Bluefin tuna are some of the largest and most popular targets for sportsfisherman.
A bluefin tuna caught off the coast of Nova Scotia still holds the weight record at 1,496 pounds. They are known among sportsfishermen as aggressive fighters, and unfortunately for the tuna, one of the tastiest meals to come from the ocean.
Be Prepared for a Fight
The giant bluefin tuna averages 500 pounds and can grow to more than 6 feet long. Strap yourself in to the seat before attempting to real in this fish. They can also swim at speeds more than 40 miles per hour, so when the hook sets, be prepared for a fight against an animal that is two-to-four times heavier than you are.
Protection Status
Canada is serious about the protection status of the giant bluefin tuna.
Because of the endangered status of the giant bluefin tuna, there is a restricted season for harvesting them. Both the Canadian (Nova Scotia) and American governments recognize and respect these restrictions. For the rest of the year there is a catch-and-release policy, which means you can get the fight without the benefit of 500 pounds of meat to go with it. The season for harvesting opens in late September and ends in the last part of October or first part of November.
Nova Scotia Charters
There is only one company based in Nova Scotia that specializes in the giant bluefin tuna charters.
You have the choice of using one of several private charter companies to fish for giant bluefin tuna or using the one that specializes in that popular fish. Giant Bluefin Tuna Charters is the company that sails out of Nova Scotia. The catch-and-release season opens in mid-August to the last week of September. If you are caught with a giant bluefin tuna outside of the catch-and-release and harvesting seasons, you can be fined and the charter-boat you are on can lose its license.
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