Yellowfin Tuna
OpenThunnus albacares
The Basics
Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) is regulated by the NC Division of Marine Fisheries for recreational anglers. Here's what you need to know in plain English: The minimum keepable size is 27" curved fork length total length. The daily bag limit is none (check federal regulations). The season is open year-round.
Size Limit
27" curved fork length
Minimum total length
Total length is measured from the tip of the snout to the tip of the compressed tail.
Bag Limit
None (check federal regulations)
Daily recreational harvest limit
Bag limits are per person unless noted as "per boat." Limits are aggregate — counted across all waters fished that day.
Season
Year-round
Open season for recreational harvest
Open year-round unless an emergency closure is issued.
Current Status
Open for harvest. Check for in-season emergency closures.
Special Notes
- •27" curved fork length minimum in federal waters.
- •No state bag limit — federal HMS rules govern the catch.
- •A federal HMS Angling permit is required for recreational harvest in federal waters.
- •Yellowfin are a Gulf Stream staple out of Oregon Inlet and Hatteras Inlet.