Little Tunny Fishing Adventures in West Palm Beach

Little Tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus), also known as False Albacore or Bonita, is a fast-swimming member of the Scombridae family found in the warm offshore waters around West Palm Beach this August. These smaller tuna relatives are prized by anglers for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, making them excellent targets for both novice and experienced fishermen.

Little Tunny Overview

Little Tunny are highly migratory pelagic fish that travel in large schools throughout the Atlantic. They're distinguished by their streamlined bodies, dark wavy lines on their backs, and distinctive spots below the pectoral fins. These characteristics help anglers identify them from other tuna species during the excitement of the catch.

Little Tunny Habitat and Distribution

These fish prefer warm offshore waters and are commonly found along the Gulf Stream edge near West Palm Beach. They inhabit depths from nearshore to deep offshore waters, following baitfish concentrations and temperature breaks. Their presence in Palm Beach waters peaks during warmer months when they follow schools of sardines, anchovies, and other forage fish.

Little Tunny Size and Weight

Adult Little Tunny typically range from 24 to 48 inches in length and weigh between 5 to 15 pounds. The largest specimens can exceed these averages, with some reaching weights over 20 pounds in prime feeding areas off the Florida coast.

Little Tunny Diet and Behavior

Little Tunny are voracious predators that feed primarily on small schooling fish, squid, and crustaceans. They hunt in coordinated schools, often driving baitfish to the surface where feeding frenzies create excellent fishing opportunities. Their peak feeding times occur during early morning and late afternoon when baitfish are most active.

Little Tunny Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in warm offshore waters during spring and summer months. During this period, Little Tunny form large aggregations in deeper waters, though they remain catchable for anglers targeting the edges of these spawning areas.

Little Tunny Fishing Techniques

Trolling with small lures, spoons, and feathers proves most effective for Little Tunny. They readily strike fast-moving baits that mimic fleeing baitfish. Jigging with vertical jigs works well when schools are located on fish finders. In August around West Palm Beach, anglers find success trolling the Gulf Stream edge where temperature breaks concentrate baitfish and attract feeding schools.

Little Tunny Is It Good to Eat?

Little Tunny has dark, rich meat with a strong flavor that's best when prepared fresh. The meat is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, though it requires proper handling and preparation. Many anglers prefer to bleed and ice the fish immediately for the best table quality, while others practice catch and release due to the species' sporting value.

Little Tunny Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Little Tunny?

A: Small trolling lures, spoons, feathers, and live sardines work best. Fast-moving presentations that mimic fleeing baitfish are most effective.

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

A: Look for them along the Gulf Stream edge, around temperature breaks, and wherever baitfish schools are active in offshore waters.

Q: Is Little Tunny good to eat?

A: Yes, when properly handled and prepared fresh. The meat is rich and flavorful, though it requires immediate bleeding and icing for best quality.

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

A: Summer months offer the best action, with early morning and late afternoon being prime feeding times when schools are most active.