West Palm Beach Little Tunny Offshore Adventure

Little Tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus) is a dynamic member of the Scombridae family and Perciformes order, commonly known as Bonita, False Albacore, or Little Tuna. This smaller tuna variant combines the speed and fighting ability of larger tunas with accessibility for recreational anglers. In West Palm Beach waters this July, these schooling fish provide consistent action for offshore fishing enthusiasts.

Little Tunny Overview

Little Tunny represents one of the most exciting small tuna species available to Florida anglers. These fish are prized for their incredible speed, acrobatic fights, and willingness to take both live and artificial baits. Unlike their larger tuna cousins, Little Tunny remain accessible to light-tackle anglers while still delivering the characteristic tuna experience of blistering runs and aerial displays.

Little Tunny Habitat and Distribution

Little Tunny inhabit onshore, nearshore, and offshore waters throughout the Atlantic, making them versatile targets for various fishing approaches. Around West Palm Beach, they frequent temperature breaks, current edges, and areas with abundant baitfish. These fish prefer warmer waters and are commonly found in depths ranging from 30 to 200 feet, often associating with floating debris or structure.

Little Tunny Size and Weight

Adult Little Tunny typically measure between 24 and 48 inches in length, with weights ranging from 5 to 15 pounds. Most fish caught in recreational fisheries fall within the 8-12 pound range, providing excellent sport on appropriate tackle while remaining manageable for anglers of all experience levels.

Little Tunny Diet and Behavior

Little Tunny are aggressive predators that feed primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans. They hunt in schools, often driving baitfish to the surface in spectacular feeding frenzies. These fish 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 move south during fall and winter months.

Little Tunny Spawning Season

Little Tunny spawn in warmer waters during spring and summer months, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures reach the mid-70s to low-80s Fahrenheit. During spawning periods, they form larger aggregations and become more aggressive, making them excellent targets for anglers using trolling and live bait techniques.

Little Tunny Fishing Techniques

Successful Little Tunny fishing relies on speed and presentation. Trolling with small spoons, cedar plugs, or feathers at 6-8 knots proves highly effective. Live bait fishing with pilchards, sardines, or ballyhoo works well when schools are located. Kite fishing excels when fish are feeding near the surface. In July, anglers around West Palm Beach find them responding well to fast-moving lures trolled along current edges and temperature breaks.

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 tunas, with a firm texture ideal for grilling, searing, or sashimi preparation. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, Little Tunny provides healthy dining options. The key to quality is immediate bleeding and icing after capture.

Little Tunny Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Little Tunny?

A: Live pilchards, sardines, and ballyhoo work exceptionally well, along with small spoons, cedar plugs, and feathered jigs trolled at moderate speeds.

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

A: Look for them along current edges, temperature breaks, and areas with active baitfish from nearshore reefs to offshore waters in 50-200 feet of depth.

Q: Is Little Tunny good to eat?

A: Yes, when properly handled and prepared fresh, Little Tunny offers excellent eating with firm, flavorful meat perfect for grilling or sashimi.

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

A: Summer months provide excellent fishing, with dawn and dusk periods typically producing the most consistent action when schools are actively feeding.