Capt. Mike from Salty Cape and Hogy Lures loads up his 28' Contender and steams South of MV in anticipation of fishing some of the warmer water pushing into the area. With fish holding in deeper water and feeding on sand eels, the name of the game was jigging for yellowfin and bluefin tuna.

The area South of MV (Martha's Vineyard) is a renowned and highly sought-after destination for tuna fishing. With notable spots like "The Claw" and "The Dump," this region offers exceptional opportunities for targeting both yellowfin and bluefin tuna. Its unique combination of underwater plateaus and swift currents creates the perfect habitat for tuna populations, attracting them in large numbers. The warm waters of the Gulf Stream, coupled with the proximity to the continental shelf, contribute to the abundance of baitfish and seasonal tuna migrations. Whether targeting bluefin or yellowfin, anglers can expect a thrilling and rewarding fishing experience in the waters South of MV.

Maneuvering The Fleet

When tuna are locked on tight schools of bait, proper boat etiquette is just as important as lure choice. Complete your drift, then idle out and around the fleet to set up again. This keeps the bite organized, avoids crowding, and keeps tempers cool in a packed fleet.

Fast Jigging Technique

A high-speed retrieve with an erratic twitch covers the full water column and triggers aggressive strikes. On this trip, fast jigging put the most yellowfin and bluefin on deck.

 Slow-Twitch Style Jigging

When fish hold tight to the bottom, a slow-twitch approach with sand eel–imitating soft baits like the Hogy Harness Jig is deadly. This method keeps your bait in the strike zone longer, tempting tuna that are “grubbing” for sand eels.