Night-time Jigging for Bluefin Tuna: Mastering the Dark Waters
Night-time jigging has rapidly gained traction among anglers targeting Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT) in New Zealand waters. Traditionally, trolling lures were the go-to method, but recent seasons have proven the effectiveness of jigging, especially during the quiet hours when tuna feed near the surface. This method of fishing has grown in popularity, combining the thrill of the catch with the challenge of deep-sea fishing under the stars. Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to the sport, night-time jigging for bluefin tuna provides an unforgettable experience.
Why Jig at Night?
During the day, tuna tend to stay deeper in the water column, but as the sun sets, baitfish rise, and bluefin tuna follow, feeding actively through the night. This is prime time for jigging, as tuna come up high and linger, making it potentially more productive than daytime trolling. The water is also calmer at night, and the cover of darkness adds an element of mystery and challenge to the fishing experience.
Best Gear for Night-time Jigging
Success in night-time jigging hinges on the right gear. Opt for a high-quality jigging rod like the Ocean’s Legacy Vengeance—renowned for its superior jig actions and incredible strength, crucial when targeting these powerful fish. Another recommendation is the Ocean’s Legacy Elementus Deep Jigging rod—its slower action and 6’1” length offer a more relaxed style of working the jig with a more parabolic bend. Both rods are capable of handling the intense runs of a hooked bluefin.
We emphasise the importance of using slow-pitch style jigs like the Long Contact, Hybrid Contact, and Deep Contact series. These jigs flutter down slowly, mimicking the natural movement of baitfish, making them irresistible to predatory tuna. Tuna often feed between 30-100m at night, and these jigs are designed to reach and entice them effectively. Pair these with high-end overhead reels and PE6/PE8 braided lines. A strong fluorocarbon leader of 130+lb and heavy-duty assist hooks like the Ocean’s Legacy Lancet series ensure you’re equipped to handle the powerful strikes of bluefin tuna.
Basic Bluefin Tuna Jigging Setup
Rods:
Ocean’s Legacy Vengeance B521H 5’2″ PE4-8
Ocean’s Legacy Elementus Deep B611H++ 6’1″ PE6+
Reel:
A high-end overhead reel with 300+m of PE6/PE8 line capacity
Braid:
High-quality PE6 & PE8 (100lb or close)
Leader:
Fluorocarbon leader or mono leader 150+lb
Jigs:
Ocean’s Legacy Long Contact 210g, 270g
Ocean’s Legacy Hybrid Contact 200g, 260g
Ocean’s Legacy Deep Contact 300g, 400g
Hooks:
Ocean’s Legacy Lancet Heavy Jigging Assist Hooks 9/0 & 11/0
Ocean’s Legacy Stinger Twin Assist Hooks 4/0 & 5/0
Jig Actions
When it comes to jigging for bluefin tuna, the action of your jig plays a crucial role. Bluefin respond best to a slow-pitch or a slow mechanical jigging technique. The slow-pitch allows the jig to flutter down in the water column, mimicking an injured baitfish—a movement that tuna find irresistible. Meanwhile, “slow” mechanical jigging involves a series of pulls and pauses, imitating a fleeing baitfish. Each technique has its advantages, and the key is to vary your jig actions until you find what the tuna are responding to that night. Mastering jigging techniques is crucial. The aim is to mimic the erratic movement of distressed prey, triggering the tuna’s predatory instincts. Employ a mix of fast, aggressive jerks and slower, more deliberate pulls, making sure to let the jig fall after each pull. This variability in jigging action can make all the difference, as it imitates the behaviour of wounded fish, which are easy targets for predatory bluefin.
Where to Go
New Zealand’s waters are home to some of the best bluefin tuna hotspots. Waihau Bay is a popular location for launching the boat, synonymous with bluefin tuna fishing, thanks to its consistent action during the season. The Sea Valley and the 1000-2000m contours off the cape and Lottin Point are very popular spots. The waters off East Cape and Gisborne present excellent opportunities, where large schools of bluefin are often spotted. These areas are not only productive but also provide stunning backdrops, making the experience even more memorable. Later in the season as tuna move up North, Aldie Knoll, Coromandel Peninsula, and the back of Great Barrier Island—offering diverse terrain and rich waters—are perfect for nighttime jigging too.
The waters around Fiordland, the West Coast, and the Hokitika Trench are particularly known for their bluefin populations. These areas provide deepwater environments where tuna tend to hunt at night. Consulting with local charter operators or monitoring fishing reports can also help you identify hotspots. Keep in mind that conditions can change rapidly, so flexibility and local knowledge are essential to your success.
Tips for Success
- Timing: Bluefin tuna are most active at night, particularly in the early hours before dawn. Plan your trip accordingly to maximise your chances.
- Preparation: Ensure your gear is in top condition. Night-time fishing can be demanding, so double-check your knots, line strength, and lure setup before heading out.
- Patience and Persistence: Bluefin tuna are powerful fish that require patience. It may take time to hook one, but the reward is worth the wait.
Conclusion
Night-time jigging for bluefin tuna in New Zealand is not just about the catch; it’s about the thrill of the chase under a starry sky, the camaraderie with fellow anglers, and the satisfaction of mastering a challenging fishing technique. With the right gear, knowledge of the best spots, and a bit of persistence, you can experience the adrenaline rush of hooking into one of the ocean’s most formidable predators.
This is definitely on the bucket list! I am really hoping to get amongst it next year! Thank you for all the tips!