Catching Southern Blue Fin Tuna in South Australia can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here's a guide to help you prepare for your fishing adventure:

1. Know the Season: The best time to catch Southern Blue Fin Tuna in South Australia is generally from early summer to winter (December to August). During this period, the tuna migrate closer to the coast in search of food, making them more accessible to anglers.

2. Choose the Right Gear: When targeting Southern Blue Fin Tuna, it's important to use the correct fishing equipment for the size of the tuna you are targeting. This includes a strong and sturdy rod and reel, heavy monofilament or braided line (around 50-100lb test), and high-quality terminal tackle such as swivels, hooks, and leaders that can withstand the power and speed of these large fish.

3. Find a Charter or Guide: If you're new to tuna fishing or unfamiliar with the South Australian waters, consider hiring a local charter or guide. They can provide valuable expertise, local knowledge, and access to prime fishing spots, increasing your chances of success.

4. Locate Tuna Hot spots: Southern Blue Fin Tuna are known to frequent certain areas along the South Australian coastline. Look for signs of tuna activity such as birds diving, dolphins, baitfish jumping, or surface disturbances. Additionally, offshore seamounts, reefs, and underwater structures are often productive areas to target these fish.

5. Use Effective Techniques: Popular methods for catching Southern Blue Fin Tuna include trolling with lures, casting and retrieving metals, poppers or stick baits, dead baits such as cubing pilchards and live baiting with small fish such as red bait, pilchards, saury or slimy mackerel. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best in the given conditions.

6. Observe Regulations: Before heading out, familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, as well as any seasonal closures or restricted areas. It's important to fish responsibly and sustainably to help conserve the tuna population for future generations.

7. Be Prepared for the Fight: Southern Blue Fin Tuna are powerful and tenacious fighters, known for their long runs and acrobatic leaps. Once hooked, be prepared for an intense battle, and make sure to have a harness and fighting belt to help distribute the strain and protect your back during the fight.

8. Practice Proper Handling: If you are fortunate enough to land a Southern Blue Fin Tuna, it's essential to handle the fish with care and respect. Follow best practices for catch-and-release to ensure the tuna has the best chance of survival after being released. It is important that if you decide to keep a tuna that you kill spike the tuna to put it to sleep and make sure you have more than enough ice to be able to create an ice slurry to help keep these fish in the best eating condition possible.

Remember, catching Southern Blue Fin Tuna requires patience, skill, and a bit of luck. Always prioritise safety and conservation, and enjoy the thrill of pursuing one of the ocean's most prized game fish. If you need assistance with any spread set ups, speeds, lures, rods and reels we are here to help you with all your tuna fishing needs. Good luck and tight lines!