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Caught a Little Tunny Offshore in Destin
Little Tunny Offshore in Destin, FL
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The Little Tunny belongs to the order Perciformes and family Scombridae. It typically measures between 24 and 48 inches in length, with a weight range from 5 to 15 lbs. Habitat: onshore, nearshore, offshore. - Known also as Bonita, False Albacore, or Little Tuna. - Considered one of the smaller variants of tuna. - Defense mechanism includes schooling and migratory behavior. - Usually head south during Winter or Fall.
Fishing Charter by Captain Bernie Lefebvre in August
Meet your Captain Bernie Lefebvre
- Nothing beats a day of fishing action!
Summary
Captain Bernie Lefebvre of Windwalker II Charters on Monday June delivered an outstanding offshore fishing charter in Destin's productive Gulf waters. This 5-hour morning trip targeted multiple species using trolling, jigging, and light tackle techniques. The clear conditions and warm June waters brought consistent action with Little Tunny, King Mackerel, Red Snapper, and Spanish Mackerel. Starting at 6am, we worked various depths and structures to put anglers on fish throughout the trip. The variety of techniques ensures something for every skill level, from beginners to seasoned offshore anglers. Destin's reputation as a premier Gulf Coast fishing destination shines through on trips like this, where the combination of skilled guidance and productive waters creates memorable fishing experiences.
Fishing Charter with Captain Bernie Lefebvre – Rates & Booking
Captain Bernie Lefebvre of Windwalker II Charters on Monday June offers comprehensive 5-hour morning fishing charters departing at 6am from Destin Harbor. The trip includes all fishing gear, tackle, and bait with experienced crew guidance throughout the charter. Rates vary by season and group size, with options for private charters and shared trips available. All licenses and safety equipment are provided, making this an ideal choice for both experienced anglers and families new to offshore fishing. Contact Windwalker II Charters directly for current availability and seasonal pricing.
Highlights of Windwalker II Charters 5 Hour Trip (AM)
This charter targets the productive offshore waters where the Gulf's warm currents bring together baitfish and predators. The variety of techniques used—trolling for pelagics, jigging over structure, and light tackle fishing—ensures consistent action throughout the 5-hour trip. June conditions in Destin typically offer excellent visibility and calm seas, perfect for spotting surface activity and working different depths.
The experienced crew knows the local waters and seasonal patterns, positioning anglers over productive reefs, wrecks, and drop-offs where species like Little Tunny, King Mackerel, and Red Snapper congregate. The early morning departure takes advantage of prime feeding times when fish are most active.
Local Species Insights: Little Tunny
Little Tunny are among the most exciting targets in Destin's offshore waters, known for their explosive strikes and powerful runs. These smaller tuna relatives school heavily during summer months, creating opportunities for multiple hookups when located. In June, they're typically found in 60-120 feet of water around structure and temperature breaks, feeding aggressively on small baitfish and squid. Their speed and stamina make them a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts, often providing 10-15 minute fights on appropriate gear.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
The Windwalker II is equipped for offshore fishing with modern electronics, safety equipment, and comfortable seating for up to 6 anglers. Departure is promptly at 6am from Destin Harbor, returning around 11am with your catch cleaned and bagged. Bring sunscreen, hat, and drinks—everything else is provided including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. The crew handles all rigging and fish cleaning, allowing you to focus on the fishing experience. Weather conditions are monitored closely with trip adjustments made for safety and comfort.
Fishing in Destin, FL: Little Tunny
Little Tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus), also known as False Albacore or Bonita, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Scombridae. This smaller tuna variant typically measures 24-48 inches and weighs 5-15 pounds. In Destin waters this June, these powerful fish provided explosive surface action and challenging fights for our charter guests.
Little Tunny Overview
Little Tunny are among the most exciting pelagic species in the Gulf of Mexico, prized for their speed, stamina, and aggressive feeding behavior. They're smaller than their bluefin and yellowfin cousins but make up for size with pure energy and fighting ability. Anglers target them for sport rather than table fare, as their dark, oily meat is better suited for bait than dinner.
Little Tunny Habitat and Distribution
These fish inhabit onshore, nearshore, and offshore waters throughout the Gulf Coast, with Destin serving as a prime location during summer months. They prefer water temperatures between 68-78°F and are commonly found around temperature breaks, current edges, and areas with abundant baitfish like sardines and anchovies.
Little Tunny Size and Weight
Most Little Tunny caught in Destin waters range from 24-36 inches and weigh 5-12 pounds, though larger specimens reaching 48 inches and 15 pounds are possible. The fish we landed on this charter averaged 23 inches, typical for June fishing in the area.
Little Tunny Diet and Behavior
Little Tunny feed primarily on small schooling fish, squid, and crustaceans. They're aggressive predators that hunt in schools, often creating surface commotion as they chase baitfish. Peak feeding occurs during dawn and dusk, making early morning charters particularly productive for targeting these fish.
Little Tunny Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in offshore waters during spring and early summer when water temperatures reach optimal levels. During this period, they form large aggregations that provide excellent fishing opportunities for charter boats working the deeper waters off Destin.
Little Tunny Fishing Techniques
Trolling with small spoons, cedar plugs, and feathers is highly effective, as is casting jigs and poppers to surface-feeding schools. Light tackle spinning gear in the 15-20 pound class provides the best sport. In June around Destin, anglers find success working the 60-120 foot depths where temperature breaks concentrate baitfish and predators.
Little Tunny Is It Good to Eat?
While edible, Little Tunny has dark, strongly flavored meat with high oil content that many find too strong for table fare. The flesh is better suited as bait for larger gamefish like marlin and sharks. Some anglers enjoy it smoked or prepared as sashimi when extremely fresh.
Little Tunny Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Little Tunny?
A: Small spoons, cedar plugs, and live sardines work best. They also respond well to jigs and poppers when feeding on the surface.
Q: Where can I find Little Tunny near Destin?
A: Look for them in 60-120 feet of water around temperature breaks, current edges, and areas with diving birds indicating baitfish activity.
Q: Is Little Tunny good to eat?
A: The meat is edible but very dark and oily. Most anglers release them or use them as bait for larger gamefish.
Q: When is the best time to catch Little Tunny?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during summer months provide the best action, with June through August being peak season in Destin waters.
