Tuna fishing in Guadeloupe with Babywane
Guadeloupe is a destination of choice for fishing. Yellowfin tuna, of Black tuna and some Striped bonito, offering ideal conditions and an abundance of these tunas. These species, although different in size and behavior, offer exciting challenges for sport fishermen.
Characteristics of yellowfin tuna
Yellowfin tuna, also known as "Yellowfin Tuna", is more present in Guadeloupe during the summer months, from July to October. This fish is recognizable by its black color on the back and silver on the belly, with yellow highlights. Its dorsal and ventral fins, bright yellow in color, are very long and crescent-shaped, almost joining for the largest specimens. In Guadeloupe, Yellowfin tuna can weigh between 30kg and 50kg and reach up to 1.60m in length.
This fish feeds mainly on small squid and small tuna, including young yellowfin tuna. It is one of the most powerful fish you can encounter in big game or sport fishing. The fight with a yellowfin tuna can be extremely intense, often requiring the brakes of reels up to 14kg to be tightened to succeed in bringing it up from the depths where it often settles at 150 meters. The feeling during the fight is incredibly muscular and intense, making yellowfin tuna a formidable opponent and a fisherman's trophy.
Characteristics of black tuna
Blackfin tuna, also a member of the tuna family, is very common in the waters of Guadeloupe. This fish is black on the back and silver on the belly, with copper highlights. Another variety of blackfin tuna has a smaller eye, no scales, and a dark blue back. Blackfin tuna are smaller than yellowfin tuna, generally weighing between 2kg and 5kg and can measure up to 60cm in length.
Black tuna feed on shrimp, small fish and small squid. Although smaller, Black tuna offers powerful and enjoyable fights, especially when fished with light rods of 20lbs to 30lbs. Blackfin tuna fishing can be done by jigging with lures of 80g to 150g depending on the current, or by slow trolling with octopus. Catching this fish is a rewarding experience for anglers of all levels.
Characteristics of bonito
The striped bonito is gray-black on the back with phosphorescent blue longitudinal stripes and silver on the belly with coppery reflections on the back. It is a magnificent fish, cut like a shell that can weigh up to 9kg and measure 90cm in length.
It feeds on small fish and squid. For the same size, and with yellowfin tuna, it is one of the most powerful fish in sport fishing.
It can be fished with a jig, although very wary, it is less biting with this technique, slow trolling with octopuses or dedicated lures. Large subjects, on 20lbs to 30lbs rods and 5000 or 6500 reels can take 200 m of braid in the first rush and keep you fighting for between 20 minutes and 50 minutes.
She doesn't give up until the last meters and the effort is intense!
Techniques for fishing tuna and bonito
Fishing for tuna in Guadeloupe requires the use of specific techniques adapted to the behaviors and habitats of these fish.
Drift fishing for yellowfin tuna : This technique involves letting the boat drift with the current while keeping the lines at varying depths. I use powerful cranked rods and 80lb reels, baited with live bait or dead fish. This method is particularly effective for attracting yellowfin tuna from the depths and providing intense and muscular fights.
Jigging for Black Tuna : jigging is an ideal technique for catching blackfin tuna or striped bonito. Using weighted lures (jigs) from 80g to 150g, we go down deep then come up jerkily to imitate a wounded fish. This technique is particularly effective and offers strong sensations during fights.
Trolling : used mainly for blackfin tuna and striped bonito, this method involves dragging lures or bait behind the moving boat. Light rods of 20lbs to 30lbs are used to maximize the pleasure of the fight.
Expert's advice
My advice for successful tuna fishing is to always remain attentive to the signals of the sea. Observe seabirds, as they are often an indicator of the presence of tuna on the surface. Be patient and perseverant, as tuna fishing can take time and endurance. Finally, don't forget to enjoy every moment at sea, as each outing is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and live unforgettable experiences.
HASWith these tips in mind, you are ready for a memorable fishing adventure in Guadeloupe.
Join Babywane to experience the joy and excitement of capturing these impressive fish in an idyllic setting.
Other fish species
Marlin
Thazard
Barracuda
Sea bream
Swordfish
