Defra have announced in a policy paper that the UK will trial new small-scale commercial Bluefin tuna fishery.  For 2023 the UK has 65 tonnes of bluefin tuna quota, an increase on the quota in 2021 and 2022. The UK will use 39 tonnes of this quota to trial a new small-scale commercial fishery, which will assist in the evaluation of the sustainability of a small scale commercial bluefin tuna fishery and the social and economic benefits this new fishery could potentially provide to UK fishers.

The UK can make up to 10 licence authorisations available, in accordance with International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) vessel catching capacity guidance in ICCAT recommendation 22-08.

Fishery to open from 1 August to 30 November 2023

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO), on behalf of the UK fisheries authorities, will distribute the 39 tonnes of quota amongst successful licence authorisation holders to fish against. The fishery will be open from 1 August to 30 November 2023 subject to ICCAT registry. The quota will be managed by the MMO who reserve the right to re-distribute quota as required during the year.

Criteria for licence authorisation

Commercial fishing licence holders who meet specific mandatory criteria can apply to take part in the trial. These criteria are aligned with the UK’s commitment to meeting the requirements set by ICCAT and contributing to the sustainable management of the stock internationally.

To apply for a bluefin tuna licence authorisation applicants must:

• have a commercial fishing licence and be registered in either England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
• have a vessel under 15 metres in length
• use rod and reel fishing gears which only use lures – no live bait or chumming will be permitted
• agree to be contacted as part of a formal evaluation of the trial

Vessels from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland may apply to take part in the trial, but fishing for bluefin tuna will not be permitted in Welsh or Northern Irish waters in 2023.

Expression of interest to take part in the trial

Expressions of interest (EoI) from individuals and groups are welcome. EoI are due by 14 July. The full information from the policy paper can be found here and further detail about the bluefin tuna commercial trial fishery and how to apply can be read here.