England’s 2025 Bluefin Tuna Season Opens

Friday 18 July 2025 marks the long-awaited opening of England’s Atlantic Bluefin Tuna recreational season for a second year – a thrilling opportunity for anglers to target one of the ocean’s most iconic species responsibly.

Under the Marine Management Organisation’s (MMO) permit system, this catch-and-release fishery is world-class, tightly regulated, and designed to support both sustainable sport fishing and the science that underpins it.

This is more than a fishery – it’s a flagship model for how world-leading angling and conservation can go hand in hand, supporting coastal communities and advancing our understanding of these incredible fish.

A Permit-Only Fishery: Know Before You Go

The recreational bluefin tuna fishery in English waters is permit-only. That means:

• Only licensed vessels (charter or private) are allowed to participate.
• Every person on board must be aware of and follow the permit conditions.
• Breaching the rules is not just poor practice – it’s a criminal offence.

Before heading out, make sure your paperwork is in order and your crew are fully briefed.

Follow the Code: Best Practice is Vital

At the heart of this fishery is the 2025 Code of Conduct for Recreational Catch-and-Release Bluefin Tuna. Developed with scientists, skippers, fishery managers and angling bodies, it’s essential reading for every angler involved. Following this code helps:

• Maximise the survival and welfare of released tuna.
• Maintain the integrity of the fishery.
• Secure the future of recreational access.

Read the full Code of Conduct here

Seven Golden Rules for a Sustainable Season

1. Catch and Release Only
Strictly no landing, transferring, or removing tuna from the water. All fishing must be by rod and line. Any breach risks permit loss or prosecution.

2. Prioritise Fish Welfare
Minimise fight times. Handle fish safely in the water. Allow for proper recovery before release. Angler skill and care directly impact tuna survival. Details are available in the best practice code of conduct.

3. Report Every Trip
Whether you catch zero or ten, every trip must be reported to the MMO within 24 hours. Data submission is vital for science and stewardship.

4. Stay Informed and Trained
Resources, videos and expert advice are available via the UK Bluefin Tuna Association Knowledge Bank. The fishery evolves each year so it’s vital for anglers to stay up to speed.

5. Respect Wildlife and Safety
Avoid interactions with whales, dolphins, seabirds and sharks. Always retrieve your gear promptly if necessary. Safety comes first – for you and the fish.

6. Support the Science
This fishery builds on successful pilot projects like CHART, which tagged and released over 3,200 tuna with a mortality rate under 5%. Your data helps refine and protect the fishery.

7. Be an Ambassador
This is more than just fishing. It’s a privilege. Set the standard. Inspire others. Protect the future of the fishery by leading with best practice.

Why This Fishery Matters

The return of bluefin tuna to English waters is a conservation success story. Their seasonal presence is a chance to:

• Support local economies through high-value, low-impact tourism.
• Strengthen fisheries science through angler-led data collection.
• Build public support for ocean recovery through responsible access.

The Angling Trust is proud to be a leading advocate for this fishery’s continued success, grounded in science, sustainability and community benefit.

Fishing for Today – and Tomorrow

Few things compare to the power and grace of a bluefin tuna. But with that privilege comes a duty: to fish responsibly, to follow the code, and to leave the fishery in a strong position for tomorrow. This season, let’s raise the bar. Let’s show how great angling can serve science, conservation, and coastal livelihoods – all at once.

Tight lines and best of luck for opening day: Friday 18 July 2025