As the summer sun warms the waters off the Devon coast, we're thrilled to bring you the first line-caught British tuna of the season. This isn’t just any catch—it’s a testament to the sustainable practices and conservation efforts that are shaping the future of UK fishing.
Following a consultation with the scientific community, the recreational fishing community, and the commercial fishing sector, the first co-designed Catch And Release Tagging (CHART) programme was piloted in English waters in 2021. The UK Bluefin Tuna Association is leading the charge, ensuring every tagged tuna helps our scientific research and conservation efforts, while the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) sets the rules with strict fishing quotas and licensing to keep us all in check and prevent overfishing.
This year, 13 UK boats have been awarded a licence to fish tuna (an increase from 10 last year), and they're all based in Cornwall and Devon. Our seas are delicate, and sustainable practices are vital to maintaining their balance. Tuna are apex predators, crucial for the health of our oceans. By fishing responsibly, we’re ensuring that future generations can enjoy these magnificent creatures. Plus, the local economy is set to benefit from eco-friendly fishing tourism, and community involvement is growing.
To celebrate this glorious fish season and the return of tuna to our listings, join Shaun on another trip around our unit in Paignton. Click here to watch him take you behind the scenes in our unit (from the harbour counter to our ager and live room), with a special appearance from our first line-caught tuna.