Little Tunny Fishing with Rich Adler

Little Tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus), also known as False Albacore or Bonita, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Scombridae. This smaller member of the tuna family is distinguished by its streamlined body, dark wavy lines on the back, and distinctive spotted pattern below the pectoral fins. In West Palm Beach waters this August, anglers frequently encounter these fast-swimming predators in both nearshore and offshore environments.

Little Tunny Overview

Little Tunny represents one of the most accessible tuna species for recreational anglers, combining the fighting characteristics of larger tunas with more manageable size. They're highly valued for their aggressive strikes, powerful runs, and acrobatic fights that test both angler skill and equipment. These fish serve as excellent introductions to tuna fishing while providing experienced anglers with consistent action throughout the year.

Little Tunny Habitat and Distribution

Little Tunny inhabit onshore, nearshore, and offshore waters along the Atlantic coast, with West Palm Beach serving as prime habitat year-round. They prefer areas with strong currents, temperature breaks, and abundant baitfish concentrations. Around Florida's coast, they're commonly found near reefs, wrecks, and drop-offs where smaller fish congregate, making them accessible to both shore-based and boat anglers.

Little Tunny Size and Weight

Adult Little Tunny typically range from 24 to 48 inches in length, weighing between 5 and 15 pounds. While smaller than their Yellowfin and Bluefin cousins, they compensate with incredible speed and endurance. The largest specimens can exceed these averages, with fish over 20 pounds occasionally caught in deeper offshore waters.

Little Tunny Diet and Behavior

These opportunistic predators feed primarily on small schooling fish, squid, and crustaceans. They hunt in coordinated schools, often driving baitfish to the surface in spectacular feeding frenzies. Little Tunny are most active during dawn and dusk periods, though they can be caught throughout the day when conditions are favorable. Their migratory nature means they follow baitfish movements and temperature gradients seasonally.

Little Tunny Spawning Season

Little Tunny spawn in warmer waters during spring and summer months, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures reach optimal ranges. During spawning periods, they form larger aggregations and become more aggressive in their feeding behavior, making them excellent targets for anglers. Post-spawn fish often exhibit increased appetite as they recover from reproductive activities.

Little Tunny Fishing Techniques

Successful Little Tunny fishing employs various techniques including trolling with small lures, live bait fishing, and casting to surface schools. Popular baits include pilchards, sardines, and small mackerel, while effective lures range from cedar plugs to small spoons and jigs. In August around West Palm Beach, kite fishing with live baits proves particularly effective, keeping offerings in the strike zone longer and triggering aggressive responses from hunting schools.

Little Tunny Is It Good to Eat?

Little Tunny offers excellent eating when properly handled and prepared fresh. The meat is darker and more flavorful than larger tuna species, with a firm texture that works well grilled, blackened, or prepared as sashimi. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, it provides healthy dining options while being lower in mercury than larger tuna species due to its position in the food chain.

Little Tunny Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Little Tunny?

A: Live pilchards, sardines, and small mackerel work exceptionally well, along with small trolling lures like cedar plugs and spoons in the 2-4 inch range.

Q: Where can I find Little Tunny near West Palm Beach?

A: Look for them around reefs, wrecks, and temperature breaks in 60-200 feet of water, particularly where baitfish schools are active.

Q: Is Little Tunny good to eat?

A: Yes, when handled properly they offer excellent eating with firm, flavorful meat that's perfect for grilling or sashimi preparation.

Q: When is the best time to catch Little Tunny?

A: Early morning and late afternoon provide peak activity, though they can be caught throughout the day during favorable conditions and active bait movements.