Small Tsunami shads - BLUE. 3" size - MOTOR them as fast as you can reel. Remeber the bait fish is fleeing for it's life.
Small Yo-zuri Hydrometals jigs - change them to a stouter single hook.
Maria jigs - forget the name exactly - clear plastic over some foiled pattern - not many places carry them - sell out fast!
Try going down to thinner/lighter poundage Fluoro leader as well.
Hooking up & landing the fish are two different issues. Get them on first THEN worry about boating it.
If you decide to route of surf rod - be sure it is a blended graphite or better fiberglas - leave the high modulus at home.
Tuna make all other species seem like wussies fighting. Big adenaline rush - BIG fun! Good luck, Van!