Albacore illustration
Species

Albacore

Thunnus alalunga
Also known as longfin tuna
Tier 3Eating8/10medium tackleNSWVICSAWATAS
9 waypoints60–100 cm (max 140 cm) typical

Overview: about albacore

Pelagic tuna with long pectoral fins, found in temperate offshore waters around southern Australia, especially off NSW, VIC and TAS. Targeted by gamefishers trolling skirted lures or feathers on the continental shelf, often in cooler months. Smaller than yellowfin or bluefin but fast and dogged on light tackle.

Biology: Albacore size, diet & habitat

Habitat
Offshore, Pelagic
Typical size
60–100 cm (max 140 cm)
Weight
5–15 kg (max 40 kg)
Depth range
0–600 m
Diet
pilchards, squid, small pelagic baitfish
Most active
diurnal
Global range
Cosmopolitan in temperate and subtropical waters

How to target: Albacore angling strategies

Generally fished with medium tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.

  • trolling small skirted lures and Christmas-tree daisy chains at 6-8 knots
  • cubing pilchards on a slow drift over current lines
  • casting metals into surface boil-ups when fish ball bait

Best season: when to catch albacore in Australia

NSW
Mar-Jun (east coast albie run)
VIC
Mar-May (west and east continental shelf)
WA
Dec-Apr (south-west)
TAS
Feb-May (east coast)

Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions, so check recent reports before a trip.

Recent community catches: anglers who caught albacore

No albacore catches logged yet. Log one and you'll be recognised here.

Where to catch: albacore fishing spots in Australia

Victoria4
Tasmania3
New South Wales1
Western Australia1

More information: albacore references & sources

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