Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements
Bluefin tuna catch and release applications re-opened
Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has re-opened the process to apply for permits for 2025’s bluefin tuna catch and release fishery.
Applications were paused at the end of April to enable adjustments to guidance and application criteria, focusing on inclusion of relevant experience and training held by masters as well as vessel owners.
The criteria to be eligible for a permit and the application form now recognise master and skipper training either through the Cefas UK CHART programme or the Recreational Angling Training for Bluefin Tuna Permit Holders 2024 funded by the Government’s Fisheries and Seafood Scheme.
There is an additional requirement that the individuals with this training must be aboard for each fishing trip if they are awarded a permit.
MMO’s adjustments to guidance and eligibility mean that interested stakeholders will need to submit a fresh application via the online or paper forms here.
To take account for the pause in the process, the closing date for submissions has been extended to 2 June 2025 from 18 May 2025.
Full guidance on this year’s catch and release fishery is available here.