Tuna Fishing in Australia & New Zealand: Seasons, Spots & Best Lures

2026-08-19 | GD Angling Tackle

 Tuna are among the most powerful game fish on the planet, and for anglers in Australia and New Zealand they are a year-round obsession. From metre-long southern bluefin off the South Australian coast to surface-crashing longtail tuna in the tropical north, few fish test tackle — and lures — harder. For retailers and brand owners, the takeaway is simple: your customers want lures that actually get bit. Here is everything you need to know about tuna fishing across both countries, and how to choose lures that hold up to it.

Tuna Species You'll Target

Australia and New Zealand are home to several prized tuna species, each demanding a slightly different approach and lure:

• Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT) — The heavyweight, prized for both sport and sashimi markets. Port Lincoln in South Australia is the "tuna capital" of the country.
• Yellowfin Tuna (YFT) — Widespread and hard-fighting. A favourite for trolling and jigging from New South Wales to Western Australia and across New Zealand's North Island.
• Longtail Tuna — A shallow-water brawler common off Queensland and northern Australia, often caught on casting lures close to shore.
• Albacore & Skipjack Tuna — Fast, abundant and ideal for light-tackle fun and commercial operators alike.

Where to Fish for Tuna

Australia

• Port Lincoln, SA — the heart of southern bluefin fishing, with world-class seasons each winter.
• Port Stephens & Sydney, NSW — reliable yellowfin action offshore.
• Exmouth & Esperance, WA — standout yellowfin and southern bluefin grounds.
• Gold Coast & Fraser Island, QLD — longtail and yellowfin within reach of the coast.

New Zealand

• Bay of Plenty — famous for yellowfin and skipjack, with strong inshore runs.
• West Coast & Tauranga — productive trolling and jigging grounds.
• East Cape / Gisborne — deepwater yellowfin and bigeye for the adventurous.

Best Seasons for Tuna

Timing is everything. Southern bluefin peak through the cooler months (roughly April–September), while yellowfin fishing heats up in summer through autumn across much of the two countries. Longtail tuna run strongly in late summer and autumn in Queensland. Always check local regulations — tuna are highly migratory, and bag limits and seasonal closures vary by region.

Proven Techniques and Lures

1. Trolling

The most productive method for covering ground. Skirted lures and diving minnows pulled at 6–9 knots account for a huge share of yellowfin and southern bluefin. A well-balanced trolling lure that swims true at speed is non-negotiable.

2. Jigging

Speed jigging with heavy metal jigs has exploded in popularity. Yellowfin respond aggressively to a fast, erratic jig action over deep structure and current lines.

3. Casting

When tuna are busting on the surface, a popper or stickbait cast into the school can produce explosive strikes.

Choosing Lures That Catch More Tuna

For wholesalers and retailers, quality separates the lures that sell — and sell again — from the ones that sit on the shelf. Look for:

• Strong, sharp hooks that won't straighten under a screaming tuna.
• Realistic, durable finishes that survive dozens of strikes and toothy encounters.
• Consistent swimming action across a range of trolling speeds.
• Rigged or unrigged options to suit both casual anglers and seasoned operators.

At GD Angling Tackle, we manufacture a full range of tuna lures — trolling lures, diving minnows, speed jigs, poppers and stickbaits — built for the Australian and New Zealand tuna fishery. We supply wholesalers, brands and OEM buyers worldwide with custom colours, packaging and rigging to match your market.

Tuna Season and Location Quick Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year for tuna fishing in Australia?

Southern bluefin peak in winter (April–September), while yellowfin are most active in summer and autumn. Longtail tuna run strongly in late summer.

What lures work best for yellowfin tuna?

Skirted trolling lures, diving minnows and speed jigs are the most proven yellowfin lures. Surface poppers and stickbaits excel when tuna are feeding on top.

Where is southern bluefin tuna caught in Australia?

Port Lincoln in South Australia is the best-known southern bluefin destination, followed by Portland (Victoria) and Tasmania.

Can you jig for tuna in New Zealand?

Yes. Speed jigging for yellowfin and kingfish is extremely popular around the North Island, especially the Bay of Plenty.

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