A catch and release fishery will open in England this summer, marking a significant step for recreational fishing enthusiasts.

New legislation effective today (Friday, 7 June) establishes permitting regimes for recreational fishing of Atlantic bluefin tuna in UK waters. This legislation allows vessels with permits to fish using rod and line on a catch and release basis, following the resurgence of the species.

This year, 16 tonnes of bluefin tuna quota have been allocated, enabling the opening of catch and release recreational bluefin tuna fisheries in UK waters.

In English waters, the fishery will open in August. The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) will start accepting permit applications for this fishery from 10-30 June 2024.

The new legislation is the result of a three-year scientific research program conducted by Cefas to understand the management of bluefin tuna populations. It also follows a formal consultation launched last year to gather public input on the permitting regimes.

For details on how to apply for a catch and release bluefin tuna permit in England, please visit the MMO. Photo by aes256, Wikimedia commons.