Florida Tuna Species, Fun Facts, and Recipe Tips

This blog post was developed using original content by Laila Cohen, intern UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County, and Holly Abeels, FL Sea Grant Extension Agent, and edited with assistance from Microsoft Copilot.

If you’re an offshore angler or a seafood enthusiast, tuna fishing in Florida is an experience like no other. These powerful, high-speed fish are prized for sport and flavor, making them a top target in the Atlantic and Gulf waters.

Florida Tuna Species You Should Know

Florida waters host several tuna species, including:

Bluefin Tuna
Bigeye Tuna
Albacore Tuna
Atlantic Bonito
Little Tunny (Bonito)
Blackfin Tuna

You’ll find tuna in deep offshore waters, often near temperature breaks, floating debris, or feeding seabirds. While tuna are found worldwide, some species face overfishing concerns, so following regulations is essential. For current rules, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Fun Facts About Tuna

Tuna are among the fastest fish in Florida, reaching speeds of 40+ mph.
Some species are warm-blooded, helping them regulate body temperature.
The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh 2,000 pounds.
Celebrate World Tuna Day on May 2nd.
Tuna is versatile: enjoy it raw, seared, grilled, or baked.

Tuna Recipe & Alternatives

Lemon Herb Tuna Steaks

Following along and watch us make this recipe on YouTube.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 large lemon, zested and juiced
Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds tuna steaks, cut into 2-inch cubes

How to Make:

Combine parsley, rosemary, oil, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl, stirring to combine.
Add tuna cubes to bowl, tossing to coat.
Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate at least 3 hours and up to 6 hours.
Preheat a large grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the pan with oil.
Place the cubes on a pan and sear each side until the tuna is opaque and just cooked through.
Sprinkle lemon juice over the fish just before serving.

Looking for alternatives? Try swordfish, tripletail, kingfish, or pompano for a similar taste.

Learn More:

Reference

Microsoft Copilot. (2025). High-speed catch: Florida’s Tunas original draft. Edited content provided to Holly A. Abeels. Microsoft.