Results of Bluefin Tuna fishing trial in UK waters revealed

The results of the long-awaited return of Bluefin Tuna fishing to UK waters have been published.

Following a dramatic return of the species to water in recent years, UK fisheries administrators allowed a trial catch and release season last year that lasted 21 weeks and four days between August and December.

Figures released by the UK government’s Marine Management Organisation show that in total 3,359 bluefin tuna were caught –  an average of 3.3 fish – during 838 (83%) of the 1,014 trips.

The average length of the tuna boated was 167.7 and weighed 95.5kg.

The majority – 98.7% – were released in ‘good to excellent’ condition, with a reported 0.21% mortality rate before release.

Of the 93 vessels issued with permits, 81 were active at least once during the 2024 season.

The UK has a quota allocation of 66 tones of Bluefin Tuna for 2025, with 45 tons earmarked to the commercial fishery.