In the realm of fish, the common perception is that tuna fits neatly into small tins seen on store shelves. However, these marine creatures can reach massive sizes, contrary to popular belief.
The tuna consumed in the UK typically originates from five distinct species: albacore, bigeye, bluefin, skipjack, and yellowfin. Among these, skipjack, the most widely available type, is relatively small, with weights rarely exceeding 10kg.
On the other hand, the western Atlantic bluefin tuna, known for its colossal proportions, recently made waves on social media. A photograph resurfaced showcasing the largest bluefin ever caught, highlighting its immense size compared to the captor.
Ken Fraser made history in October 1979 when he landed a monster Atlantic bluefin off Aulds Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada. Weighing a staggering 1,496 pounds (about 679 kilograms), this record-breaking catch remains unmatched to this day.
Fishing alongside Capt. Eric Samson aboard Lady and Misty in Port Hood, Nova Scotia, Ken engaged in a strenuous 45-minute battle to bring in the gigantic fish. Despite initial challenges, Ken successfully secured the behemoth after it took the baited mackerel.
Reflecting on the extraordinary feat, Ken shared in his book Possessed how circumstances led him to take the reins during the intense struggle: “It’s just ironic; it’s just the way it happened. I wasn’t supposed to be in the chair, I was supposed to be helping get (the tuna) but I wasn’t supposed to be in the chair.”
The monumental 12ft tuna’s weight was only determined after approximately 10 hours of drying on the vessel, suggesting its live weight could have been considerably higher.
Ken’s enduring record, established over 45 years ago, stands as a testament to his remarkable achievement. While a significant Atlantic bluefin catch was recently made in British waters, surpassing 210kg (463lb) and fetching over £2,000 at Brixham fish market, Ken’s legacy remains unmatched.
Ian Perkes, the Devon fish wholesaler involved in the recent bluefin sale, noted the relatively new presence of bluefins in British waters. Describing a recent sighting of a large group, he emphasized the unique characteristics of these massive fish causing visible disturbances in the sea.
The bluefin tuna commonly observed in UK and Irish waters belong to the eastern Atlantic stock. These fish spawn in and around the Mediterranean Sea before migrating northward, extending as far as Norway and Shetland. Notably, this fish stock has exhibited a growth of over 20% in the past four decades.
Despite the recent surge in bluefin sightings off the Devon coast, a comparable occurrence last took place in the early 1950s. Ian hinted at the presence of skilled local fishermen responsible for landing notable catches from relatively modest vessels, highlighting the expertise within the fishing community.