More on False Albacore..."Albies"
Posted by John Mantione on
One of the most prized gamefish of fall fishing in the Northeast is the false albacore. Their explosive hits and drag-screaming runs are unmatched by any other species in our waters. Anglers flock to the coast in pursuit of these fast and powerful fish.
False Albacore are expected to visit our island by mid September. We also anticipate that the first landings will be at Shinecock Inlet. then It's only a matter of time before these "little speedsters" are in full force around our island. For this type of fishing I recommend a lighter inshore rod from seven to eight feet in length capable of throwing 1/2oz to 1 1/2oz. When pairing a reel look for something capable of holding 300yds of 15lb or 20 lb braid. The use of a fluorocarbon leader can help you too. Something in the 20lb to 30lb range. "Albies" can be picky at times and disappearing fluorocarbon leader may give you an edge. The better abrasion properties of fluorocarbon can help if rocks are in the picture.
Why are False Albacore so Exciting to Catch?
False albacore, also known as little tunny, are known for their incredible speed and agility. When hooked, they put up a fierce fight, often making long runs and sudden changes in direction. This makes them a challenging and exciting catch for anglers of all skill levels.
What Lures are Best for False Albacore?
When targeting false albacore, it's important to use the right lures to entice these fish to strike. Some popular choices among anglers include the Joe Baggs epoxy jig, Deadly Dick Lures, Charlie Graves Lures and Shimano Coltsniper Lures. These lures are designed to mimic the small baitfish that false albacore feed on, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
TIP: The new tactical angler micro clips will make switching lures out a breeze.
Are False Albacore Good to Eat?
While false albacore are a thrilling sportfish to catch, they are not typically sought after for their culinary qualities. These fish are known to have dark, oily flesh that is not considered desirable for eating. Anglers often practice catch and release when targeting false albacore to preserve the population and continue the excitement of fishing for these incredible gamefish.