A common misconception about tuna is that they are small fish that fit neatly into cans on grocery store shelves. However, these fish can actually grow to be massive in size.
In the UK, the tuna consumed typically comes from five different species: albacore, bigeye, bluefin, skipjack, and yellowfin. Among these, skipjack is the most readily available and tends to weigh under 10kg.
On the other hand, the western Atlantic bluefin tuna, the larger relatives of these smaller species, are truly enormous creatures. Recently, an image of the largest Atlantic bluefin ever caught has resurfaced online, showcasing a colossal fish that towers over the man who reeled it in.
Back in October 1979, Ken Fraser made an extraordinary catch when he hooked a monstrous Atlantic bluefin off Aulds Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada. Weighing an astounding 1,496 pounds (about 679 kilograms), this fish remains a record-breaking catch to this day.
Fishing alongside Capt. Eric Samson on the Lady and Misty vessel in Port Hood, Nova Scotia, Ken engaged in a 45-minute struggle to reel in the massive fish, eventually landing it after it took the bait.
“It’s just ironic how it all played out. I wasn’t supposed to be the one in the chair, but that’s how I ended up with a world record: a 1,496-pound fish,” Ken reflected on the remarkable catch.
After drying out for approximately 10 hours on the boat, the 12-foot tuna was finally weighed, though its live weight was likely even greater.
Ken’s record-setting catch has stood for over 45 years, a feat that may never be surpassed. Despite this, a significant Atlantic bluefin was recently captured in British waters, where Devon fish wholesaler Ian Perkes acquired a 210kg (463lb) specimen at Brixham fish market.
Ian noted that the presence of bluefin tuna in British waters is relatively new, with a recent surge in sightings indicating a growing population. These sizable fish have been causing disturbances in the sea, visible through frothing water as they feed.
The eastern Atlantic stock of tuna, commonly seen in UK and Irish waters, originates from the Mediterranean Sea before migrating north to regions like Norway and Shetland. Over the past 40 years, this fish population has reportedly expanded by over 20%.
While such a large group hadn’t been seen off the Devon coast since the early 1950s, recent observations suggest a resurgence of these fish in the area. Ian highlighted the skill of local fishermen in landing such remarkable catches, emphasizing the use of rod and line from modest-sized boats for these impressive hauls.