Reports have again been received of bluefin tuna appearing in UK waters.
Atlantic bluefin tuna is recognised as an endangered species by the WWF and the IUCN Red List.
The UK has no specific quota to catch bluefin tuna.
Countries which are able to fish for bluefin tuna commercially are listed on the EC website. In normal circumstances bluefin tuna is a prohibited species for UK fishing vessels.
Commercial
Vessels must not target bluefin tuna and if caught accidentally they must be returned to the sea, alive and unharmed to the greatest extent possible.
Recreational
Sea anglers must not target bluefin tuna, any caught as a by-catch when targeting other species must be released immediately and not landed or brought onto the boat. This applies unless recreational catches are part of an ICCAT tagging project. If you find a bluefin tuna you should report this to the nearest MMO office. Sightings of shoals of the species at sea can also be reported to the ICCAT.
Further guidance on bluefin tuna regulations applicable to UK vessels can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Amy Wardlaw, MMO, - marine conservation
Amy Wardlaw, MMO, - marine conservation