8 Hour Offshore Tuna Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
8-hour offshore tuna fishing targeting Bluefin and Yellowfin speciesTechnical lure fishing instruction with casting and presentation techniquesSmall group experience accommodating maximum four anglers per trip
Ready to test your skills against some of the Pacific's most prized gamefish? This world-class 8-hour offshore adventure with Big Bass Dreams Sportfishing puts you right in the heart of prime tuna country, 20 to 80 miles off the Pacific West Coast. Starting at 6:00 AM, you'll join up to 3 other serious anglers for a hands-on fishing experience that's all about technique, timing, and trophy fish. From August through fall, when the Bluefin and Yellowfin are running hot, this trip delivers the kind of action that keeps anglers coming back season after season.
This isn't your typical "throw a line and hope" kind of fishing trip. You're signing up for a technical, demanding style of offshore angling that rewards patience and proper execution. The crew will have you casting artificial lures, working foamers, and learning the subtle art of tuna presentation from the moment you clear the harbor. With only 4 anglers max, you get plenty of coaching and rod time. Depending on what the fish are telling us, we might switch between kite fishing when they're finicky, trolling when they're spread out, or setting up drift presentations when conditions call for it. The Pacific West Coast can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key – both in our approach and our departure schedule, since weather and sea conditions always have the final say.
The bread and butter of this trip is artificial lure fishing – specifically targeting active foamers where tuna are feeding on baitfish near the surface. You'll learn proper casting angles, retrieve speeds, and how to read the water to spot productive areas. When the bite gets tough, we break out the kites to get baits away from the boat and present them naturally in the current. Trolling comes into play when we're covering water to locate schools, running spreads of cedar plugs and feathers that mimic the small fish these tuna can't resist. For drift fishing, we'll set up with live bait or chunk baits, letting the current do the work while we wait for that telltale screaming drag. Each technique requires different rod handling, hook-setting timing, and fighting strategies – skills that translate to better fishing no matter where you drop a line.
Bluefin Tuna are the crown jewel of Pacific offshore fishing, and for good reason. These powerful fish can exceed 200 pounds and fight like freight trains with an attitude problem. Peak season runs from late summer through fall when they're feeding heavily before their spawning migration. What makes Bluefin special isn't just their size – it's their intelligence and wariness that makes every hookup feel earned. They're known for their long, blistering runs and their ability to sound deep when they feel pressure, testing both your tackle and your endurance.
Yellowfin Tuna bring speed and acrobatics to every fight, typically ranging from 20 to 80 pounds in our waters. These fish are pure muscle, built for sustained high-speed chases, and they'll show you exactly what that means when you hook one. August through October is prime time when water temperatures hit their sweet spot. Yellowfin are aggressive feeders that respond well to fast-moving lures, and their willingness to bite makes them a customer favorite for anglers looking to put some serious bend in their rod.
Mahi Mahi, or Common Dolphinfish, are the opportunists of the offshore world. These gorgeous fish with their brilliant colors and distinctive profiles are typically found around floating debris, kelp paddies, or anywhere baitfish are congregating. They're known for their explosive strikes and aerial displays, jumping clear of the water in spectacular fashion. While they may not have the raw power of tuna, their unpredictable fighting style and willingness to bite make them a joy to catch, especially for anglers new to offshore fishing.
Yellowtail Amberjack round out the target list as the bulldogs of the bunch. These fish are built for power, not speed, and they'll use every ounce of that strength to try to get back to structure or deep water. During peak season, they school up in impressive numbers and can provide non-stop action when you find them. Their hard-charging strikes and determined fights make them a top-rated choice for anglers who want to feel that deep, pulsing power that only comes from a quality fish.
This trip delivers exactly what serious offshore anglers are looking for – quality instruction, proven techniques, and access to some of the best tuna fishing on the Pacific West Coast. With space limited to just 4 anglers, you get the personalized attention that makes the difference between going fishing and actually catching fish. The season is finite, the weather windows are precious, and the fish don't wait around. Whether you're looking to build real offshore skills or just want to get after some world-class gamefish, this renowned 8-hour adventure puts you in the right place at the right time with the right crew. Don't let another season slip by – secure your spot and get ready for the kind of fishing that creates stories worth telling.
Step aboard this 2018 26' Pathfinder 2600 HPS center console, purpose-built for serious saltwater fishing along the Pacific West Coast. This Yamaha-powered fishing machine cuts through the water at 35 knots, getting you to the tuna grounds fast and bringing you back with confidence. The spacious deck gives all 4 anglers room to work artificial lures and fight fish without getting tangled up. GPS and fish finder help locate those productive spots 20-80 miles offshore, while radar keeps you safe when fog rolls in. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly on schools without spooking fish. An onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during those long summer days chasing bluefin and yellowfin. Built tough for offshore conditions, this boat handles the swells while you focus on perfecting your technique and landing trophy tuna.
Thunnus ThynnusBluefins are the holy grail - massive, powerful fish that average 100+ pounds and can reach 400+ on our grounds. These warm-blooded predators cruise deep water 30-80 miles offshore, often near temperature breaks and upwellings. Peak action hits during our August-November season when they follow bait schools. They're legendary fighters that make blistering runs and sound deep. The meat quality is off the charts - this is what top sushi restaurants pay premium prices for. Heavy tackle is mandatory; these fish will test everything you've got. Local secret: when they're finicky, try flylined sardines with minimal weight. Sometimes the most natural presentation is what triggers that life-changing bite.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are stunning fish with brilliant golden sides and electric blue-green backs that put on a light show when hooked. Most run 15-29 pounds, though we've seen some push 40+. They love floating debris and kelp lines in warmer water, usually in the top 100 feet. Best fishing is late summer through fall when water temps climb. These fish are pure adrenaline - they jump, run, and fight hard for their size. Plus, they're some of the best eating you'll find offshore with firm, sweet white meat. Pro tip: when you find one mahi, there's usually more around. Keep some smaller baits ready and work the area thoroughly before moving on.
Thunnus AlbacaresYellowfins are the workhorses of our offshore trips - torpedo-shaped speedsters that can hit 50 mph. Most fish range 40-80 pounds, though we see some real bruisers over 100. They roam the upper water column 20-80 miles out, often mixed with dolphin pods or feeding birds. Peak season runs August through fall when they're actively feeding on foamers. What makes them special? They fight like freight trains and make premium sashimi. Technique matters - they're spooky and selective. When casting to foamers, make long casts and let lures sink before starting your retrieve. Iron jigs in blue/silver work great when they're deep.
Seriola LalandiYellowtails are built for battle - streamlined bodies with distinctive yellow fins that'll test your tackle. Most fish we see run 15-25 pounds, but 40-pounders show up around kelp beds and rocky structure. They hang near bottom around Catalina and San Clemente Islands, especially during summer when coastal waters warm up. These fish are fast, strong swimmers that'll make long runs and try to cut you off in the rocks. Anglers love them for the fight and excellent sashimi-grade meat. Live bait works best - sardines or mackerel. Here's the key: use heavy tackle and don't horse them. Let them run, but keep pressure to prevent them from diving back into structure.
Long Beach, CA, United States