8 Hour Offshore Tuna Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
8hour offshore trip targets Bluefin and Yellowfin tuna speciesTechnical lure fishing instruction with casting and presentation focusSmall group experience accommodates maximum four anglers per trip
This isn't your typical half-day charter where you drop a line and hope for the best. Big Bass Dreams Sportfishing's 8-hour offshore tuna trip is a masterclass in technical fishing that'll push your skills to the next level. We're talking about heading out 20 to 80 miles into blue water territory, where the real fish live and the techniques matter. Starting at 6 AM sharp, you'll spend the day learning the art of artificial lure fishing for some of the ocean's most prized gamefish. With just 4 anglers max, you get the personalized attention that makes all the difference between going home empty-handed and landing the fish of a lifetime.
The moment we clear the harbor, you know you're in for something special. This trip runs during peak season from August through fall when the Bluefin and Yellowfin are moving through in serious numbers. We're not just dropping jigs and hoping – this is hands-on, technical fishing that requires timing, patience, and proper execution. You'll learn to read the water, spot foamers from miles away, and understand why presentation matters more than luck out here. The boat accommodates up to 4 anglers, which means you're not fighting for rod time or missing out on instruction. Every cast counts, and every technique we teach you can be applied to your future offshore adventures. Plan to bring your own lunch and plenty of water – we'll be focused on fishing, not meal service.
Artificial lure fishing for tuna is an art form, and you'll master several approaches during this trip. We start with casting techniques – learning how to present poppers, stick baits, and jigs to cruising tuna. When we find active foamers, it's all about reading the school's movement and getting your lure in the strike zone fast. But that's just the beginning. Depending on conditions, we'll also set up kite fishing rigs that keep baits dancing on the surface, deploy trolling spreads to cover water while we hunt, and work drift setups when the fish are holding deep. Each method requires different skills, and by the end of 8 hours, you'll understand when and why to use each one. The gear is top-notch – we're talking about reels that can handle 50-pound fish without breaking a sweat, and rods designed specifically for the techniques we're using.
Bluefin Tuna are the crown jewel of offshore fishing, and during peak season, these powerhouse fish move through our waters in impressive numbers. These fish can range from school-sized 20-pounders to massive 200+ pound giants that'll test every ounce of your skill and stamina. What makes Bluefin special isn't just their size – it's their intelligence and speed. They can hit 40 mph and dive to incredible depths, making every hookup a chess match between angler and fish. Peak season runs from August through November, and the cooler water temps bring them closer to shore where we can target them effectively.
Yellowfin Tuna offer a different but equally exciting challenge. These fish are built for speed and endurance, with their distinctive sickle-shaped fins and torpedo bodies. They're more aggressive feeders than Bluefin, often showing up in mixed schools that create absolute chaos on the surface. Yellowfin typically range from 15 to 80 pounds in our waters, and they're notorious for their long, powerful runs. What anglers love about Yellowfin is their willingness to hit artificial lures – poppers, stick baits, and jigs all produce when presented correctly. They're also excellent table fare, making them a favorite target for serious offshore enthusiasts.
Mahi Mahi, or Common Dolphinfish, are the wild cards that can turn any offshore trip into a non-stop action fest. These fish are drawn to floating debris, kelp paddies, and structure, making them perfect targets during our offshore runs. What makes Mahi special is their aggressive nature and acrobatic fights – they'll jump, tail-walk, and put on a show that'll have you grinning ear to ear. They typically range from 5 to 30 pounds, with bull Mahi reaching impressive sizes during peak season. Their rapid growth rate and schooling behavior mean when you find one, there are usually more nearby.
Yellowtail Amberjack round out our target species list, and these fish are pure muscle wrapped in determination. They're ambush predators that use structure and current to their advantage, making them a tactical challenge to hook and land. Yellowtail can range from 10 to 40 pounds, and they're known for their initial burst of speed and their ability to find every piece of structure within miles. What makes them exciting is their unpredictability – they might hit a surface iron one minute and a deep jig the next. During fall months, they school up in massive numbers, creating opportunities for multiple hookups and non-stop action.
This isn't just another fishing trip – it's an investment in your offshore skills that'll pay dividends for years to come. The techniques you'll learn, from reading water to proper lure presentation, are the foundation of successful tuna fishing anywhere in the world. With only 4 spots available and prime season running from August through fall, these trips book up fast among serious anglers who understand the value of quality instruction and productive fishing grounds. Whether you're looking to land your first tuna or improve your artificial lure game, this 8-hour adventure with Big Bass Dreams Sportfishing delivers the hands-on experience you need. Don't let another season pass wondering what you're missing 50 miles offshore – book your spot and discover why this technical approach to tuna fishing creates lifelong offshore addicts.
Your ride to the tuna grounds is a 2018 26' Pathfinder 2600 HPS center console that's built specifically for saltwater fishing. This Yamaha-powered boat cruises at 35 knots, getting you out to the 20-80 mile mark where the bluefin and yellowfin are feeding. The spacious layout comfortably handles 4 anglers with room to work lures and fight fish without getting tangled up. Essential electronics include GPS navigation, radar for those early morning fog banks, and a fish finder to locate schools and structure. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly on active fish, while the icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during the long day offshore. Built tough for open water conditions, this center console handles the swells and chop you'll encounter in deep water while providing a stable platform for casting at foamers and working kite rigs.
Thunnus ThynnusBluefin are the holy grail - powerful, intelligent, and absolutely beautiful fish. Atlantic bluefin average around 200-400 pounds, while Pacific fish run smaller at 100-200 pounds. They roam deep offshore waters but come up to feed, especially during dawn and dusk. Peak season is August through fall when they're following bait schools. Why do people chase them? It's the ultimate test - these fish are incredibly strong and can dive over 3,000 feet. Plus, the meat quality is unmatched for sushi. They're federally managed, so you need permits and must report catches. Best advice: use heavy tackle and be ready for a marathon fight. When they sound, don't panic - keep steady pressure and let your drag do the work.
Coryphaena HippurusThese golden beauties with their bright yellow-green sides and electric blue backs are real crowd-pleasers. Most run 15-30 pounds, though we've seen some push 40+ pounds. They love hanging around floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks in the upper water column. Peak season runs late spring through early fall when water temps climb. What makes them special? That gorgeous color show when they come out of the water, plus they're fantastic eating - firm, mild, and sweet. They fight hard with great jumps and long runs. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep your eyes open for the school - mahi often travel in groups, so where there's one, there's usually more. Work the area fast before they move on.
Thunnus AlbacaresYellowfins are the workhorses of the tuna world - fast, strong, and built for the deep blue. We typically see them from 30-80 pounds, though bigger fish are out there. They cruise the upper 300 feet of water, often around temperature breaks and current lines. Our best action runs August through fall when they're feeding heavily. What makes them special? Pure speed and power - these fish can hit 50 mph and dive deep when hooked. Plus, that red meat is sushi-grade quality. They're smart too, so presentation matters. When trolling, vary your speeds and watch for bird activity. If you see birds working, there's probably yellowfin underneath. One tip: when they're finicky, try chunking with whatever baitfish they're feeding on.
Seriola LalandiYellowtails are built like torpedoes and fight twice as hard as they look. Most of what we catch runs 15-25 pounds, but don't be surprised if a 40-pounder shows up. They hang around kelp beds, rocky reefs, and structure, usually staying deep but coming up to feed. Summer months are prime time when warm water brings them in close. These fish are prized in Japan for sushi - that rich, oily meat is pure gold. The fight is what gets people hooked though - they're fast, strong, and will test your tackle. Here's the thing: when you're fighting one, don't horse it. Let them run, keep steady pressure, and wear gloves. That braid will cut your hands up if you try to grab it during a long fight.
Dana Point