Popper Fishing for Bluefin Tuna – A How to Guide

Attention fellow fisherman! If you’re looking for a new and exciting challenge, catching bluefin tuna with a popper may be just what you need. It’s not an easy task, but with the right equipment and technique, you can catch these elusive creatures and feel the thrill of the fight. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about catching bluefin tuna with a top water popper.

Understanding Bluefin Tuna

To catch bluefin tuna with a popper, it’s important to understand their behavior first. Bluefin tuna are powerful swimmers that can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and can swim at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. On the west coast, the tuna don’t get quite as big, but they seem to be growing in recent years. A fish of 300 pounds or more isn’t that uncommon. Most of the fish you will be chasing off the coast of California will be in that fun 80 – 150 pound size. These fish are often found in deep waters, but they also come closer to shore during their feeding season, making them accessible to fishermen. Bluefin tuna are known to be aggressive feeders, so top water poppers can be an effective way of catching them. If you see breaking fish, grab that rod and get ready for a ride!

Equipment Needed

To catch bluefin tuna with a popper, you’ll need the right equipment. First, you’ll need a sturdy fishing rod and reel that can withstand the force of a bluefin tuna. A rod with a fast action and heavy power is recommended. Most popper fisherman prefer a longer rod in the 7’6″ to 9′ range in order to really get some distance on your cast. Of course, the longer the rod, the harder it will be to ultimately land that fish.

For a reel, most popper fisherman prefer spinning reels as they can get a tremendous amount of distance on their casts and really work their baits. A reel in the 8000 to 20000 size should do you well. There are many great manufacturers out there with fantastic reels with names like Shimano Stella, Van Staal, Daiwa Saltist, Makaira and Salina. These reels are built for big fish and put out drag ratings up to close to 100 pounds.

You’ll also need a strong fishing line, preferably a braided line with a breaking strength of at least 65 pounds. Most anglers headed out for big tuna prefer even 80-100lb test braided line. Color doesn’t matter too much on your braid as long as you are using a heavy leader. Either monofilament or fluorocarbon line is a must. Fishing big tuna, you are dealing with big teeth that easily fray through lighter lines. We prefer 80 – 100 pound fluorocarbon leader on our popping set ups.

For the popper, use a large top water bait that imitates a fleeing baitfish. The color of the popper can vary, but generally, a blue or green popper will work out great for you, but lately, clear colored poppers have been the ticket on the west coast. One of the top producing poppers has been the FishLab Scrum Popper in Clear. Through-wired and strong, these baits cast far and create a big commotion. The YoZuri Mag Popper, Halco Roosta Popper, Daiwa Saltiga and the Nomad Chug Norris are all great options as well.

How to Fish the Popper

First offl, look for breaking fish. If you see fish up on the surface, they are generally actively feeding. This is when you will most likely get bit. Of course, the occasional blind strike happens as well, but if you can find feeders, you are golden!

When using a popper, it’s important to create a popping sound that attracts the fish. To create the sound, cast the popper out and let it sit for a few seconds. Then, retrieve with a sharp twitching motion, creating a pop sound as the bait moves through the water. It’s important to have a consistent rhythm when working the popper. If the fish are feeding near the surface, you can see them approach the bait, making for an exciting fishing experience. This will rarely be a subtle approach, but usually a giant top water explosion that will really knock your deck boots off! Once the fish take the bait, hold on tight and get ready for a fight.

Catch and Release Practices when Popper Fishing

Bluefin tuna are a highly sought after game fish, but it’s important to practice responsible catch and release practices to protect their population. If you catch a bluefin tuna with a popper, handle the fish with care and release it as soon as possible. Avoid injuring the fish by using barbless hooks and landing nets if you don’t plan to harvest your fish. Remember to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and stay within your limits. There is no harm in keeping fish for yourself, friends and family, but killing a bunch of fish just because you caught them is never good. Take a few photos and let them grow.

Conclusion:

Catching bluefin tuna with a popper is an exhilarating experience that requires skill, patience, and the right equipment. With a better understanding of bluefin tuna behavior, the proper technique, and the right equipment, you can successfully catch these powerful fish. Remember to practice responsible catch and release practices and enjoy the experience of fishing these magnificent creatures. Happy fishing!

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See you on the water.