How Much Is a Tuna Fishing Boat?

How Much Is a Tuna Fishing Boat? It is widely said that “a sailor is only good as his ship” which is why sailors pay the most attention towards their ships. They always strive for the best vessels to take them to sea. The fishermen especially the wicked tuna fishermen usually own top-end boats and vessels to secure their catch of the day. By observing and researching a lot on tuna boats, we did wonder though; how much is a tuna fishing boat as it seems they can’t be cheap. Here’s what we discovered after thorough research….   

Types of Fishing Boats

There are many different types of fishing boats, from small aluminum jon boats to large cabin cruisers. Some boats are specifically designed for fishing, while others can be used for both fishing and other activities, such as cruising or water skiing.

Fishing boats come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some boats are better for trolling or casting lures, while others are more suited for bottom-fishing or live-baiting.

Choosing the right boat is important, since it can make the difference between a successful fishing trip and a wasted day on the water. With so many different types of boats available, it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

How Much Does a Tuna Boat Cost?

It is difficult to determine the exact prices of tuna boats purely due to the variations in its models. Still, if you are just starting your tuna journey, you can fish for tuna on a tuna boat costing as little as $20000. Tuna boats can cost anywhere from $20000 to $350000. The cost can also rise when you take the customization, gear, and electronics into account. You can also find some used tuna fishing boats for commercial purposes for as much as $500000.

In the world of commercial fishing, there are many different types of vessels that can be used to catch fish. There are small skiffs that are used for inshore fishing, and there are large factory ships that can venture out into the open ocean. However, one of the most popular types of fishing boats is the tuna boat. These boats are specifically designed for chasing down large schools of tuna. They typically have a large open deck area that is perfect for spreading out a net. They also have a powerful engine that can quickly get them to where the fish are swimming.

So, how much does a tuna boat cost? That depends on a number of different factors. The size of the boat is obviously important, as is the quality of the materials used in its construction. The engine and other electronics can also add significantly to the cost.

How Much Does a Wicked Tuna Boat Cost?

Considering the wicked tuna boats into account, these vessels can cost thousands of dollars even without making any customizations. The wicked tuna boats range in length from 35 – 48 feet. Many other ships are also customized exclusively for tuna fishing season. The most expensive tuna boat so far is the “Hot Tuna”, a 48ʹ Dixon Series 60 Detroit that costs $300000. The next one competing with the “Hot Tuna” is the “PinWheel” boat that costs $280000. The first one is captained by TJ Ott while the latter is helmed by Tyler McLaughlin. Check the following table for a broader idea about wicked tuna boats.

How Much is the Annual Running Cost of a Tuna Boat?

Let’s take a look at the running cost per day for tuna fishing at sea.

• The tuna boat can cost you as low as $20000. Let’s take this $20000 boat into the sea.
• It will require some customizations like the radar systems, GPS, and boat electronics that will cost around $5000.
• Tackle for trolling will cost you around $5000.
• You also need tackle for casting lures that will cost you around $5000.
• Some other expenses include fuel costs, fishing licenses, insurance, and docking.

We interviewed some of the expert tuna fishermen. Here’s what their response is about the expenses for tuna fishing and boating.

• Taking an average of 150 miles per trip, the fuel costs are $3.7 per gallon.
• 15% of the cost goes to the bait company.
• You need to use the harbor that will cost 5% to the city authorities for using it.
• 6% of the trip gross goes to the landing.

According to the fishermen, the cost to fill the tuna boat charter with fuel for a 2 to 3-day trip is around $8500 making it an expensive business.

How Much Do Tuna Fish Cost?

The tuna fish is priced by the pound, its sales happen at auction too where prices can soar. At the first Bluefin tuna auction of 2019, a 600 pound fish in japan was sold for a record-breaking $3 Million that breaks down to almost $5000 per pound. The Bluefin tuna is the only tuna fish type that grows so it’s going to cost you if you want to try it.

Bluefin supply is low at the seas so the prices are very high. Bluefin tuna are overfished and don’t breed in captivity. A 1000 pounds Bluefin tuna can easily cost you about $50000. 

How Much Does a Tuna Boat Owner Make per Year?

Tuna boat captains typically earn around half of the proceedings from a day’s catch. You can multiply a day’s catch to 365 and there’s the per annum earning of a tuna boat captain. The crew members on a tuna boat earn around $30000 per annum.

So, that’s pretty much sums up the situation regarding tuna boats and fishing. All your main inquiries like how much is a tuna fishing boat and what is the earning etc. are answered above giving you a great glimpse of the situation out there. Happy Tuna Fishing!