Species
Longfin tuna
The most abundant tuna species in the Cape and the backbone of the local commercial fishery.
Why are longfin the most reliable tuna here?
Because there are simply more of them, across a longer window. Longfin are the backbone of Cape Town’s sustainable commercial tuna fishery, and massive schools are located using sonar.
Once hooked on trolled lures they can be caught for hours on spinning gear and bait, with guests often seeing hundreds of fish around the boat on a good day.
How do they compare to yellowfin?
Smaller and far more numerous: 10 to 30 kilograms against a yellowfin range of 40 to 100. They shoal densely, so a located school usually produces multiple fish rather than one.
For a first offshore trip they are frequently the better introduction. The fight is real without being punishing, and the odds of connecting are higher.
The facts
- Species
- Longfin tuna
- Also known as
- Albacore, Langvin
- Scientific name
- Thunnus alalunga
- Family
- Scombridae
- Typical weight
- 8–30 kg
- Caught on
- Offshore
- Methods
- Trolled lures, Spinning, Bait
- Fished from
- Hout Bay Harbour
Seasonality
When to fish for longfin tuna off Cape Town
Based on how this fishery actually runs, not on a generic range. Each month links through to that month's conditions.
Questions
When is longfin tuna season in Cape Town?
March to May is the strongest window, but longfin are present in numbers through most of the year — they are the most abundant tuna species in the Cape.
How big are longfin tuna off Cape Town?
Typically 10 to 30 kilograms.
Read next
- experienceOffshore tuna fishingFull-day offshore charters for yellowfin, bigeye, bluefin and longfin tuna, on the grounds south-west of Cape Point.
- guideSeasickness on a Cape Town charter, and how to avoid itTake a non-drowsy antihistamine the night before and again ninety minutes before departure, eat a light breakfast, stay on deck looking at the horizon, and stay hydrated. Taking medication once you already feel ill does not work.
- guideWhat to bring on a Cape Town fishing charterSun protection, a warm windproof layer, soft-soled shoes, extra water, seasickness medication and a dry bag for your phone. Tackle, bait and safety equipment are supplied.