An observation voyage by Seafish as part of a BIM-funded study Summary: Seafish was invited to take part in a BIM sea trial to test two different hook-and-line methods for catching Atlantic albacore tuna in the Bay of Biscay: by surface longline and by trolling with lures. Trials were conducted during July 2004 on board a converted Irish pelagic trawler, working from the French port of Les Sables d’Olonne. The trials work was done in conjunction with several French vessels fitted with longline equipment and a Spanish trolling vessel working with lures. The trial observed by Seafish was one of a series of voyages made by BIM in this fishery during 2004.
The objectives of BIM were to establish the efficiency of using surface longlines for albacore using different baits and deployment methods. A secondary objective was to encourage active co-operation with other European fisheries bodies and to disseminate the information obtained from this study. The objective of Seafish in attending was to be able to place the methods observed in context with the UK fishing industry.
The results from the trials showed that, whilst it was possible to catch tuna with surface longlines, the catch rates were very low when compared with the trolling method, which is the dominant method used in the Bay of Biscay by a mostly Spanish fleet. The French vessels that were testing longlines had inconsistent results during the trials. It was demonstrated that, for longlining, crew experience and vessel location were important factors in the success of the operation.
The report highlights the fact that although the UK has a quota for albacore tuna, at present, this quota is not used by UK vessels. A recommendation is made to disseminate the findings of the study to fishermen in southwest England (Cornwall) where there has been a previous interest in tuna fishing. A further recommendation is made to establish the market opportunities that exist in the UK for line-caught tuna.
