Striker Gearing Up for Bluefin Tuna Fishing Season

Striker Sea Charters, based in Tauranga, is ready to kick off another thrilling Bluefin tuna fishing season. Offering top-tier fishing trips, Striker Sea Charters provides anglers with an unparalleled opportunity to chase one of the ocean’s most prized species—the Southern Bluefin Tuna. Whether you’re looking for a 3-day Bluefin fishing adventure departing from Tauranga or a shorter 2 or 3-day trip from Waihau Bay, these charters promise an unforgettable experience.

A Premier Bluefin Fishing Experience

Southern Bluefin Tuna fishing is a high-adrenaline sport, and Striker Sea Charters meticulously tracks their migration to ensure the best chances of success. Anglers can look forward to trolling for Bluefin, a technique that maximizes the chances of landing these powerful fish. For those opting for the 3-day trip, an exhilarating day of deep drops is included, further enhancing the fishing adventure.

The Southern Bluefin tuna fishing season runs from mid-June to mid/late August, providing a limited window for anglers to secure their spots. With the expertise of Striker Sea Charters' seasoned skipper and crew, participants can expect to fish in some of New Zealand’s most coveted waters, with optimal conditions and tailored charters to suit both novice and experienced anglers alike.

The Southern Bluefin Tuna: A Prized Catch

The Southern Bluefin Tuna is a highly sought-after species, not only among New Zealand anglers but also on a global scale. Renowned for its rich, flavourful meat, this species is prized by seafood enthusiasts worldwide. The high value of the Bluefin has led to strict international management of commercial catch limits, making the opportunity to catch one even more special.

Bluefin tuna are powerful and fast swimmers, boasting a streamlined, muscular build. Their short dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins fold neatly against their bodies, providing them with incredible hydrodynamic efficiency. These fish are easily recognizable by their deep blue to black upper bodies, silvery-white undersides, and yellow-edged finlets, which can sometimes lead to confusion with the bigeye tuna.

Migration Patterns and Feeding Habits

The Southern Bluefin Tuna is widely distributed across the Southern Hemisphere, following complex migration patterns. By the time they reach New Zealand waters, they are generally mature adults. As opportunistic feeders, they prey on squid and various fish species, making them a formidable challenge for anglers.

In recent years, the recreational Bluefin fishery in New Zealand has seen explosive growth, especially in both the North and South Islands. This boom is largely attributed to commercial longliners sharing their knowledge with the recreational fishing community, allowing more anglers to successfully target these magnificent fish.

A Glimpse into History: Bluefin Tuna in New Zealand

Between the 1960s and 1980s, Japanese longliners harvested thousands of tonnes of Southern Bluefin Tuna from New Zealand waters annually. Much of this catch was taken before the establishment of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Today, strict regulations help maintain sustainable populations while still allowing anglers the opportunity to experience the thrill of catching these incredible fish.

The Biology of Southern Bluefin Tuna

Southern Bluefin Tuna are known for their impressive size and longevity. They can live up to 30 years, reaching a maximum size of around 190 cm and 140 kg by the age of 20. The recreational all-tackle world record for Southern Bluefin Tuna stands at an impressive 158 kg, caught in the Bay of Plenty—highlighting the potential for landing record-breaking fish during a Striker Sea Charters expedition.

Most Southern Bluefin Tuna reach maturity by the age of 12, making conservation efforts crucial in ensuring their continued presence in New Zealand waters.

Book Your Adventure

If you’re ready for an exhilarating fishing trip in some of the best waters New Zealand has to offer, don’t miss out on Striker Sea Charters’ Bluefin tuna trips. With seasoned expertise, premium accommodations, and an unmatched passion for fishing, Striker Sea Charters is your gateway to an extraordinary Bluefin fishing adventure.

Secure your spot today and get ready to battle one of the ocean’s most iconic game fish!