Striped Bonito

Type	Tuna
Water	Saltwater
Size	2.5ft
Edibility	Good

Description

Oceans & Range: Indo-Pacific and Eastern Pacific, including the Pacific coast from Baja California south to Peru and Chile. Also found in the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific. More common in offshore tropical waters than in nearshore California fishing grounds.

Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–80°F. A warm tropical to subtropical species that follows baitfish schools in offshore waters. Typically found in water depths of 100–600 feet.

Size & Weight: Typically 2–8 lbs and 16–24 inches. Maximum approximately 15 lbs. Identifiable by the distinctive blue-black stripes on the back that distinguish it from Pacific Bonito (which has stripes only on the belly area).

Best Lures: Trolled feathers and cedar plugs at 6–8 knots produce strikes. Small metal jigs cast into surface schools are very effective. Chrome spoons and small stick baits work during surface feeds. Daisy chains of small feather jigs attract and hold fish.

Best Baits: Small live anchovies and sardines are the top baits. Cut squid produces consistent action. Small chunks of fresh mackerel are effective. Striped Bonito are also used as bait for larger pelagics in offshore Mexican and Central American waters.