SKIPJACK TUNA, Ben, July 15, 2004 Crocker Reef
(Katsuwonus pelamis) OTHER NAMES: Oceanic Bonito, Arctic Bonito, Striped Tuna, Watermelon
RANGE: All Florida coasts, the Bahamas and the Caribbean.
HABITAT: The deep sea.
DESCRIPTION: Horizontal stripes on ower half of body distinguishes it from others of its clan.
SIZE: Common at 2-10 pounds; often exceeds 15 pounds. World record 45 pounds, 4 ounces; Florida record 31 pounds, 8 ounces.
FOOD VALUE: Dark flesh; good but not to most tastes.
GAME QUALITIES: A terrific light-tackle battler.
TACKLE AND BAITS: Any kind of casting tackle, small jigs, plugs and flies. If trolling, small feathers and spoons are best.
FISHING SYSTEMS: Drifting; Trolling. Return to July 2004 Page
Return to Turners Homepage
Updated 07/16/04