Blackfin tuna are one of the most popular offshore targets in the Florida Keys. They are fast, fun on light tackle, and great to eat. The Keys have deep water close to shore, which makes blackfin accessible on short trips.
Where to find blackfin in the Keys
- Humps: underwater mountains off the Keys, such as the well-known humps off Islamorada and Marathon, create upwelling that concentrates bait and blackfin.
- Wrecks: deep wrecks hold bait and tuna.
- The reef edge and drop-offs: blackfin patrol the edge where shallow water drops into deep.
See trolling ledges, canyons and seamounts.
When to go
Blackfin are caught in the Keys year-round, with spring and winter commonly considered strong seasons. Early morning and late afternoon bites are often best. See Florida offshore fishing by month.
Trolling lures
- Small lures, 5 to 7 inches, to match small bait
- Small bullets and feathers that track straight
- Blue and white, pink, purple, and abalone flash
Troll around 6 to 8 knots. Our Blackfin Bullet was designed for these fish and cuts through sargassum.
Live bait
Many Keys crews also chum and fish live pilchards over humps and wrecks, especially when tuna are holding on structure.
Tackle
Blackfin are usually 5 to 30 pounds. 20 to 30 lb class tackle with 30 to 50 lb fluorocarbon leaders is common.
Sharks
Sharks are common around Keys humps. Fight fish quickly and move to a new spot if sharks are taking hooked tuna.
For more, see how to catch blackfin tuna and the best lures for blackfin tuna.
