Tag: Bigeye tuna

Ahi Tuna Fish Cooking, Nutrition, and Delicious Recipes

Ahi Tuna Fish Cooking, Nutrition, and Delicious Recipes

Learn about Ahi Tuna nutrition, cooking tips and mouthwatering recipes in our ultimate guide.

Ahi tuna fish also known as yellowfin tuna, is a favorite among seafood lovers for its rich flavor, tender texture, and incredible versatility. It can be grilled to perfection, tossed into a fresh salad, or preparing a poke bowl at home, ahi tuna always delivers. Plus it is a nutritional powerhouse packed with lean protein and heart healthy omega 3s. Did you know that ahi tuna can be marinated in as little as 15 minutes for maximum flavor? Let us guide you into everything you need to know about this incredible fish. From health benefits to the best recipes and preparation tips, you wont be disappointed.


What Is Ahi Tuna Fish?

yellowfin ahi tuna
Ahi Tuna Fish

Ahi tuna refers to two species of tuna yellowfin (Thunnus albacares) and bigeye (Thunnus obesus). These fish are commonly found in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world. Ahi tuna is highly prized for its firm texture, mild flavor, and versatility in cooking. Its popularity stems not only from its taste but also from its nutritional value, making it a staple for seafood lovers and health conscious eaters alike.

Difference Between Ahi Tuna (Yellowfin) and Other Types of Tuna (e.g., Bluefin)

Ahi tuna (yellowfin) is leaner and has a milder flavor compared to the rich, buttery taste of bluefin tuna. While yellowfin tuna is more abundant and widely used in everyday dishes, bluefin is considered a luxury item, often reserved for high end sushi and sashimi. Yellowfin’s bright red flesh lightens when cooked, where as bluefin’s meat is darker and fattier. Additionally yellowfin is generally more sustainable, as unfortunately bluefin tuna has been heavily overfished and is classified as a species at risk.

Is Mahi Mahi Fishy

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Yellowfin Tuna Ahi Fishing Guide & Yellowfin Tuna Fishing


Ahi Tuna Nutrition Benefits and Key Facts

Ahi tuna fish is packed with high quality protein, providing around 24 grams per 3 ounce serving. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, making ahi tuna an excellent choice for athletes or anyone looking to build and maintain lean muscle mass. With only about 110 calories per 3 ounce serving, ahi tuna is a fantastic low-calorie option for those on a lean diet. Its high protein content keeps you full, while the low calorie count helps support weight management and fat loss goals.

Ahi tuna is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, which supports energy production and nerve health, and vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function. It also contains selenium and potassium, key for metabolic and heart health.

Ahi tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering triglyceride levels, and promoting overall cardiovascular function. Regular consumption of omega-3s can also help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Both yellowfin and yellowtail tuna are prized for their culinary qualities, but they have different flavors and textures.

  • Yellowfin Tuna has a firm, meaty texture and a rich, strong flavor. It is often used in sushi and sashimi, where its deep red flesh is highly valued. Yellowfin is also popular for grilling, searing, and making poke. The high fat content in the belly meat, known as “otoro,” is particularly prized for its buttery texture and intense flavor.
  • Yellowtail Tuna has a milder flavor and a softer, more delicate texture compared to yellowfin. It is commonly used in Japanese cuisine particularly for sashimi and sushi. Yellowtail is also excellent when grilled or broiled, as its fat content helps keep the flesh moist and flavorful. The flesh is lighter in color, ranging from pale pink to white, and is often marinated in soy sauce or other seasonings to enhance its flavor.

Ahi Tuna Fish How to Cook

Ahi Tuna on the Grill

To achieve the perfect crust on grilled or seared ahi tuna, pat the tuna steaks dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, and sesame seeds before searing. Preheat your hotplate or pan to high heat with a bit of oil, and sear the tuna for about 1-2 minutes on each side…just enough to form a golden brown crust while keeping the center rare. Make sure your tuna is sushi grade if you plan to serve it rare or medium rare, and let it rest for a minute before slicing for that perfect presentation.

Ahi Tuna Poke

Start by sourcing the freshest sushi grade ahi tuna you can find, and dice it into small, even cubes for the perfect poke texture. Mix the tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and a bit of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick, letting it marinate for at least 15 minutes. Assemble your poke bowl by layering rice, avocado, cucumber, and seaweed salad, then top it off with your marinated ahi and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Ahi Tuna Marinade

Marinate ahi tuna for no more than 15 to 30 minutes. Its delicate texture absorbs flavors quickly so a shorter marination time is all you need. Over marinating can overpower the tuna’s natural taste or even start to “cook” the fish if the marinade is acidic. Keep it short and simple to let the tuna be the star.

Classic Soy Sauce and Sesame Marinade for Asian Inspired Flavors

A soy sauce and sesame marinade is a classic pairing that enhances the natural umami of ahi tuna. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and a hint of ginger for a rich, savory taste. Sprinkle in sesame seeds for added texture and nutty notes. This marinade works perfectly for seared or grilled tuna, giving it a bold Asian-inspired flavor profile.

Citrus Based Marinades for a Zesty Bright Taste

Citrus marinades bring a refreshing tang to ahi tuna. Use a mix of fresh lemon, lime, or orange juice with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of chili flakes for a vibrant kick. The acidity from the citrus tenderizes the fish while keeping its flavor light and zesty. This marinade is ideal for grilling or even as a base for a tropical-inspired poke bowl.

Ahi Tuna Salad

Ahi tuna adds a burst of flavor and protein to any salad. Pair seared tuna slices with mixed greens, orange segments, and avocado for a refreshing citrus twist. Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds for crunch and drizzle with a light sesame or vinaigrette dressing. You can also create a Mediterranean style salad with grilled tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, topped with a zesty lemon olive oil dressing.

Grilled or seared ahi tuna is the perfect centerpiece for a balanced, nutrient packed meal. Layer it over quinoa or brown rice with roasted veggies for a filling yet healthy bowl. You can also serve seared ahi alongside a side of steamed asparagus or grilled zucchini for a low-carb dinner option. Its rich flavor and versatility make it easy to create meals that are both satisfying and good for you.

How to Buy Tuna

Look for tuna with vibrant, deep red flesh and a clean ocean like scent. Avoid any fish with dull color or a sour odor. If buying online choose reputable suppliers that specialize in sushi grade seafood and guarantee overnight shipping. Always ask about the tuna’s harvest date for maximum freshness.

Choose Responsibly Sourced Tuna is Crucial

Sourcing responsibly caught tuna helps protect marine ecosystems and reduces overfishing, research brands and retailers that prioritize sustainable fishing. Look for labels like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or certifications from sustainable seafood guides.

Unsustainable practices harm vulnerable tuna populations and bycatch species. By choosing sustainable options you are supporting healthier oceans for future generations.

How to Store Tuna Fish

Keep tuna in the coldest part of your fridge tightly wrapped and use it within 1-2 days. For longer storage freeze it in vacuum sealed bags to lock in freshness. When freezing be sure to label the date to ensure you consume it within three months for the best quality. Thaw frozen tuna in the fridge overnight for a safe even process.


Ahi tuna is more than just a delicious seafood option it is a nutrient rich, versatile ingredient that can star in any meal. So if you are savoring a poke bowl, grilling it with a citrus marinade, or searing it to perfection, ahi tuna is sure to impress. Remember to source it responsibly and try experimenting with new recipes to make the most of its incredible flavor. Ready to create your next masterpiece? Grab some ahi tuna and let your culinary creativity shine.

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Yellowfin Tuna Ahi Fishing Guide & Yellowfin Tuna Fishing

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Bigeye Tuna Fishing Guide

Bigeye Tuna Fishing Guide

Master bigeye tuna fishing with expert tips. Also try out tasty dish recommendations like bigeye tuna sushi and grilled bigeye tuna. Get ready for a perfect day on the water and in the kitchen.

bigeye tuna
bigeye tuna

Bigeye tuna, also known as Thunnus obesus, looks similar to the bluefin tuna but this species is slightly smaller. Its pectoral fin is about the same length as that of a yellowfin tuna. The first giveaway of a bigeye tuna that is its large pupil, which is twice times larger than the two species. This type of tuna tends to have a higher concentration of cholesterol compared to other tuna. They are often used to make sushi and sashimi in Japanese restaurants.

Bigeye Tuna Info

Bigeye Tuna Scientific Name – Thunnus obesus
Bigeye Tuna Local Name – Ahi
Bigeye Tuna Size – 2 to 5 feet
Bigeye Tuna Mercury – Low
Bigeye Tuna Price – Medium to High

Bigeye are reported to live up to 12 years and reach a maximum length of about 5’5 feet, and a maximum weight in excess of 400 pounds. The current all tackle world record is 392 pounds.

BigEye Tuna vs Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin tuna and Bigeye Tuna are very similar and often get mixed up, especially if you catch one in the 100 pound range. Both have metallic blue/black back with a bright gold yellow side bands.  One of the easiest ways to separate them is via the tail fin. The characteristics yellowfin tails are yellow/golden, while bigeye tails are darker in color, being purplish/black. In addition bigeye’s second dorsal and anal fin never grows as long as those of the yellowfin do.

Bigeye spend a majority of their day at depths greater than 250 feet, often diving as deep as 1,500 to 1,600 feet in search of forage. This is in contrast to the yellowfin tuna, which spends over 75 percent of its time less than 250 feet from the surface.

When it comes to taste and texture, bigeye has a rich, meaty flavor with a higher fat content. This makes it better for sushi and sashimi. Yellowfin has a lighter, milder flavor and a firmer texture, making it more suited for grilling and searing. For cooking bigeye is versatile working well both raw and cooked. Yellowfin’s leaner meat is best when cooked being grilled, seared, or used in poke bowls.


Bigeye Tuna Fishing Tips

Are you ready to reel in the bigeye? Bigeye tuna fishing can be a thrilling experience for experienced anglers or beginners. These powerful fish are found in deep waters, offering a tough fight for those daring to take them on.

Bigeye Tuna Habitat

Bigeye tuna can be found in warm temperate waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Schools of bigeye tuna tend to be found deep during the day whereas schools of bluefin, yellowfin, and other tuna species are known to swim more toward at the surface.

Bigeye has a habit of hunting for baitfish at high flyers or canyons so you should take your boat to these places to have a better chance of catching them. The best time to catch them is around the twilight or shortly after the dark. You will also get good result when hunting them just before dawn. When hunting in the dim condition, dark color baits will work better.

When looking for bigeye, you must look out for signs like birds and porpoises as they can tell you where the bait fish are. If you spot feeding birds or porpoises, chances are the bigeye will also be nearby. Pilot whales and bigeye are often seen feeding together on the same school of squid below the ocean surface. Therefore, if you notice a pilot whale, it could be that the bigeye is within a proximity range.

Tuna Fishing Tips

Spreader bars technique can be used to attract the tuna to the top of the water during the day time. You can use the spreader bar technique along with green and yellow shell squids lures. A combination of jigs that weigh 180 – 250 gm will also help to lure the fish to the top water. Bigeye has good eyesight and using thin fluorocarbon fishing line can prevent them from seeing the hook. There are some hooks that are painted red in color to camouflage the blood of bleeding bait fish.

When trolling for bigeye tuna, you should maintain a speed of 6 – 8 knots along the 100 fathom line. On the day you go out fishing, the water temperature should be warm around 70 degrees (21 deg C) . The best time to go fishing for Bigeye tuna is May through October in the mid Atlantic sea. Bigeyes are tougher so they require professional fishing skills. A fishing charter that is longer than 25 feet will work the best.

The bite is unmistakable and unforgettable. The water erupts with bomb like explosion, you may need a new pair of trousers! Unlike other tuna species that come up underneath the bait and snatch it, bigeye tuna leave a huge hole in the ocean when they explode on the bait. They often travel in small packs and multiple hook-ups are common, resulting in two or three rods doubling over, leaving anglers with their mouths open and their hands full.

Spreader Bar Fishing Items

Bigeye Tuna Bait

The diet of the bigeye tuna includes squid, crustaceans, mullet, sardines, and small mackerels. Different types of baits can be used in bigeye tuna fishing including rigged mullet, sea star, rigged squid, ballyhoo with lender, and braid bigeye rocket. To hook the lure, you can use a 11/0 hook. Often, more than one tuna will end up at the hook of your fishing rods as they are used to travel in small schools. Fishing methods include trolling deep with squid, mullet, other small baits, and artificial lures. You can also live bait fish in deep waters with similar baits.

Always keep an eye out for whales, which are often found in close proximity to bigeye tuna schools. Anglers believe that bigeye and the whales feed on the same squid down deep below and this is why they are often seen together.

Bigeye Tuna Lures

As mentioned above, the Spreader bars technique will give the ideal chance to drag several lures enticing bigeye tuna. One standout lure for this fish is Braid Big Eye Rocket Lures.

Braid Big Eye Rocket

Braid Big Eye Rocket lures are a proven producer worldwide. The Braid Big Eye Rocket swims with a natural squid-like appearance, leaving a thin bubble trail that draws fish right to the lure. Great bait for flat line or center line trolling. A bigeye tuna killer for sure, this lure has become an absolute must for serious fishermen looking to capitalize on trophy yellowfin, bigeye, and even the prized wahoo!

The 9″ is the most popular size for most situations and is the go to size for most fishing folk. The demand for a slightly longer, heavier version for rougher waters and to mimic larger baits resulted in the senior braid big eye rocket 11″ version.

Bigeye Tuna Fishing FAQ

What are the best fishing techniques for catching bigeye tuna?

Bigeye tuna are often caught using trolling techniques with lures or bait, deep dropping, and chunking. Pay attention to water temperature and current patterns, as bigeye tuna prefer specific conditions.

What bait are most effective for bigeye tuna?

Bigeye tuna are attracted to a variety of bait, including squid, flying fish, and smaller fish like mackerel or sardines. Using fresh bait is key to enticing these elusive fish.

What gear is recommended for targeting bigeye tuna?

For bigeye tuna, it is essential to use heavy duty fishing gear capable of handling large fish. This includes robust rods and reels, strong fishing line (typically between 50-130 lb test), and sturdy hooks and leaders to withstand the fight.

What depths are bigeye tuna typically found at?

Bigeye tuna are known to inhabit deep waters, often ranging from 150 to 500 meters deep. However, they may come closer to the surface during feeding times, especially at night.

What are the best times of day to catch bigeye tuna?

Bigeye tuna are most active during low light conditions, such as dawn, dusk, and nighttime. Anglers often have success targeting them during these periods when they are actively feeding.

What regions are bigeye tuna most abundant?

Bigeye tuna are found in both tropical and temperate waters worldwide. However, they are often abundant in areas with underwater structures like seamounts, ridges, and drop-offs, as these provide ideal hunting grounds.


Bigeye Tuna Dish to Try

Once you have caught your bigeye tuna, turn that fresh catch into a mouthwatering meal. From sushi to grilled dishes, bigeye tuna offers versatility and flavor that is hard to beat. Lets explore the best recipes to make the most of your catch.

Tuna Health Benefits

High in Omega-3s great for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Protein Packed Tuna is a great lean protein choice.
Low in Calories a healthy option for those watching their weight.
Vitamins & Minerals nutritional benefits like Vitamin D, B12, and selenium.


Bigeye Tuna Sushi Recipe

For a delicious bigeye tuna sushi recipe, you will need just a few key ingredients. Of course you will need some fresh bigeye tuna. You will also need sushi rice, nori (seaweed sheets), and a bit of wasabi.

To make perfect sushi, start by preparing the sushi rice. When it is cooked and cooled, season it with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. The next step is to slice your bigeye tuna into thin, even slices for sashimi. Use a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts. Lay a sheet of nori on your bamboo mat, spread a thin layer of rice, and top with the tuna slices. Roll it up tightly and slice into bite sized pieces.

For presentation, arrange the sushi neatly on a plate, garnishing with wasabi and pickled ginger for that pro look.

  • Bigeye Tuna Sushi Ingredients: Fresh bigeye tuna, sushi rice, nori, wasabi

Grilled Bluefin Tuna Recipe

One of the best ways to eat Bigeye Tuna is to grill it. For mouthwatering grilled bluefin tuna recipe, you will need fresh tuna steaks, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and your favorite herbs.

Start by brushing the tuna with olive oil and seasoning it with minced garlic, lemon juice, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for about 500°F (260°C). Sear the steaks for 2–3 minutes on each side to get perfect grill marks while keeping the center tender.

Serve your grilled tuna with a light, fresh salad or a side of fluffy rice for a balanced meal.

For extra flavor try marinating the tuna in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for about 30 minutes before grilling. It adds a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the rich tuna.

  • Grilled Bluefin Tuna Ingredients: Tuna steaks, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs

Bigeye Tuna Poke Bowl


Creating a delicious bigeye tuna poke bowl at home is both simple and refreshing. Start with diced bigeye tuna flesh. Marinate it in a mix of soy sauce and sesame oil for added flavor.

To build a poke bowl, layer your choice of base. Examples include sushi rice or mixed greens. Top it with the marinated tuna. Add a variety of fresh vegetables such as cucumber, radish, and edamame for crunch and color. For customization, get creative with toppings. Creamy avocado, crispy seaweed, and tangy pickled ginger all make excellent additions. Finish it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced scallions to elevate your poke bowl to the next level.

Enjoy this vibrant dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

  • Bigeye Tuna Poke Bowl Ingredients: Diced tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and vegetables

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on How To Catch Tuna.

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Guide for Catching Spanish Mackerel from the Shore

Guide for Catching Spanish Mackerel from the Shore

This post has been updated – For for details please view Spanish Mackerel Fishing Guide

Spanish Mackerel is a type of fish that stays near to the coast in the Atlantic Ocean. They are frequently found between New York and Gulf of Mexico but will migrate to the southern coast of Florida in winter. Spanish Mackerel are fast swimmers and often travel together in large schools near the water surface. When feeding time, they will drive the baitfish to the surface which attracts the diving birds. So, you can’t get wrong with following the diving birds when you want to catch Spanish Mackerel.

Where to Find Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel is a migrating fish that will move from places to places depending on the weather. They usually appear in water with temperature around 70 degree. You can reference the temperature table at the NOAA website to learn about the water temperature of different US coastal waters at different dates. The changes of the water temperature is usually determined by the weather pattern so you will also want to check out the local fishing reports. You can get news on the local fishing reports in the forums and other websites.

The best time to catch Spanish Mackerel in North/South Carolina, and Georgia is from May to October. The Spanish Mackerel fishing season for Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, and St. Augustine in Florida starts from April to October. The fishing season for Naples and Stuart Beach in Florida extends from March to November. Beginning your fishing day at sunrise can give you more success because they are more likely to be in the shallow water around this time.

How to Find Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel is usually found swimming near the shore around 5 – 20 feet deep. If you don’t have a boat, you will have to go to a spot where you can target them in the deeper water. You can target on Spanish Mackerels from the beach, jetties and piers. Live baits work particularly well when you are fishing from a pier. You should get familiar with the rules of the pier before fishing there.

The pier may have rules on the number of rods you can bring, alcohol, and whether you need to get any license to fish at the beach. Jetties are built deeper into the water which means you don’t need to cast far. For this reason, you can use lighter baits like little glass minnow, feather jigs, and hair jig. Spanish Mackerels can also often be found along the actual coastlines, for example, the Pensacola Bay in Florida.

Targeting Spanish Mackerel When Fishing

Spanish Mackerel is a big fish but its favorite food is the small baitfish so you need to prepare small baits. Besides, you will also want to choose a bait that has similar color with the baitfish. You can use live baits such as mullets, cut squid, and live/dead shrimp for catching Spanish. To attract Spanish, you will have to retrieve the lure fast as they like to chase after the target at a high speed. Getting a high gear ratio tackle is a must for faster retrieval. If you can retrieve the lure fast, you will be able to make another cast back to the school before it moves to another spot. Conventional tackle works best if you are fishing from the piers.

To improve your chances of catching a mackerel, you can use a longer fly fishing rod. Longer rod like 9 feet rod allows you to make a longer cast. Heavy metal lure is useful for catching mackerels as it allows you to cast your line far and faster. Spanish mackerels can swim quite fast and that is why you should use a metal lure. The lure will be able to cast far allowing you to reach schools easily from your spot. Metal lure is more resistant to the teeth of Spanish Mackerel and can last for a long time. Casting spoons, and Gotcha plugs are some of the artificial baits that can help you get passed the sandbar.

Choosing the Leaders for Spanish Mackerel

Choosing the right leader line can make a lot of difference. You can use 30 – 50 pound monofilament for the leader. The leader should preferably be long up to 5 foot so that you can cut and retie several times. The line will become more and more frayed as you catch more fish so it is important to check the line for damage from time to time.

Braided line is not recommended as it can easily get noticed and bitten by the sharp teeth of Spanish. You also want to make sure that the leader is not too noticeable as it will make the Spanish avoid your bait. You will want to avoid using a flashy swivel for the leader as the fish is likely to strike it. It is recommended to use a small swivel with muted color such as matte black.