Thunnus alalunga
How to identify a Albacore Tuna
Albacore Tuna are found in offshore bluewater; temperature breaks, weedlines, structure. Use these features as a starting point and compare with a full identification guide before relying on any identification.

EnvironmentSaltwater
SeasonLate Spring–Fall in many regions; varies by current/temperature
Habitat and range
Offshore bluewater; temperature breaks, weedlines, structure
Where to catch Albacore Tuna
- California coast (CA)
- Oregon/Washington offshore
- Bay of Biscay (FR/ES)
Albacore Tuna by state
State season calendars that list Albacore Tuna — each shows the months it is in season and the official licence source:
- California — seasons, best months and licence info
- Oregon — seasons, best months and licence info
- Washington — seasons, best months and licence info
Baits and lures
Trolled lures · feathers · live bait · jigs · chunking for tuna
Related species
Often caught in the same waters or confused with Albacore Tuna:
- Bigeye Tuna — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Blackfin Tuna — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Bluefin Tuna — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Longtail Tuna — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Skipjack Tuna — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Southern Bluefin Tuna — identification & profile (Saltwater)
Monthly bite brief
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Do not rely on a photo alone for legal or food-safety decisions. Location, season, life stage and local regulations matter. Confirm any identification that affects possession limits or consumption with the responsible wildlife agency.
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