Tuna fishing, a sport that has been enjoyed by anglers for centuries, requires the right equipment and supplies to ensure a successful catch. One of the most important items for any tuna fisherman is the fishing line. The type of line used for tuna fishing depends on the size and species of tuna being Targeted.
Lightweight monofilament lines are typically used when Targeting smaller-sized tunas such as skipjack and yellowfin. Monofilament is easier to cast and offers more flexibility when it comes to handling larger fish. It is also less likely to be damaged by saltwater, making it a great choice for offshore anglers.
For larger tunas such as bluefin, many anglers opt for braided lines. Braided lines have a much higher breaking strength than monofilament lines and are much more resistant to abrasion.
This makes them ideal for handling large fish that may put up a tough fight. Braided lines also have less stretch than monofilament, which allows anglers to feel even the slightest nibble from a tuna.
Fluorocarbon Lines
Fluorocarbon lines are another option for offshore tuna fishermen. Fluorocarbon is slightly heavier than monofilament but has excellent abrasion resistance and low visibility underwater, making it ideal for deeper waters where tuna can be found. The lack of stretch in fluorocarbon also makes it ideal for setting hooks and detecting bites.
Leader Material
In addition to the main line, most anglers use some form of leader material when Targeting tunas. This can be either monofilament or fluorocarbon depending on the conditions at hand.
Leaders should be long enough to allow the bait or lure to move freely through the water but short enough to make sure there’s no excess line that could spook potential catches.
Conclusion:
The type of fishing line used for tuna fishing depends on the size and species of tuna being Targeted, but lightweight monofilament is usually best for small tunas like skipjack and yellowfin while braided line works best for larger tunas like bluefin. Fluorocarbon is also an option as it offers excellent abrasion resistance and low visibility underwater. In addition, leaders made from either mono or fluorocarbon should be used in order to ensure maximum success when Targeting these powerful fish.
