Bigeye tuna are among the most sought-after tuna offshore. They grow large, fight hard, and are prized at the table. They also spend much of their lives deep, which makes them less predictable than yellowfin. Trolling still catches plenty of bigeye when you fish the right water at the right time.
How to recognize a bigeye
Bigeye have noticeably large eyes, a plump body, and pectoral fins that typically reach back to the second dorsal fin. They can look similar to yellowfin, so check local identification guides and regulations, as limits may differ by species.
Where to find them
Bigeye roam deep offshore water, often along canyons, seamounts, and the continental shelf edge. In the U.S. Atlantic, the canyons off the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast are well known for bigeye in summer and fall. Hawaii and parts of the Pacific also have strong bigeye fisheries. They tend to be associated with cooler water at depth and strong temperature changes.
Best times to troll
Bigeye often feed near the surface at first light and again at dusk, then move deeper during the middle of the day. Many bigeye bites come in the gray light of dawn. Be on the grounds with lines in before sunrise. See our guide on the best time of day to troll.
Lures and colors
- Medium to large lures in the 7- to 12-inch range.
- Spreader bars and daisy chains to imitate squid and bait schools.
- Dark colors like purple, black, and green are often good in low light, with brighter patterns as the sun rises.
- Natural flash, such as abalone, adds visibility in deeper, darker water.
Speed and spread
Troll around 6 to 8 knots. Run a mix of spreader bars on the corners, resin lures on the riggers, and a straight-running lure on the shotgun. Many crews keep the spread compact so they can work marks and temperature edges with tight turns.
Tackle
Bigeye can be very large. 50 to 80 lb class outfits or heavier are common, with heavy fluorocarbon leaders. Stand-up gear or a fighting chair makes long fights manageable.
Using electronics
Watch for temperature breaks on SST charts and marks on the sounder along canyon walls. Our guides on SST charts and trolling ledges and canyons go deeper.
Shop our large resin lures for bigeye spreads.
