Target species
Dogtooth Tuna Fishing in the Maldives
Named for their prominent, dog-like teeth, Dogtooth Tuna are powerful predators that inhabit the deeper reef slopes and drop-offs around Maldivian atolls. They're known for their incredible fighting ability and tendency to dive deep when hooked. These solitary hunters are prized catches for experienced anglers using jigging techniques.
Gymnosarda unicolor
- Size
- Up to 130 cm / 70 kg
- Habitat
- Deep reef slopes, drop-offs
- Best Season
- November - April
Named for their prominent, dog-like teeth, Dogtooth Tuna are powerful predators that inhabit the deeper reef slopes and drop-offs around Maldivian atolls. They're known for their incredible fighting ability and tendency to dive deep when hooked. These solitary hunters are prized catches for experienced anglers using jigging techniques.
Why the Maldives for Dogtooth Tuna
Dogtooth tuna inhabit the deeper reef slopes and drop-offs around Maldivian atolls — exactly the kind of structure found along Gaafu Atoll's outer reef, where Emperor's jigging trips run.
These solitary hunters are known for their incredible fighting ability and tendency to dive deep when hooked, making them a prized catch for experienced anglers using jigging techniques.
Season
Dogtooth Tuna activity is commonly reported around November - April, though this varies by atoll, tide and year — see our Maldives fishing seasons month-by-month guide for the full picture.
Fishing Techniques
Available Charters
Our own private charter, Emperor, home-based in Gaafu Atoll and arranged from other locations on request.
Private Full-Day Fishing Charter
Private Full-Day Fishing Charter is a private full-day fishing charter aboard "Emperor", a 32-foot fishing boat (Twin 200 HP outboard engines), departing from Maamendhoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Operated by Maldives Fishing and Holiday Pvt Ltd. From USD 1380 per boat per full day (source rate USD 1400).
From $1,380per boat
Private Half-Day Fishing Charter
Private Half-Day Fishing Charter is a private half-day fishing charter aboard "Emperor", a 32-foot fishing boat (Twin 200 HP outboard engines), departing from Maamendhoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Operated by Maldives Fishing and Holiday Pvt Ltd. From USD 980 per boat per half day (source rate USD 1000).
From $980per boat
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the best season for dogtooth tuna?
- Our own species records show November to April as a commonly reported window for dogtooth tuna, but conditions vary by atoll and year — see our Maldives fishing seasons guide for general, non-prescriptive guidance.
- What technique is used for dogtooth tuna?
- Jigging over deep reef slopes and drop-offs is the usual technique — see our Jigging page for how it works.