Giant Tuna Caught in Canada Breaks World Record
When we think of tuna, many envision the small fish packed in tins on store shelves. However, some tuna species can reach immense sizes. The types of tuna commonly consumed in the UK include albacore, bigeye, bluefin, skipjack, and yellowfin. The skipjack, the most prevalent variety, typically weighs under 10kg.
In contrast, the western Atlantic bluefin tuna, the largest of its kind, can be staggering in size. A viral photo has resurfaced online showcasing the largest Atlantic bluefin tuna ever caught, which makes the fisherman appear tiny in comparison.
Back in October 1979, Ken Fraser reeled in a monster Atlantic bluefin off Aulds Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada, setting a record that still stands today. The colossal fish weighed an astonishing 1,496 pounds (about 679 kilograms).
Fishing with Capt. Eric Samson aboard Lady and Misty out of Port Hood, Nova Scotia, Ken engaged in a 45-minute struggle before successfully gaffing the record-breaking tuna that took a trolled mackerel as bait.
Ken shared in his book Possessed that he unexpectedly took over the fight from a tired crew member, eventually securing the world record catch. The 12ft tuna was weighed after drying out on the boat for approximately 10 hours, suggesting its live weight could have been even higher.
Ken’s record-breaking catch has remained unbeaten for over 45 years. Recently, a 210kg (463lb) bluefin tuna was bought at Brixham fish market by Devon fish wholesaler Ian Perkes for over £2,000, marking one of the largest examples of an Atlantic bluefin caught in British waters.
Ian noted that bluefins, a relatively new sight in British waters, have been seen in large numbers recently. He mentioned spotting these massive fish causing commotions in the sea, evident by the frothing water.
The eastern Atlantic stock of tuna found in UK and Irish waters originates from the Mediterranean Sea, with reports indicating a growth of over 20% in the past forty years. Ian highlighted the rarity of such a large group of tuna off the Devon coast, noting the last similar sighting dated back to the early 1950s.
While the identity of the fisherman who hooked the giant bluefin remains undisclosed, Ian praised the skills of local fishermen using rod and line from smaller boats for landing such impressive catches.