False Albacore: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a False Albacore?
The False Albacore — or “Albie” if you’re in the know — is the ultimate coastal speed freak. These small tuna look like they were built by NASA: torpedo-shaped, lightning-fast, and designed to shred bait balls in a blur of foam and fury. Found from New England to the Carolinas and beyond, they’re one of the most addictive fish to chase on light tackle or fly.
The first FishyAF False Albacore was landed by @zmoneymv — textbook blitz, spinning reel screaming, and one of the most satisfying fights in the salt. Albies don’t play.
Here’s your FishyAF guide to False Albacore — how to find them, fool them, and look good doing it. Click here to see what Albie chasers are wearing.
🐟 False Albacore Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Euthynnus alletteratus |
| Average Size | 5–15 lbs typical; 20+ lb rare |
| World Record | 36 lbs — Virginia (2006, IGFA) |
| Habitat | Coastal waters, rips, inlets, and offshore edges along warm currents |
| Edible? | Technically yes, but most release — strong taste, better photo than fillet |
❓ FAQs About False Albacore
Where can you catch False Albacore?
From Cape Cod through the Carolinas and into the Gulf. Look for blitzing bait schools near rips, inlets, and surf lines in late summer through fall.
How big do False Albacore get?
5–15 lbs typical, with the occasional 20+ lb brute in deep offshore runs. All muscle, no nonsense.
What is the world record False Albacore?
The IGFA record stands at 36 lbs from Virginia — a true mutant of the mackerel family.
Are False Albacore good to eat?
Not really. They’re oily and strong-flavored. Most anglers catch, photograph, and release — Albie love is about the fight, not the fillet.
How do you catch False Albacore?
Match the hatch. Cast small metal lures, epoxy jigs, or flies into surface feeds. Speed is key — Albies chase bait that looks terrified. Don’t pause; just burn.
What’s the best bait or lure for False Albacore?
Metal jigs, small spoons, or soft plastics (Albie Snax, Hogy Epoxy Jigs). Keep it small, shiny, and fast — accuracy and speed win.
What’s the difference between False Albacore and Bonito?
False Albies have wavy “worm lines” on their back and no vertical stripes. Bonito have straight, clean lines. Albies are tuna family; Bonito are more mackerel-like. Both rip line like jet engines.
😂 FishyAF False Albacore Joke
False Albacore — because sometimes the “False” ones give you the truest fight.
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🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
When the Albies are busting, there’s no time for sunburn. Rock our Switchback Hats and Offshore Hoodies. Fish hard, look FishyAF.