Specific fishing rods for tuna fishing
There are several types of fishing rod suitable for tuna fishing. Your choice will depend mainly on the type of fishing you want to do ( trolling, casting, jigging) and the specific characteristics of the fish you are after (size, weight).
The rod trolling
trolling The rod is designed to hold a lure at the right depth behind a moving boat. It is also designed to withstand the power of the tuna when it bites the hook. It must be strong and rigid enough to effectively control the catch. A length of between 1.80m and 2.40m is generally recommended.
The rod casting rod
The rod casting line is ideal for anglers who want to reach great distances with their lures. It needs to be light and powerful to make it easy to cast the lure while ensuring good control when retrieving the fish. A length of between 2.10m and 2.70m is preferred by many anglers. This type of rod is used for hunting tuna with lures such as popper-type surface lures.
The rod jig
The rod for jig fishing is characterised by its versatility and adaptability to different fishing situations. It needs to be as easy to handle as possible when animating the lure and absorb the shocks generated by tuna attacks. To achieve this, choose a rod between 1.80m and 2.40m in length. Shorter than the rod casting reel, it takes up less space and allows you to fish effectively close to the boat.
Reels for tuna fishing
Choosing the right reel is also crucial to successful tuna fishing. Tuna reels must have sufficient line capacity to cope with the powerful strokes of the fish and offer a regular spool to avoid tangles. After all, tuna is one of the fastest fish in the world!
Spinning reels
Particularly popular for fishing at trolling, the spinning reel offers excellent resistance and is very practical for controlling line tension. Its adjustable drag allows you to tackle tuna rushes effectively without the risk of the line snapping.
The spinning reel
More suited to casting or jigging, the spinning reel is versatile and easy to use. It must have a powerful and precise drag to counter the violent starts of the fish and face the fight in all serenity. It can also be used for longer casting distances.
Lines for tuna fishing
If you're hoping to catch a tuna, it's vital to use tuna accessories such as high-quality lines that can withstand the power and friability of the fish. Here are the different types of line you can use:
Nylon monofilament
Nylon is a tough, elastic material that performs well for tuna fishing. Its ability to absorb shocks makes nylon lines particularly popular for fighting powerful fish.
Visit braid
Nylon lines braid lines are designed to offer great sensitivity and increased resistance when fighting large fish. braid also glides better through the rings than nylon or fluorocarbon. This makes them very popular for lure fishing. On the other hand, they are more sensitive to abrasion and require special care to avoid line breakage.
Fluorocarbon
Renowned for its invisibility underwater, fluorocarbon is often used as a leader to fool wary tuna. Offering high abrasion resistance, it is also highly prized for making strong, resistant knots and its low elasticity.
Essential accessories for tuna fishing
To complete your tuna fishing equipment, here are a few tuna fishing accessories you should have to hand:
- Hooks: choose hooks suited to the size of tuna you're after, with an anti-corrosion treatment to withstand repeated attacks by fish.
- Lures: Artificial or natural, lures are essential for seducing tuna and provoking them to attack. Lures from trolling, poppers and jigs are particularly effective for this species.
- Gaffs or landing nets: these tools are essential for controlling and bringing on board the tuna you have caught.
- Fishing clothing: to protect yourself from the weather when you're out at sea, remember to pack suitable clothing (windbreakers, hats, UV t-shirts, sunglasses, gloves).
In short, choosing the right tuna fishing equipment will optimise your chances of success and ensure you have an unforgettable experience on the water. Don't hesitate to consult the opinions and recommendations of other anglers to refine your choice and benefit from sound advice.
