What a catch! Welsh-caught bluefin tuna sold to the public for the first time.

The first five bluefin tuna landed at Milford Haven have been processed and sold locally for the first time, marking a milestone for the Welsh fishing industry. 

The tuna were caught as part of a commercial-scientific trial introduced by the Welsh Government.  

Participants in the trial use rod and reel only, record every catch in detail, and land their fish at designated Welsh ports, Milford Haven and Holyhead. In return for this extra data, they can target bluefin tuna in specified areas of the Welsh zone. 

The fish caught earlier this month were processed at a premises in Burry Port. The majority of the tuna was sold to the public at a Saturday walk-in fish market, where it was eagerly received by customers. The rest, including the fins, frames and heads, was sent out through a nationwide home delivery service, giving people across the UK the chance to try a piece of Welsh fishing history. 

Fishers are hopeful of landing further tuna, weather permitting, and want to build on the excitement around these first catches. 

The Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd, said:  

“These landings show how our fishers can combine tradition with science to build a sustainable future for bluefin tuna in Wales, and deliver locally caught fish to Welsh customers. 

“I'd like to congratulate everyone involved in this fantastic moment for Welsh fishing.” 

Teddy Whitall, Managing Director of Whitfish Ltd, said: 

“It means a great deal to be involved in purchasing and selling the first bluefin tuna commercially caught and landed in Wales.

“This is about more than the fish themselves: it's the start of a new chapter for Welsh fishing, creating fresh opportunities for our fishermen, coastal communities and the wider seafood sector.

“I hope this marks the beginning of something exciting for the future of the Welsh fishing industry."