Guernsey considers establishing bluefin tuna fishery

If the committee decides to pursue setting up a fishery it would need agreement from outside agencies

Establishing a bluefin tuna fishery in the Bailiwick of Guernsey is being considered by the Committee for Economic Development.

It comes as increasing stocks of Eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna mean it is no longer considered endangered.

Currently landing the fish is banned in the islands.

The committee is examining the options for what could be a "very limited commercial/recreational catch and release fishery".

It said in order to consider either a commercial or recreational fishery, it must first seek membership of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas.

The committee said this would involve compliance and legal work from its officers and officials from the UK's Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

It said if successful in getting membership it would decide how to manage the allocation secured as there is currently a UK quota of 65 tonnes for 2024.