The Best Gear for
San Diego Tuna Fishing

TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST RODS, REELS, AND TACKLE FOR THE 2023 TUNA SEASON

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San Diego Tuna Fishing: The Best Gear, AT THE BEST PRICE, for Catching the Big Ones

When it comes to fishing for tuna in San Diego, having the right gear is essential for success. With so many different brands and options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best equipment for the job. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the top brands and products for tuna fishing in San Diego, including rods, reels, fishing line, gaffs, trolling rigs, bait casters, jigs, and more. No sponsorship was asked or received for any of the recommendations within this article, but rather presented for your reading pleasure.

After your get gear, hop on a private six pack luxury yacht like the Patriot or one of our dozen other private or open party,  four  &  six  packs charters!

TUNA REELS

When it comes to tuna fishing, having the right reel is crucial. The reel is the link between you and the fish, and it needs to be able to handle the power and strength of a large tuna. In this article, we will be discussing the top 10 tuna fishing reels from some of the most reputable brands in the industry such as Avet, Shimano, Penn, and others. We will also be including detailed descriptions of each reel, directly from the manufacturers' websites, and ensuring that every description for every reel is completely unique. We will also be showing the prices of each reel, when possible. Let's start the list with a lightweight contender.

These reels are not the latest, greatest, or most flashy, but if you paste the name into a search box, you will find great deals on TRIED AND TRUE gear, new in the box. Even if you buy used, this equipment will perform as advertised. Just make your purchase carefully.  Try it before you buy it! I do not recommend any particular tackle shop, but a quick online search will yield results! I recommend rods and reels that have been around for a few years, that have been tested, and proven.

PENN Squall Line Up

The Penn Squall Level Wind series is my personal BANG FOR THE BUCK favorite tuna reel. It is good at literally everything and can hold its own against even the biggest tuna.. They come in various sizes, but my personal favorite is the 50 wide. I like having plenty of line, just in case.

A brand new single speed version of these reels can be had for under $200 bucks with the two speed versions a little more. The TWO SPEED version is definitely worth getting if you can afford it.

The Penn Squall series is a line of saltwater fishing reels that are well-suited for tuna fishing. The reels are designed with a strong and durable construction, making them capable of handling the rigors of fighting large tuna. They feature a lever drag system, which allows for precise adjustments to the amount of resistance when fighting a fish.

Additionally, the Squall series is built with corrosion-resistant materials, making it durable and able to withstand the harsh saltwater environment. They also have a variety of models for different fishing situations, such as the Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed, that allows to switch from a high speed retrieve to a low speed retrieve depending on the situation.

The Penn Squall series is available in several models, with different line capacities and maximum drag ratings, ranging from 15 to 50 lbs, making them suitable for different sizes of tuna. They are known for their power, durability, and smooth operation, making them a popular choice among tuna anglers.


Shimano Talica II 2-Speed Lever Drag Reel

The Shimano Talica II is a 2-speed lever drag reel that is specifically designed for tuna fishing. It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 6.2:1 and a maximum drag of 50 pounds. The reel is made with a cold-forged aluminum frame and spool and features a waterproof drag system and a 2-speed gear system for added versatility. Being able to switch down to "low gear" can make your day if your fighting a monster bluefin!  The Shimano Talica II is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $749.99.

The Shimano Talica II 2-Speed Lever Drag Reel is a high-performance fishing reel designed for saltwater fishing. It is a two-speed reel, meaning it can be switched between two different gear ratios, allowing for greater versatility in different fishing situations. The reel has a compact, lightweight design and is constructed from high-quality materials, making it suitable for heavy-duty fishing. The Talica II features a lever drag system that provides a smooth, powerful drag system and allows for easy adjustments to the drag pressure. It also has a waterproof drag system that helps to protect the reel from saltwater corrosion. The reel has a high line capacity and is suitable for fishing with braided or monofilament line. Overall, the Shimano Talica II 2-Speed Lever Drag Reel is a reliable and high-performance reel that is well-suited for saltwater fishing.

Penn International VSX 2-Speed Lever Drag

The Penn International VSX is a 2-speed lever drag reel that is has enough drag for big tuna fishing. It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 5.1:1 and a maximum drag of 50 pounds. The reel is made with a machined aluminum frame and spool and features a full metal body and side plate.

With its two speed gearing and heavy drag, you will be in good position to land bluefin safely, if you get into trouble you can always downshift to get some extra torque on the line. Put it in high gear when retrieving flat falls or iron. Good all around.

The Penn International VSX is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $1,199.99.

PENN International is a famous brand in fishing!

The first Penn International reel was introduced in the late 1930s, and since then, the series has undergone several updates and improvements. The original International reel was made of metal and was a conventional reel with a star drag. Over time, the reels have been updated with newer materials and designs, such as the introduction of the VSX reels which are built with full metal body and side plates, and a stainless steel gear train.

Throughout its history, the Penn International series of reels has been used by professional anglers and sportfishermen around the world. It has been used in many major saltwater fishing tournaments and has been proven to be a reliable and durable reel for catching large saltwater species.

You cant really go wrong with a Penn International, it will probably still be working for many many decades of fishing.

Shimano Talica TAC50II 2-Speed Lever Drag 

The Shimano Talica TAC50II is a 2-speed lever drag reel that is specifically designed for tuna fishing. It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 6.2:1 and a maximum drag of 50 pounds. The reel is made with a cold-forged aluminum frame and spool and features a waterproof drag system and a 2-speed gear system for added retrieval speed. This reel is a 50 wide so it hold enough line to get the job done! I would take this reel into battle with just about any tuna. The Shimano Talica TAC50II is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $849.99.


Shimano Talica TAC25II 2-Speed Lever Drag

The Shimano Talica TAC25II is a 2-speed lever drag reel that is specifically designed for tuna fishing. This reel is a great multi-purpose option for those that bottom fish, troll and kite fish. It is even a great casting reel with tons of powerful drag.  We paired it on a custom rod with 80lb braid. It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 6.2:1 and a maximum drag of 25 pounds. The reel is made with a cold-forged aluminum frame and spool and features a waterproof drag system and a 2-speed gear system for added versatility. The Shimano Talica TAC25II is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $649.99.


Penn International VSX Single Speed Lever Drag

The Penn International VSX Single Speed is a lever drag reel that has been around for a long time, in one form or the other. Weather you buy this years model or one that is 15 years old, if it has been well taken care of, it will simply last forever. This reel holds an ungodly amount of high test line ensuring that even MONSTER tuna do not escape it.. It has a maximum drag of 50 pounds and a lightweight design. The reel is made with a machined aluminum frame and spool and features a full metal body and side plates for added strength and durability. The Penn International VSX Single Speed is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $1,099.99.


Check out this informative video showing all of the best rigs to nail tuna limits!

How do I select the right tuna reel?

There are many different tuna fishing reels available on the market from reputable brands such as Avet, Shimano, Penn, and others. When choosing a reel, it is important to consider the retrieve ratio, maximum drag, and overall durability of the reel. We hope that this article has provided you with useful information and helped you to choose the perfect reel for your tuna fishing needs.

It is important to note that the best reel for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is recommend to do your own research and test the reels before purchasing to make sure it is the best fit for you.

The sweet results of picking the right rod and reel combo, the right line, and the right technique.

Bait Casters

When you pull up on a frothing school of bluefin tuna, sometimes you need to cast a popper or iron right on top of them, this is where the bait caster comes in! Bait casters help you to cast your line further and more accurately, while jigs help you to mimic the movement of live bait and attract tuna to your line.

Bait casters are specialized reels designed for long distance and accurate throws, and generally use lighter line than their heavy siblings that troll.

Here are some other top picks for bait casters.

Avet SXJ 5.3:1 Single Speed Lever Drag Casting Reel

The Avet SXJ is a small and excellent casting reel that is perfect for tuna fishing in the 20-50lb "FOOTBALL" class. If you need to cast, free line, or toss iron accurately, this is a good choice. Bringing a football tuna over the side with this reel means that the fight is real! If the tuna are bigger, shelf this and grab a bigger rod and reel. 

It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 5.3:1 and a maximum drag of 40 pounds. The reel is made with a machined aluminum frame and spool and a stainless steel gear train. It also features a lever drag control system and a dual anti-reverse system. The Avet SXJ is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $449.99

The Avet SJX reels are great little workhorses for tuna footballs 20-60lbs!


Avet MXJ 5.8:1 Single Speed Lever Drag Casting Reel

The Avet MXJ is a powerful and durable reel that is perfect for tuna fishing. It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 5.8:1 and a maximum drag of 50 pounds. The reel is made with a machined aluminum frame and spool and a stainless steel gear train. It also features a lever drag control system and a dual anti-reverse system for added strength and reliability. The Avet MXJ is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $499.99.


Avet SXJ 6/4 2-Speed Lever Drag Casting Reel

The Avet SXJ 6/4 is a 2-speed lever drag reel that is on the lighter side, and is meant for free line or casting with an a target weight of 20-60lb tuna. If you know your likely to see larger fish, shelf this and grab a 50 wide. But if foot ball tuna are the call for the day, you cant beat this reel. . It has a high-speed retrieve ratio of 6.0:1 and a maximum drag of 50 pounds. The reel is made with a machined aluminum frame and spool and a stainless steel gear train. It also features a lever drag control system and a dual anti-reverse system for added strength and reliability. The Avet SXJ 6/4 is available in a variety of colors and is priced at $499.99.

Daiwa Saltist Star Drag 

The Daiwa Saltist Star Drag is a VERSATILE middle weight option for tuna fishing. It has a maximum drag of 40 pounds and an overall weight of 33.5 ounces. The retrieve rate is 42 inches per crank and it has 4 stainless steel bearings.

 It is designed with a star drag system, which allows for precise adjustments to the amount of resistance when fighting a fish. It also features a high speed retrieve, making it easy to bring in large tuna quickly. 

Additionally, the Saltist Star Drag is built with corrosion-resistant materials, making it durable and able to withstand the harsh saltwater environment. It's available in several models, from 20 to 80 lbs of maximum drag, thus allowing to use it for different sizes of tuna. The reel is known for its smooth operation, power and durability. 

The price of the Daiwa Saltist Star Drag can vary depending on the specific model and where it is purchased. On average, the reel can range in price from around $200 to $400.

Okuma Cedros CJ-65S

The Okuma Cedros CJ-65S is a strong and durable option for tuna fishing. It has a maximum drag of 65 pounds and an overall weight of 44.5 ounces. The retrieve rate is 37 inches per crank and it has 2 stainless steel bearings. Spinning reels like this are excellent for no hassle, no tangle casting, and a bullet proof nature.

The reel features a 2-speed gear system that allows for a wider range of retrieve options and a more efficient fight. The reel also has a Dual anti-reverse system that ensures solid hook sets and reduces handle play. The Okuma Cedros CJ-65S also has a machined aluminum spool that allows for a greater casting distance and accuracy. Additionally, the reel has a corrosion-resistant graphite body and rotor, making it suitable for saltwater use.

The Okuma Cedros CJ-65S is a good baitcasting reel for targeting tuna, as it has the power and retrieve speed to handle these large fish. The reel is also equipped with a comfortable EVA handle knob that provides a secure grip. The reel's retail price range is around $450 to $500.

Cedros spinning reels are Okuma Fishing Tackle's dedicated saltwater line of spinning reels.  With aluminum frame construction, stainless steel bearings, solid aluminum bail arm and Okuma's CRC or Corrosion Resistant Coating process, Cedros spinning reels are up to the task of the toughest saltwater fishing environments.  

With Okuma's Dual Force Drag system with drag washers on both the top and the bottom of the spool, Cedros drags produce exceptional top end drag pressures and dissipate heat exceptionally well due to their larger surface area.  

With a large range of available sizes, Cedros spinning reels excel from inshore applications to large fish in blue water environments.


Accurate BX-400N - BX SERIES 

The Accurate BX-400N is a top-performing option for tuna fishing. It has a maximum drag of 40 pounds and an overall weight of 24 ounces. The retrieve rate is 37 inches per crank and it has 2 stainless steel bearings. 

The Accurate BX-400N is a high-performance saltwater fishing reel that is designed for heavy-duty fishing. It is part of the Accurate BX series of reels, of which any size is well suited for Tuna fishing out of San Diego!

The BX-400N is a two-speed reel that features a unique and powerful gear ratio of 4.2:1 and 2.1:1, this makes it suitable for different fishing situations and allows anglers to easily change between retrieving quickly or slowly. The reel also features a unique drag system that provides a smooth and consistent drag pressure, which is critical when fighting big fish. It has a larger spool and can hold a large amount of line, this is especially useful when fishing for large species such as Tuna or Marlin.

The BX-400N is constructed of high-quality materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum and stainless steel, making it extremely durable and able to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. The reel is also equipped with a sealed drag system that helps to protect the reel from saltwater corrosion.

The price of the Accurate BX-400N can vary, but it generally falls in the high-end range of fishing reels, between $700 and $800.

Overall, the Accurate BX-400N is a high-performance, heavy-duty fishing reel that is designed for saltwater fishing. The reel is known for its strength, durability, and smoothness, and is suitable for targeting large saltwater species such as tuna and marlin. Its unique drag system, gear ratio, and high-quality materials make it a reliable and powerful choice for anglers. However, it is a expensive option, and may not be the best choice for anglers with a limited budget.

Shimano Trinidad Series

The Trinidad line of fishing reels is a line of high-end reels produced by Shimano, specifically designed for big game fishing. These reels are known for their durability and smooth performance, and they come in several different models with varying features.

The Trinidad A is the flagship model of the Trinidad line, and it features a one-piece cold-forged aluminum frame and sideplate, which provides the strength and rigidity needed to handle large fish. It also has a waterproof drag system that uses carbon fiber and ceramic drag washers to provide a smooth and powerful drag. The Trinidad A has a high retrieve rate of 4.9:1 and can hold 600 yards of 80 lb. braid.

The Trinidad 20A is similar to the Trinidad A but it's designed for casting larger baits and lures. It has a retrieve rate of 4.6:1 and can hold 600 yards of 80 lb. braid. The Trinidad 14A is a smaller reel in the Trinidad line, designed for casting smaller baits and lures. It has a retrieve rate of 4.8:1 and can hold 500 yards of 80 lb. braid. The Trinidad 30A is the largest reel in the Trinidad line, designed for casting larger baits and lures. It has a retrieve rate of 4.4:1 and can hold 800 yards of 80 lb. braid.

The Trinidad line of reels feature a variety of specifications depending on the model but all of them have anti-rust bearings and are built to resist corrosion in saltwater environments. The pricing for these reels can vary depending on the model and the retailer, but they generally range from $450 to $800.

In general, the Trinidad line of reels are well-regarded among anglers for their smooth performance and durability. The reels are considered to be a solid choice for those who are looking for a high-end reel that can handle big game fishing. Some reviewers have also highlighted the reel's high retrieve rate, the strength of its drag system, and its resistance to corrosion. 

How to select a bait caster for Tuna.

When selecting a bait caster, it's important to consider the type of fishing you'll be doing. If you're fishing for larger tuna, you'll want to opt for a bait caster with a higher maximum drag and overall weight. If you're fishing in saltwater, make sure to choose a bait caster with stainless steel bearings to prevent rust and corrosion.

It's worth noting that the price can vary widely depending on the specific model you choose and where you purchase it. It's also possible to find some deals or discounts, so it's a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

It's also important to consider the retrieve rate when selecting a bait caster. The retrieve rate is measured in inches per crank, and it can make a big difference in how quickly you reel in your catch. A higher retrieve rate means you'll be able to reel in your fish faster, which can be especially important when fishing for larger tuna.

Many reels here can behad for a song, but If you absolutely must have to have brand spanking new reel no matter what, this vid is for you.

Tuna Rods

When it comes to choosing a rod and reel for tuna fishing in San Diego, it's important to consider the size of the average bluefin in these waters ranges between 90 and 250lbs. You'll want to make sure you have a rod and reel that can handle the weight and strength of these fish. Nothing will break your heart worse than losing because you were outgunned. Here are some recommendations below, although not cheap, will land a large bluefin.

One of the top brands for tuna fishing rods is Nomad. Nomad rods are known for their strength and durability, making them perfect for catching tuna. They offer a wide range of rod sizes and styles, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Some of the most popular Nomad rods for tuna fishing include the Nomad Inshore Tuna Rod, the Nomad Offshore Tuna Rod, and the Nomad Big Game Tuna Rod.

Some other top mentions go to:

CUSTOM RODS!

Special shout out to the boys over at M&M Rods. If you want to spend the money for a custom rod built specifically for you, call these guys.


Tuna Fishing Line

The type of fishing line you use can make a big difference when it comes to catching tuna. Tuna are incredibly strong fish with excellent eyesight, so you'll want to use a line that is strong enough to hold them while at the same time being light enough or transparent enough to get the bite in the first place. In my opinion, the best type of fishing line for tuna fishing is braided line. Braided line is made of multiple strands of thin, strong material that is braided together to make a thicker, stronger line. Some of the top braided lines for tuna fishing include PowerPro, SpiderWire, and Sufix.

Top picks for heavy duty tuna line include:

It's important to note that the best fishing line will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Factors such as the strength and abrasion resistance, sensitivity and low stretch, visibility and others should be taken into account when choosing the right line for your fishing trip.

Tuna Lures

To be successful at catching tuna, it's important to have the right lures in your tackle box. In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the best lures for tuna fishing and how to use them effectively. Here is a list of the best fishing lures for tuna!


Sunglasses, a Lucky Fishing Shirt, & a Sharp Knife


We hope that you enjoyed this article sharing with you my opinions on the best tuna fishing gear for 2023. 

The author did not accept or request any payment for any of the endorsements herein.