Giant Bluefin Tuna Fishing.

July - September.

Each New Zealand winter, between late June and mid September both Southern Bluefin and their larger cousins the Northern Pacific Bluefin Tuna migrate past the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. The smaller 'Southerns' ranging from 80kgs to 150kgs arrive first but as the winter progresses the larger 'Northerns' move in and seem to take over the food chain through to mid September.

A majority of these 'Northerns' range between 200kgs and 280kgs, although the current world record stands at 325kgs(723lbs) and there are many of these Northern Bluefin taken in excess of 300kgs each season.

The main body of tuna use the fleet of large Hoki trawler's as their main source of food during their stay. These large factory ships make the fishing both exciting and challenging with hectic bite-times occuring when the nets are hauled and their catch is processed. It's certainly not uncommon to have huge schools of these jumbo's following the factory ships at any one time waiting for the much anticipated feeding time.

Chunking also works well at times, with huge tuna commonly being raised to the back of the boat with a steady stream of chum... all great fun with great visuals.

The tuna have generally 'bit' best during night time over the past few seasons, although if crews are prepared to be patient and persistent during the day they have been able to pick up the odd fish, especially if leader and hook sizes are compromised to accomodate the better light during the day.

These tuna pull really hard, making even some our stronger anglers grunt and groan a fair bit. Add this to the fact a majority of the fishing done at night and that the west coasts weather can be at times 'chilly' to say the least... it all makes this fishery truelly challenging but a must for the more serious fisherman.

Ports of departure are either Westport or Greymouth, depending on where the main body of fish lie... although Westport is probably the preferred option.

If targeting giant Bluefin is your thing and for more information on costings and charter availabilities contact Geoff.