20.03.03
Tuna pilot study of South West Objective One award

Robin Turner, Newlyn fish merchant and processor has been allocated a grant for over £40,000 to conduct a pilot project to find out whether there is a commercial and environmentally sound fishery for tuna.

The aims of the trial are to see if tuna species are present in South West waters and to see if they are accessible to small inshore vessels using fishing gear, which will not affect other species.

A highly experienced Cornish skipper and crew will run the vessel being used and will be working alongside a skilled marine biologist to complete the trial. Specialist equipment has been fitted to the vessel in order to carry out the survey. The equipment will allow the crew to attract and safely catch the tuna, bringing it alongside the vessel, where it will be identified, measured, tagged and released.

Once the trial has been completed a comprehensive report will be prepared detailing the methods employed and a discussion of the feasibility of pursuing tuna commercially for the South West using small boats on an ongoing basis.

Robin Turner, J H Turner & Co commented: “As a fishing innovation I believe that this experiment could break some new and exciting ground for the future, with the ability to accurately record what is going to take place during the study.”

Spike Searle, Project Officer of South West Pesca added: “This project is an exciting and innovative attempt to properly assess a stock before deciding on how best to fish for it – sustainably.”

Editor's notes:

For more information please contact:

Spike Searle, Project Officer
South West Pesca Ltd, Trevint House, Strangways Villas, Truro, TR1 2PA
Tel: 01872 270333
Fax: 01872 242470
Email: admin@swpesca.co.uk
Website: www.swpesca.co.uk

Robin Turner
J H Turner & Co
Tel: 01736 363726

Jason Clark
Communications Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Tel: 01872 241379
Fax: 01872 241388
jason@dclark.co.uk

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