Bigeye Tuna

Other names: ʻahi

The bigeye tuna, Thunnus obesus, is a large, migratory fish found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. Known for its robust body and large eyes, it is highly valued in commercial fisheries, especially for sashimi. This species is popular among sport fishers for its size and strength.

Length
~180 (max 250)
Weight
~120 (max 180)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
13-29° F
Depth
300-500 ft

Other names
ʻahi
Length
~180 (max 250)
Weight
~120 (max 180)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
13-29° F
Depth
300-500 ft

Popular lures for Bigeye Tuna

Herring

Mackerel

Mullet

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Regulation for Bigeye Tuna

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Season
Always open
Bag limit
No
Vessel limit
-
Trophy limits
-
Max size
-
Min size
27"
Measurement
Curved fork length
Prohibited methods
Gigging, snagging

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Living Conditions

🐟 Habitat preferences
- Bigeye tuna inhabit deep, pelagic waters, often found in open oceans
- They frequently prefer water near the thermocline
- They feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans, foraging day and night
- Juveniles form surface schools, while adults prefer deeper waters
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs year-round in tropical waters
- Females release eggs in open water, which are fertilized by males
- Larvae drift with ocean currents before maturin
- Adults exhibit seasonal migrations to specific spawning sites and are multiple spawners, spawning over several months