pelagic

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Thunnus thynnus

Premier winter/early-spring pelagic off NC Outer Banks (Hatteras/Oregon Inlet). Charter-driven Nov-Apr fishery. NMFS-managed Highly Migratory Species; legitimate recreational target in NC waters. Distinct from yellowfin/bigeye/blackfin.

In our regions

North Carolina (Outer Banks + Cape Lookout)

Regulations

⚠️ BETA: best-effort current as of May 31, 2026. Confirm with the linked FWC / NOAA source before keeping a fish.

Showing 2 of 12 regulations for Louisiana

LA_GULF

Louisiana — State waters (0–3 nm) · LDWF

Permit requiredPermit required

Vessel limit: 1 total / vessel / day
Minimum: 27″ CFL (curved fork)

HMS Angling permit required. LA has an active winter BFT bycatch fishery during yellowfin trips.

FEDERAL

Federal Gulf (9–200 nm) — GMFMC

Permit requiredPermit required

Vessel limit: 1 total / vessel / day
Minimum: 27″ CFL (curved fork)

Gulf federal: HMS Angling permit required. 1 BFT 27"-<73"/vessel/day. Gulf trophy quota typically exhausted by mid-year.