Welsh-caught bluefin tuna sold to public for first time
A milestone for the Welsh fishing industry
Welsh-caught bluefin tuna has been processed and sold locally for the first time, marking a significant milestone for the Welsh fishing industry.
The first five bluefin tuna were landed at Milford Haven and processed at a premises in Burry Port.
The majority of the tuna was sold at a walk-in fish market, with the remainder distributed through a nationwide home delivery service.
This sale is part of a commercial-scientific trial introduced by the Welsh Government, aiming to establish a sustainable bluefin tuna fishery in Wales.
Participants in the trial use rod and reel, record every catch in detail, and land their fish at designated Welsh ports, Milford Haven and Holyhead.
Fishers hope for more landings in the coming weeks, weather permitting.
Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd, praised the initiative, stating it combines tradition with science for a sustainable future and delivers locally caught fish to Welsh customers.
Teddy Whitall, Managing Director of Whitfish Ltd, expressed optimism for the future, emphasising that the trial opens new opportunities for fishers, coastal communities, and the seafood sector in Wales.
Fishers participating must hold a valid UK commercial fishing licence, complete specific training, and follow strict guidelines to collect detailed data on their fishing activity.
The trial operates separately from the UK commercial fishery and aims to inform the operation of the fishery in future years.