Angling Notes: A call for skippers

Applications opened last Thursday for angling skippers to catch-and-release Atlantic bluefin tuna as part of a collaborative scientific survey.

The initiative is geared to collect details on their size, where and when they occur in Irish waters, and information gleaned from their recapture in foreign fields.

The programme saw recaptures for the first time in 2023. Changes in the size of the fish encountered were noted, thus providing positive data on their iconic and tightly managed species.

Recreational angling for Atlantic bluefin tuna is prohibited in Ireland. Unauthorised vessels are not permitted to target or catch bluefin and unauthorised individuals found to be targeting bluefin will be liable to prosecution.

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However, under the Tuna Chart programme, authorised charter vessel skippers can catch, tag and release bluefin during the open season with the help of anglers on board.

Skippers will be required to have high specification rods, reels and lines to ensure that each bluefin is brought alongside the vessel for tagging in a timely manner, prior to their subsequent release.

In previous years tuna were carefully managed (subject to strict guidelines set by the Tuna Chart programme), and all were released alive.

In 2023 the programme recorded two recaptures of tagged Atlantic bluefin tuna for the first time; 381 bluefin tagged; 239 tuna angling trips and 4.5 bluefin caught per trip in the most successful week.

In 2024, a maximum of 25 authorisations may be granted to qualified angling charter vessel skippers around the Irish coast.

This fishery opened on July 1st and will close on November 12th. Experienced charter skippers can apply to join the 2024 Tuna Chart programme between May 2nd and May 8th by completing an application form from IFI at 01-884 2600.

The Tuna Chart programme is a collaborative data collection programme between Inland Fisheries Ireland and Marine Institute in partnership with the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications.

*The recent Tomas Burke two-day midweek fly fishing on Lough Mask attracted 126 competitors all eager to whet a line and seek out the ‘big one’. Peter Diver with six good-sized trout (one at 2.5lb) won the event and Patrick Burns took second place.

If you have an angling story to share, please send to me at angling@irishtimes.com