Tuna Types: Longtail Tuna Facts

Longtail Tuna Facts

Tuna are delicious fish, and many people have an avid interest in them – not only from a culinary perspective, but from a sporting one. These are very popular targets of sport fishermen, and many people also make a living off of them commercially. If you have ever wanted to know more about longtail tuna, this article is for you. Below are four longtail tuna facts that will definitely leave you knowing more about this creature of the sea.

Longtail Tuna Facts #1: What They Look Like

When you think of the word ‘tuna’, what do you picture? Do you picture a small, puny fish? Well, believe it or not, longtail tuna are a bit larger. It is not uncommon for these fish to grow up to 5 feet long, and can weigh up to 70 pounds. Some fish have been caught that are even larger.

These fish are quite slender and have a variety of colors. Generally, the top of the body is dark blue or black, and the lower body is a silver-white color. Their finlet are yellow and have gray edges, and their keel (large fin on the bottom) is a dark color that stands out from the color of the lower body. These also come with blue fins – which is why they are also known as Northern bluefin tuna.

Longtail Tuna Facts: #2: Where They Live

Tuna can be found all over the world, in every major ocean except for the Artic. Longtail tuna in particular are mostly found in the waters around Australia, specifically on the eastern and western coasts. They like to stay relatively close to the shore and are rarely caught in open water on the high seas. You can also find them around bait fish (smaller fish that are often used as bait and live in schools near the shore). Additionally, longtail tuna prefer waters that are 66-86 degrees Fahrenheit (or 20-30 degrees Celsius). The waters around Australia, therefore, are a perfect environment.

Longtail Tuna Facts #3: How They Live

It is a well-known fact that most fish are cold-blooded. Warm-blooded animals can control the temperature of their bodies, but cold-blooded creatures cannot – such as amphibians and reptiles. Longtail tuna, however, are not cold-blooded but warm-blooded – a trait that lets them live in cold habitats in the ocean. How is this done? There are organs on the longtail tuna’s body that warm up the blood flowing through the tuna’s veins. With this ability, the longtail can inhabit environments up to 36 degrees F warmer than normal.

Longtail Tuna Facts #4: How They Are Fished

Those who are interested in fishing for longtail tuna need to know that they are quite fast and can put up quite a struggle. Therefore, be prepared for a battle if you happen to hook a particularly large longtail tuna. Trolling small lures are effective, as are metal lures that are shiny and reflect light. You can also fly-cast for these fish while employing chum to attract their attention and draw them close.