Allison Tuna vs Yellowfin Tuna

by Pablo Koch-Schick March 11, 2025

If you’ve ever found yourself hooked on the thrill of offshore fishing, chances are you’ve tangled with a tuna or at least dreamed about it. Tuna species are some of the most prized catches for anglers worldwide, and for good reason. These fish are fast, powerful, and downright delicious. But when it comes to Allison tuna and yellowfin tuna, even seasoned fishermen might find themselves wondering - what’s the difference?

Both are celebrated for their speed, size, and fighting spirit, but there are subtle differences that set these two species apart. Whether you’re fishing in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Pacific Ocean or heading offshore in the Gulf near St. Petersburg, Florida, understanding these fish can help you reel in the right one. Let’s dive in and break down everything you need to know about Allison tuna vs yellowfin tuna.

How Can You Tell the Difference Between Allison Tuna and Yellowfin Tuna?

At first glance, Allison tuna and yellowfin tuna look almost identical and that’s where the confusion starts. Both have sleek, torpedo-shaped bodies, bright yellow fins, and metallic blue backs with silver bellies. But if you look a little closer, a few details set them apart.

Discover the other types of tuna that make for a great catch.

Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares)

Size: Typically grows up to 100 inches and can weigh over 400 pounds.

Fins: Known for their bright yellow second dorsal and anal fins, along with small finlets tipped in yellow.

Shape: More compact, with shorter dorsal fins and tails compared to Allison tuna.

Habitat: Found in tropical and subtropical waters, including the Gulf of Mexico near St. Petersburg, Florida.

School Behavior: Often caught in mixed schools with bigeye tuna, skipjack, and other tunas.

Allison Tuna (Pacific Long-Tailed Tuna)

Size: Typically larger than most yellowfin tuna, with more weight and total length.

But is the Allison tuna the largest ever caught?

Fins: Features longer dorsal fins and tails, earning the nickname Pacific long-tailed tuna.

Shape: Slightly leaner but more streamlined, with fins that make them stand out when swimming.

Habitat: Shares the same tropical and subtropical waters as yellowfin, often mingling in mixed schools.

Rarity: Considered a less common catch, making it an exciting find for anglers.

Both species are speed demons built for chasing baitfish like mackerel, squid, and anchovy, and they’re often found in the same waters. But if you’re offshore fishing near St. Petersburg, paying attention to fins and size can help you tell whether you’ve landed a yellowfin or its long-tailed cousin.

Why Are Yellowfin and Allison Tuna Popular Among Anglers and Chefs?

When it comes to sport fishing and seafood, both yellowfin tuna and Allison tuna are in high demand, but for slightly different reasons.

Yellowfin Tuna (The Crowd Favorite)

Fishing Appeal:

Yellowfin tuna are a popular target for anglers because of their speed and strength.
They can grow over 400 pounds, making them a serious challenge to catch.
Their bright yellow fins and aggressive behavior near the surface make them easy to spot and exciting to fight.

Culinary Value:

Often sold as ahi, a name shared with bigeye tuna.
Known for their meaty texture and rich flavor, perfect for raw fish dishes like sashimi and sushi.
Their firm meat also grills, sears, and blackens beautifully - ideal for seafood lovers.

Allison Tuna (The Hidden Gem)

Fishing Appeal:

Allison tuna are often larger yellowfin, with longer dorsal fins that make them a striking catch.
They put up an even harder fight than yellowfin, which can make landing one an unforgettable experience.

Culinary Value:

Like yellowfin, Allison tuna are prized for their meaty texture and flavor.
They’re also a great choice for raw fish dishes, though they’re slightly rarer on menus due to their lower availability.

What Is It Like to Catch Yellowfin and Allison Tuna?

Whether you’re after a yellowfin tuna or an Allison tuna, be prepared for a workout. These fish are built for speed and power, making them a dream target for anglers who enjoy a good challenge. But while they share similarities, the fishing experience can feel a little different depending on which one is on your line.

Yellowfin Tuna (Fast and Furious)

Behavior:

Yellowfin are surface feeders, often spotted in mixed schools with bigeye tuna, skipjack, and mackerel.
They’re known for ferocious strikes and quick dives into the water column as soon as they’re hooked.

Fishing Techniques:

Use topwater lures, live bait like squid and anchovy, or flashy jigs to draw them in.
Their speed means you’ll need a strong tackle and a heavy-duty line to keep them on the hook.

The Fight:

Expect sudden bursts of energy, with dives that will test your gear and endurance.
Keep your line tight as they approach the boat to avoid losing them.

Allison Tuna (The Heavyweight Champion)

Behavior:

Like yellowfin, Allison tuna often feed near the surface, but their larger size and longer fins give them more power during the fight.
They’re known to dive deeper than yellowfin, making the battle even tougher.

Fishing Techniques:

Similar methods work for Allison tuna - live bait and lures are effective, but you may need heavier tackle to handle their weight.
Be ready for longer fights as they resist being reeled in.

The Fight:

Bigger size means more resistance and a greater challenge, especially when trying to keep them near the surface.
These predators can leave even experienced fishermen sweating by the time they’re in the boat.

Are Yellowfin and Allison Tuna Sustainable to Catch?

Fishing for yellowfin tuna and Allison tuna isn’t just exciting, it also comes with a responsibility to protect their populations. Both species are widely targeted by anglers and commercial fisheries, but how sustainable is it to catch them? Let’s break it down:

Yellowfin Tuna: Stable but Under Pressure

Yellowfin tuna are listed as Least Concern by the International Game Fish Association, meaning their populations are currently stable. However, they still face threats in some regions.

Fishing Risks: Heavy targeting in areas like the western Pacific, where longline fisheries and purse seines are common.
Bycatch Concerns: Often found in mixed schools with bigeye tuna and skipjack, leading to accidental catches.

Sustainability Measures:

Catch limits and size restrictions in areas like Southern California and the Gulf of Mexico.
Encouragement of catch-and-release for smaller fish to protect young populations.

Allison Tuna: A Rarer Catch with Added Risks

Allison tuna, sometimes called Pacific long-tailed tuna, are often grouped with yellowfin but face additional vulnerabilities due to their size and rarity.

Fishing Pressure: Their larger size makes them even more attractive to longline fisheries, increasing their risk of overfishing.
Population Concerns: Allison tuna aren’t as abundant as yellowfin, so losing even a few can affect their numbers.

Protection Efforts:

Same rules and limits as yellowfin tuna usually apply.
Anglers are encouraged to use circle hooks to reduce injuries when releasing fish.

How Can You Help?

Whether you’re targeting yellowfin or hoping to hook a prized Allison tuna, small actions make a big impact:

Know the Rules – Check local regulations before heading out in areas like St. Petersburg, Florida.
Catch and Release – Letting smaller fish go helps maintain healthy populations.
Gear Up Right – Use strong tackle to avoid hook injuries and improve survival rates for released tuna.

Ready to Reel in Your Next Big Catch?

When it comes to offshore fishing, both yellowfin tuna and Allison tuna deliver an unforgettable experience. From their speed and power to their meaty texture and culinary appeal, it’s no wonder these tuna species are favorites among anglers and chefs alike.

If you’re looking for a fast and furious fighter, the yellowfin tuna is your go-to target. Their bright yellow fins, ferocious strikes, and reputation as a top sportfish make them a popular choice in tropical and subtropical waters.

For those wanting a bigger challenge, the Allison tuna might be your next trophy. These larger yellowfin with longer dorsal fins put up even heavier fights, testing your tackle and endurance as they dive deep into the water column.

Why St. Petersburg is the Place to Be

Located along the Gulf Coast, St. Petersburg, Florida, is a hotspot for both yellowfin and Allison tuna. With easy access to offshore fishing grounds, experienced captains, and year-round fishing opportunities, it’s the perfect place to test your skills and land your next big catch.

Book Your Tuna Fishing Adventure Today!

Whether you’re after a yellowfin for its speed or an Allison tuna for its size, there’s no better place to chase them than right here in St. Petersburg, Florida. Reel Coquina Fishing Charters has everything you need - from expert guides to the best gear to help you hook the fish of a lifetime.

Call us today at 404-438-8732, email us at pablokochschick@gmail.com, or book your trip here to start planning your next offshore adventure!