In the vast expanse of the Atlantic, where the mighty bluefin tuna once teetered on the brink of extinction, a remarkable story of recovery unfolds. This narrative, however, is not solely about the resurgence of these majestic creatures but also about the delicate balance between conservation and the art of fishing. As Hannah Rudd, the Angling Trust's Head of Marine and sustainable fisheries expert, delves into the intricacies of this catch-and-release fishery, she reveals a tale of progress, challenges, and the profound responsibility that comes with sharing the waters with these recovered giants.
The bluefin tuna, once a staple of British waters, had all but vanished within living memory. Their return, a testament to the success of international rebuilding efforts, has sparked a new era of fishing. But this is no ordinary fishery. It is a test of our commitment to conservation and the ethical considerations that come with pursuing a recovered species. The year 2026 marks a turning point, as mandatory training and an evidence-based code of conduct are implemented to ensure the highest standards of care for these magnificent fish.
Rudd's personal interpretation of this fishery is one of cautious optimism. She believes that the mandatory training is not just a formality but a crucial step towards ensuring the well-being of the bluefin. In her opinion, the training syllabus, developed in partnership with various organizations, sets a new benchmark for responsible fishing. It covers fish welfare, best practices, bycatch mitigation, and legal obligations, ensuring that even experienced skippers are held to the same high standards.
One of the key insights from this fishery is the understanding that catch-and-release is not without its impact. While the at-vessel mortality is genuinely very low, post-release mortality can still occur due to the stress of the fight. Rudd emphasizes that tagging studies have revealed a post-release mortality rate of between three and six percent when handled to best practice. This highlights the importance of short fight times, appropriate gear choices, and holding the fish alongside to recover for a full five minutes before letting it go.
The training and code of conduct, therefore, serve as a considered, evidence-based answer to a simple duty of care. Every step has a reason backed by science, as Rudd argues. If one intends to let a fish go, they owe it their best effort to see that it swims away strong. This commitment to responsible fishing is what sets this fishery apart.
However, Rudd acknowledges that the fishery is not without its challenges. Access is a contentious issue, with permits weighted towards charter vessels and private boats left on the outside looking in. The lottery system, while fair on its face, can be frustrating for committed skippers. She also highlights the need for a balanced approach to access, ensuring fairness between regions and spreading effort sensibly across the coast.
The true test of this fishery, in Rudd's view, lies in its ability to keep faith with the recovered species once the novelty fades and competition sharpens. The hard, unfinished work is in the areas of access and fairness, where the UK Government has yet to find a solution. The phased approach, opening the fishery gradually across the quota cycle, is seen as the right shape for addressing these challenges.
In conclusion, Rudd reflects on the journey of the bluefin tuna's recovery and the conversation about how we share them. She acknowledges that this is not the last word on the matter, as the fish's strong feelings and the ongoing challenges will surely lead to further discussions. For now, she is content to picture the revived bluefin swimming in the dark water, a testament to our shared responsibility to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures.
