis. Normally these tuna live in offshore waters but often come near shore to feed. These tuna are one of the most sought-after fish by commercial and recreational anglers. Trolling lures and baits, chunking, and live baiting are popular methods to catch these monster tuna.