Little Tunny and White Grunt Fishing Guide

Little Tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus), also known as Bonita, False Albacore, or Little Tuna, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Scombridae. This smaller variant of tuna is distinguished by its streamlined body, dark wavy lines on the back, and silvery sides. In West Palm Beach waters this August, anglers frequently encounter schools of Little Tunny during offshore fishing adventures.

Little Tunny Overview

Little Tunny are fast-swimming pelagic fish that provide exciting action for anglers of all skill levels. They're prized for their aggressive strikes, powerful runs, and acrobatic fights. These fish are an important part of the offshore fishing ecosystem and serve as both predator and prey in the marine food chain.

Little Tunny Habitat and Distribution

These fish inhabit onshore, nearshore, and offshore waters throughout the western Atlantic. Around West Palm Beach, they're commonly found in depths ranging from 30 to 200 feet, often near temperature breaks, current edges, and areas with abundant baitfish. They prefer warmer waters and are most active during daylight hours.

Little Tunny Size and Weight

Little Tunny typically measure between 24 and 48 inches in length, with weights ranging from 5 to 15 pounds. Larger specimens can exceed these averages, with some reaching up to 20 pounds in prime feeding areas.

Little Tunny Diet and Behavior

These fish feed primarily on small schooling fish like sardines, anchovies, and flying fish, along with squid and crustaceans. They hunt in schools, using their speed and agility to corral baitfish. Their migratory nature means they move south during fall and winter months, making summer and early fall prime fishing seasons.

Little Tunny Spawning Season

Spawning typically occurs in warmer months when water temperatures rise above 75°F. During this period, they form larger aggregations and can be found in shallower waters, making them more accessible to charter fishing operations.

Little Tunny Fishing Techniques

Effective techniques include trolling with small spoons, feathers, and cedar plugs at speeds of 6-8 knots. Live bait fishing with pilchards, sardines, or ballyhoo also produces excellent results. In August around West Palm Beach, anglers often find success using light tackle and small lures near weed lines and current breaks where baitfish concentrate.

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. Many anglers prefer to bleed and ice the fish immediately after catching for optimal taste. Popular preparations include grilling, blackening, or using in fish cakes.

Little Tunny Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Little Tunny?

A: Small live baits like pilchards and sardines work excellently, along with trolled spoons, feathers, and small diving plugs in silver or blue colors.

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

A: Look for them around weed lines, temperature breaks, and current edges in 60-200 feet of water, particularly near offshore reefs and structure.

Q: Is Little Tunny good to eat?

A: Yes, when properly handled and prepared fresh, Little Tunny provides flavorful, protein-rich meat that's excellent grilled or blackened.

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

A: Summer through early fall offers the best action, with August being particularly productive in West Palm Beach waters during morning and late afternoon hours.