Tuna Charters in Gloucester MA

School tuna range in size from 90 to 250 lbs and provide the fight on a life time for both new and experienced anglers. Depending on conditions we combine both trolling 30 or 50 lb class stand up rods, jigging and run and gun spin casting to breaking fish. During the course of a trip is not uncommon to cover over a hundred nautical miles in search of these great game fish. School tuna belong to the customer and limits are set by the National Marine Fisheries Service. As it stands now in 2011, the daily bag limit for every charter will be one fish measuring 27" to less than 47" and one fish from 47" < 59" (curved fork length. Any fish measuring between 59" and less than 73" must be released. By regulation, any fish 73" and greater belongs to the boat and I will give the charter a free future trip. 2010 saw fish averaging 70" and therfore we should find plenty of 75"fish in 2011. Tackle and anglers' skills will be pushed to the limit with these 300lb+ fish!

We will participate in the Tag-a-Tiny^® program in conjunction with the Large Pelagics Research Lab of the University of New Hampshire. This program is designed to study the annual migration paths and habitat use of juvenile bluefin tuna. Unfortunately funding for this program is in jeopardy but we hope the powers to be will recognize the importance of their work and fund this vital program. We will be participating in the Tag-A Tiny Tuna Tournament again this year as well. The proceeds from this tournament directly benefit the Pelagics Lab. The boat is available for charter on these dates so please call, book a tournament charter, and help out a great cause!

School tuna trips will only be taken if the fish are known to be in the area. Last year, fishing began in mid June and was solid through mid July when it tapered off due to exceptionally warm waters. However in late August the fish returned and in September and October we saw incredible bites as the fish prepared to move south for the winter. This is the best time to fish for tuna! Many trips saw multiple hook ups and tired fisherman by the end of the day!

Some guests last year combined fishing for tuna during the early morning bite and then finishing the day by loading their coolers with ground fish fillets. We will offer this option again this year for those interested.