Bigeye tuna are often mistaken for yellowfin tuna

Bigeye tuna is one of two species known in Hawaii simply as ahi. The Bigeye can be mistaken for a yellowfin as they both have yellow fins, however the bigeye is typically smaller averaging about 40 pounds; the fins are smaller and more fin like than the actual yellowfin tuna, which has a longer fin. The Bigeye can be recognized by its plump body & its larger head, with its unusually large eyes, hence the name: Bigeye.

Adult bigeye tuna are the deepest swimmers of all tuna species, with a depth range of 150 to 250 fathoms. Smaller bigeye tuna ( about 20-30 pounds) may be encountered in shallower waters, including fish aggregation buoys.

Tuna is caught year round in Hawaii, with the Bigeye tuna running October-April, which is the off-season for other tuna species.

Caught in deeper, cooler water, the Bigeye tuna caught in Hawaii range from 20 to over 200 pounds, Bigeye tuna of good quality is firm, with a reddish-pinkish flesh color, and is the preferred species for the preparation of sashimi, due to its higher fat content. Ahi steaks are also good for grilling and it’s mild flavor works good with many different recipes.