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Cape Cod Bluefin Tuna Fishing | Legit Fish

  • Published Date: July 22, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Boston
  • $10 - $1,275 price range

Summary

Get ready for a serious offshore fishing challenge with this full-day Bluefin Tuna trip out of Cape Cod. You'll head miles out to Stellwagen Bank, a prime spot known for massive tuna. These powerful fish put up an intense fight, so be prepared for an arm-wrestling match on the open ocean. The charter's perfect for up to four anglers looking to test their skills against one of the biggest game fish out there. Your fishing licenses are covered, so just pack some food and drinks for the day. The crew at Legit Fish Sportfishing will get you set up with heavy-duty gear to take on these ocean giants. It's a long day on the water, but landing a Bluefin is an accomplishment you won't forget. Even if you don't hook the big one, the experience of being out on Stellwagen Bank targeting these impressive fish is something special.
Cape Cod Bluefin Tuna Fishing | Legit Fish

Tuna Takedown

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Scenic view of Scituate, perfect for fishing

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Reeling in a trophy-sized striped bass on a perfect day!

Reeling in a trophy-sized striped bass on a perfect day!

Huge striped bass caught with a variety of techniques on a perfect day

Huge striped bass caught with a variety of techniques on a perfect day

Big striped bass reeled in during a day of fishing in Provincetown!

Big striped bass reeled in during a day of fishing in Provincetown!

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for an epic fishing adventure in Scituate!

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for an epic fishing adventure in Scituate!

Channel Catfish blasted today in Scituate's partly cloudy waters

Channel Catfish blasted today in Scituate's partly cloudy waters

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for epic deep sea adventures off Scituate!

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for epic deep sea adventures off Scituate!

Caught Some Awesome Haddock today!

Caught Some Awesome Haddock today!

Cloudy skies can't dampen the thrill of striped bass action!

Cloudy skies can't dampen the thrill of striped bass action!

Scenic view of Scituate, perfect for fishing

null

Reeling in a trophy-sized striped bass on a perfect day!

Reeling in a trophy-sized striped bass on a perfect day!

Huge striped bass caught with a variety of techniques on a perfect day

Huge striped bass caught with a variety of techniques on a perfect day

Big striped bass reeled in during a day of fishing in Provincetown!

Big striped bass reeled in during a day of fishing in Provincetown!

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for an epic fishing adventure in Scituate!

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for an epic fishing adventure in Scituate!

Channel Catfish blasted today in Scituate's partly cloudy waters

Channel Catfish blasted today in Scituate's partly cloudy waters

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for epic deep sea adventures off Scituate!

Partly cloudy skies set the stage for epic deep sea adventures off Scituate!

Caught Some Awesome Haddock today!

Caught Some Awesome Haddock today!

Cloudy skies can't dampen the thrill of striped bass action!

Cloudy skies can't dampen the thrill of striped bass action!

Scenic view of Scituate, perfect for fishing

null

Reeling in a trophy-sized striped bass on a perfect day!

Reeling in a trophy-sized striped bass on a perfect day!

Huge striped bass caught with a variety of techniques on a perfect day

Huge striped bass caught with a variety of techniques on a perfect day

Big striped bass reeled in during a day of fishing in Provincetown!

Big striped bass reeled in during a day of fishing in Provincetown!

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Cape Cod's Ultimate Bluefin Tuna Challenge

Strap in for the fishing trip of a lifetime off the coast of Cape Cod. We're talking about monster Bluefin Tuna that'll test every ounce of your angling skills. This full-day private charter takes you and three buddies straight to the legendary Stellwagen Bank, where these giants roam. It's just you, your crew, and the vast Atlantic - prime conditions for an epic battle with one of the ocean's most sought-after game fish.

What's the Deal?

Here's the scoop: we'll push off early, well before the sun peeks over the horizon. The run out to Stellwagen Bank takes a couple hours, but trust me, it's worth every minute. Once we hit the grounds, it's all hands on deck. We'll be using heavy-duty gear - think 130-pound class rods and reels that could stop a truck. The name of the game is patience and persistence. These tuna are smart, strong, and can weigh upwards of 1,000 pounds. When one hits, be ready for the fight of your life. It's not uncommon for battles to last several hours. But man, when you finally see that massive silver and blue torpedo break the surface? There's nothing like it in the fishing world.

Tuna Tactics 101

Alright, let's talk strategy. We typically use a mix of techniques to target these beasts. Trolling with spreader bars and daisy chains is a go-to method. We'll drag these lure setups that mimic schools of baitfish, sometimes for miles. When we mark fish on the sonar, we might switch to chunking - that's when we toss out cut bait to create a chum slick and entice the tuna to come investigate. If conditions are right, we might even try kite fishing, which keeps the bait right at the surface where those keen tuna eyes can spot it. Whatever method we use, when a Bluefin decides to eat, hold onto your hat. The initial run can peel off hundreds of yards of line in seconds. It's all about working as a team - one person on the rod, others clearing lines, and everyone ready to lend a hand. This isn't just fishing; it's an all-out endurance sport.

Why Anglers Are Hooked

Let me tell you, there's a reason why die-hard fishermen save up all year for a shot at Bluefin. It's not just about the size of these fish - though that's certainly part of it. It's the raw power, the intelligence, and the challenge they present. You're not just battling the fish; you're up against the ocean itself. The adrenaline rush when that reel starts screaming? It's addictive. And the sense of accomplishment when you finally bring one of these titans to the boat? Unbeatable. Plus, the waters off Cape Cod are some of the most productive Bluefin grounds in the world. You're fishing in the same spots where record-breaking catches have been made. Every time you drop a line, there's a chance you could be hooking into the fish of a lifetime.

The Bluefin Breakdown

Alright, let's geek out about Bluefin for a minute. These aren't your average tuna - we're talking about the apex predators of the open ocean. Atlantic Bluefin can grow over 10 feet long and weigh more than 1,500 pounds. They're built like torpedoes, with massive, sickle-shaped tails that can propel them at speeds up to 40 mph. These fish are warm-blooded, which is rare in the fish world, allowing them to dive deep and range into colder waters that other tuna species can't handle. Their eyesight is incredible - they can spot the tiniest changes in the water from hundreds of feet away.

In terms of when to target them, late summer through fall is prime time off Cape Cod. The tuna follow massive schools of herring, mackerel, and squid into our waters. What makes catching them so exciting? It's their raw strength and stamina. A big Bluefin can empty a full spool of line on its first run. They fight deep, they fight dirty, and they never give up. It's not uncommon for fights to last 3-4 hours or more. And when you finally get them boat-side? The sheer size and beauty of these fish is breathtaking. Their metallic blue backs and silver sides gleam in the sunlight. It's a sight you'll never forget.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, if you're serious about testing your skills against one of the ocean's ultimate game fish, this is your chance. Our full-day charter gives you the best shot at tangling with a genuine sea monster. We provide all the heavy-duty gear you'll need, plus the expertise to put you on the fish. Just bring your A-game, some snacks, and be ready for a workout. Whether you're looking to check Bluefin off your bucket list or you're a seasoned pro chasing that personal best, this trip delivers the goods. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait. Give us a call, lock in your date, and get ready for the offshore adventure of a lifetime. The tuna are out there - let's go get 'em!

Customer Review

quotes

Great Captain and awesome boat! To acquire knowledge one must study; but to acquire wisdom, one must observe.

TF
Thomas Flannery

July 15, 2022

Learn more about the specie

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus Thhynnus) Description 

The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is one of the largest, fastest, and most fantastically colored fishes. They are shiny blue on the top, shimmery silver/white on the bottom, and reddish rear fins. They can be easily distinguished from other tuna species because of their smaller pectoral fins. They have a pineal window on its head that helps them navigate a wide range of areas. This large fish has a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body that is built for speed and endurance. 

Size 

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is the largest of its tuna family. Their average size is 6.5 feet in length and 550 pounds, although they can reach twice that size in both weight and length, a whopping 12 feet and 1400 pounds. The Pacific Bluefin Tuna is smaller, with its average size of 5 feet and 130 pounds. 

Interesting Facts 

Bluefin Tuna meat is regarded as the most delicious, particularly among sashimi eaters. Their demand and prices have soared over the last 30 years worldwide, especially in Japan. Commercial operations have found new ways to catch them causing overfishing causing the Bluefin Tuna population to plummet. There are international conservation efforts to save them, but illegal fishing in Europe is endangering this species. 

The Bluefin Tuna hunts fish such as mackerel and herring. They also enjoy invertebrates like crustaceans and squid along with kelp and zooplankton. Their average speed is 43 mph, and they can dive as deep as 3,300 ft. Sharks and whales are occasional predators of young Bluefin Tuna. 

Spawning 

Atlantic Bluefin spawn in the Gulf of Mexico and spawning starts in April and ends in June. Up to ten million eggs are laid, and eggs hatch within 48 hours. They have broadcast spawning habits, which means a few males and females at the same time in the same water release sperms and eggs. This ensures maximum fertilization of eggs. 

Habitat and Distribution 

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fish United States Fishing Heatmap
Bluefin Tuna Map of Habitat

Bluefin Tuna is native to both the eastern Atlantic and the western Atlantic Ocean. These large fish are a highly migratory species found from New Foundland to the Gulf of Mexico. They are also native to the Mediterranean Sea and were populated in the Black Sea until they were fished to extinction. As they are a rare warm-blooded fish, they comfortably live in cold and tropical water.

Baits and Lures 

If trolling for Bluefin, we suggest using small fish natural bait of herring as your first choice. Squid, mackerel, mullet, or whiting can also be used. If using a line, chumming will attract the tuna and use lures of cedar plugs, spoons, feathers, and poppers. Also helpful to use colors of blue or bone, black or silver. 

Fishing Techniques - How to Catch Bluefin Tuna 

These are strong fish and tough fighters. Be prepared for fast surface runs and deep dives. You will need the heaviest of tackles and a sturdy fishing belt. Some of the most effective techniques include using live bait, trolling with lures, and jigging. Live bait such as squid or mackerel will entice the bluefin tuna to bite, while trolling with lures can mimic the movement of their natural prey. Jigging involves dropping a lure to the bottom of the ocean and quickly reeling it back up, which can trigger the predatory instincts of bluefin tuna.  Trolling is the way to find the school Bluefins as it lets you search and cover large areas. Use of outriggers and your tackle should consist of snap swivels so that anglers can swap the rigs easily. Note, they usually bite more aggressively during the evening and morning hours. Locate them near offshore islands, reefs, or deep-feeding areas. 

Jigging and chunking are two of the most effective and widely-used techniques for catching bluefin tuna. With the ability to target specific depths and locations in the water column, anglers can increase their chances of success in catching these prized fish. However, it is important to note that these techniques require a certain level of skill and experience to execute properly. Furthermore, it is crucial to practice responsible fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of the bluefin tuna population. When implemented responsibly, these techniques can result in thrilling and rewarding experiences for anglers looking to catch the fish of a lifetime.

Is Bluefin Tuna Good to Eat?

Bluefin tuna has a succulent, fatty flavor that is best enjoyed in its purest form when served raw or lightly seared. This exquisite fish has a naturally delicious Umami taste that can be compromised with marinades or sauces. Bluefin sushi is the perfect way to savor the rich and buttery flavor of this fish. When crafting bluefin sushi, only the highest quality cuts are selected and carefully prepared to enhance their natural taste. Whether enjoyed as sashimi or in a maki roll, bluefin tuna is a delicacy that should be savored in all its unadulterated glory. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, delicate flavor make it a favorite of sushi lovers worldwide. So next time you order bluefin tuna, consider opting for it raw or lightly seared to fully appreciate its natural taste.

Bluefin tuna is a type of fish that is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world for its rich and flavorful taste. However, the global population of Bluefin tuna has declined drastically in the past few decades due to overfishing and other environmental factors. This has made it difficult to sustainably harvest this fish, and has also led to concerns about the impact of Bluefin tuna consumption on the environment. Achieving sustainable bluefin tuna conservation means implementing strategies to ensure that bluefin tuna populations will continue to thrive and supply communities with a healthy and delicious source of food. This involves carefully monitoring fishing efforts and adopting fishing methods that minimize harm to the environment and other marine species. There is also a need for strict regulations and policies to prevent overexploitation of bluefin tuna populations. Despite these concerns, many people still enjoy eating Bluefin tuna for its delicious taste, and continue to seek out this fish as a special treat. While it is important to be mindful of the impact of our food choices on the environment, there is no denying that Bluefin tuna is a tasty and sought-after food that many people enjoy.

Regulations

The species is federally managed and requires obtaining a permit and reporting your catch NOAA Fisheries has put in place regulatory measures put in place to manage bluefin tuna bycatch in the pelagic longline fishery for Atlantic highly migratory species.

 

Bluefin Tuna

About the Legit Fish

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 260

Ready for some serious offshore action? This Cape Cod charter takes you and three buddies out to legendary Stellwagen Bank in search of monster Bluefin Tuna. These powerhouse fish are the stuff of angling dreams, known to test even the most seasoned fishermen. You'll spend a full day on the water, miles from shore, battling it out with some of the ocean's toughest fighters. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're up for the challenge, the payoff can be epic. The crew provides everything you need, including fishing licenses, so just bring your game face and plenty of snacks to fuel your adventure. Whether you're a tuna fishing pro or looking to check this off your bucket list, get ready for an intense day on the high seas going after one of the most sought-after catches around.
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