Blackfin tuna are a smaller tuna, weighing only approximately 30 lbs. as opposed to the nearly 300-lb. yellowfin tuna. Blackfin tuna are distinguished from others in their family by a black fin that runs down the back of the fish, and they also have yellow patches on the sides of their body. The blackfin tuna grounds run from the Eastern seaboard down to Brazil. Blackfin tuna can often be found near the surface of the waters near Georgia's shores or in the deeper waters off Georgia's coast near the Gulf Stream. Their preferred feeding times are at dusk or night, and these fish are known for their ability to fight back so precautions should be taken.
Near Savannah are the Savannah Banks, and these are a mix of both natural and man-made reefs. Blackfin tuna are often spotted and caught near these reefs. Many of these reefs can only be accessed by going nearly 50 miles from the shore, so boats are required. Chartered fishing companies, such as Amick's Deep Sea Fishing, can be hired to take fisherman on half- or full-day trips. If you are taking a private boat, you should keep up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's weather reports. The weather this far out at sea can change quickly and become dangerous. Other fish that may be caught in this area include red snapper, black seabass and grouper.
Amick's Deep Sea Fishing
6902 Sandnettles Drive
Savannah, GA 31410
912-897-6759
amicksdeepseafishing.com
St. Simons Island sits near the Gulf Stream, where warmer waters mix with the colder waters of the Atlantic. As this area heats up during the summer, blackfin tuna are known to start feeding, making it easier to find and catch these fish. Fish may be caught off of the island in the shallow, marshy waters or fisherman may hire charter boats to take them out directly into the Gulf Stream. Other fish in this area include kingfish, marlin, grouper, snapper and sailfish.
Tybee Island sits nearly 18 miles off the shore of Savannah, and the island is only accessible by boat. Fishing is allowed from many of the beaches, piers and rocks, but check the signs before beginning. There are a few beaches and surf areas where fishing is not allowed. The far ends of the island have rocks that reach way out into the water, where some fish, including blackfin tuna, are known to feed. The Tybee Fishing Pier and the Lazaretto Fishing Pier are popular spots for fisherman to set up and give the fisherman a little more room to deal with a fighting fish.
