History Made in Falmouth: UK’s First Bluefin Tuna Catch and Release Tournament

Published On: 4 October 2024Last Updated: 4 October 2024By CornishStuff

The UK’s first-ever Bluefin Tuna Catch and Release Championship has taken place off the coast of Falmouth, marking a major moment in both sportfishing and marine conservation. Organised by the UK Bluefin Tuna Association (UKBFTA) and the Sportfishing Club of the British Isles, the event celebrated the successful combination of sport, science, and sustainability, with 43 fish caught, measured, and released back into Cornish waters.

Film Credit: Adam Watson of Twin Fin Film

Tournament Highlights

The tournament began with a “shotgun” start from Falmouth Harbour in perfect weather conditions. Thirteen boats from across the South West raced towards the fishing grounds, up to 12 miles offshore, where they encountered large numbers of Bluefin Tuna. Every boat in the tournament managed to catch and release at least one fish, showcasing the abundance of this species in the area.

Among the standout achievements of the event was the Championship win by St Ives skipper Sam Narbett aboard the vessel “Bluefin”. Sam recorded a total length of 209 inches (531 cm) from his three largest tuna. Close behind was Jerry Rogers from Dream Catcher 2, with a total of 200 inches (508 cm). The prize for the largest tuna went to David Mordecai from Torbay, with a fish measuring 83 inches (211 cm).

Photo: Ladies Team Captain Katy Davidson with the 1st fish of the day CREDIT ANDREW TIMOTHY_

Science and Sustainability in Focus

The tournament was also an opportunity to gather important scientific data, with footage from the day shared with scientists from Exeter University. Associate Professor Lucy Hawkes, who was present at the event, explained how this competition provides valuable insight into Bluefin Tuna behaviour. “Seeing these tuna from the sky and underwater gives you a totally different perspective on what these incredible fish are up to,” Lucy said.

The event is part of a broader initiative known as the Catch and Release Recreational Fishery (CRRF), developed over six years by a partnership that includes the UKBFTA, the Angling Trust, DEFRA, and other key organisations. This fishery is designed to protect Bluefin Tuna while allowing for sustainable sportfishing, with strict rules focused on fish welfare.

Photo: David Mordecai on Gadget

A Groundbreaking Event

Katy Davidson, captain of the first all-female team to participate in the tournament, also played a key role in organising the event. Supported by local brand Huntress and Home, Katy said, “It was an absolute privilege to be part of this inaugural event.” She expressed excitement for the future, noting that planning is already underway for the 2025 Championship.

The tournament also had strong support from Falmouth Harbour, which sees the event as a key part of its future calendar. Tristan Rowe, Commercial Operations Manager, commented on the enthusiasm of both the competitors and the scientists involved. He added, “We are delighted to support this event, which has a great future.”

Photo: Aaron Barratt shot of Prize Giving

The Return of Bluefin Tuna to UK Waters

Bluefin Tuna were once a common sight around the British Isles, but their numbers dwindled due to overfishing. Since 2016, however, conservation efforts have seen their return to British waters for around five months each year. Events like the Falmouth Bluefin Tuna Championship help raise awareness of these efforts while contributing to marine science and the local economy.

According to a DEFRA/Cefas study, the CRRF generated a Total Economic Impact of £2.6 million in 2022, with just 25 boats participating. The organisers aim to expand the tournament in future years, hoping to attract anglers from across the globe.

For more information on the tournament, visit the UK Bluefin Tuna Championship website. You can also learn more about Falmouth Harbour and their work, or explore the ThunnusUK programme run by Exeter University, which tracks Bluefin Tuna in UK waters.