This page has information on tuna chunking in the Mid Atlantic region.
Chunking for tuna is extremely popular with boats fishing out of New Jersey.
Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Anglers fish from 20 fathoms out to the canyons and use a wide variety of chunking techniques.
Chunking is a method of fishing for tuna that can be very
productive. The boat is anchored or drifted and whole baits or bait sections
are drifted back on any number of leader types. Anglers use an array of
secrets to control the movement, depth and distance of baits in the spread.
The overwhelming local bait of choice is butterfish but other baits can be
used with success at times. Menhaden, spearing, herring, and squid are among
some of the baits that can be used.
Although chunking for tuna had crude beginnings, it has evolved into a
specialized fishery. For the most part, simple chunking rigs have been
replaced by circle hooks, flourocarbon leaders, and other hi-tech gear.
Local chunking areas change from season to season. A good plan is to check online fishing reports
and tackle shops for the latest news on fishing success.
Chunking Information
Deep Dropping Baits for Large Bluefin