Mandatory training is now required for English bluefin tuna permit applicants, with skippers and masters completing training before catch‑and‑release.
Skippers and masters seeking a bluefin tuna (BFT) catch and release permit for English waters in 2026 will now be required to complete mandatory training as part of the application process.
Applications for the recreational catch and release fishery open today (24 March) and must be submitted by 23:59 on 13 April to be considered for this year’s scheme. The training scheme is delivered by the Angling Trust and supported by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), with the aim of ensuring the fishery operates to the highest standards of welfare, safety, and professionalism.
ICCAT Endorsement Enables 2026 Application Process
The UK’s bluefin tuna fishing plan has been endorsed by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), clearing the way for applications to begin. For 2026, the UK will allocate 20 tonnes of quota for up to 230 recreational permits across UK waters, with around 140 to 150 of those authorisations expected to cover English waters. This quota includes allowances for incidental mortality.
A further 120 tonnes will be available for up to 30 commercial licence authorisations using low‑impact rod‑and‑reel gear, supporting the development of a sustainable, well‑managed commercial fishery.
MMO expects to open both the recreational and commercial fisheries in mid‑July under the authorisation and permit process.
Compulsory Training Now Part of the Permit Process
Andrew Wills, MMO’s interim Head of Future Fisheries, said the introduction of compulsory training marks an important development for the recreational fishery.
“From this year we’re introducing compulsory training for the catch and release fishery,” he said.
“This means all applicants offered a permit will have to ensure their named masters fully complete the Angling Trust‑accredited BFT training, before receiving their authorisation.
“We are starting the catch and release permit process earlier this year to enable permit holders to take the training before the season begins in mid‑July.”
The Angling Trust training costs approximately £450 per person and includes modules on fish welfare and best‑practice handling, bycatch mitigation, reducing marine disturbance, at‑sea etiquette, angler safety, and the regulatory requirements of the fishery. No alternative training will be accepted.
Angling Trust Welcomes Stronger Standards
Jamie Cook, CEO of the Angling Trust and Fish Legal, said mandatory training represents a crucial step in the evolution of the UK’s bluefin tuna fishery.
“This is a world class recreational opportunity, but it comes with a responsibility to operate to the very highest standards,” he said.
“By ensuring every skipper is properly trained, we are protecting the welfare of these remarkable fish, supporting angler safety, and helping to build a fishery that is sustainable and respected internationally.
“The Angling Trust is proud to be working with MMO, Defra and other stakeholders to deliver this programme, and we look forward to working with permit holders to set the benchmark for best practice in catch and release fisheries.”
Commercial Fishery Applications Coming in April
For the commercial fishery, 30 authorised vessels will be permitted to target and land bluefin tuna in 2026, with each vessel receiving a four‑tonne allocation. The application process, expected in early April, will be followed by provisional offers in May. This will determine the geographical distribution of the fishery for the coming season.
Applicants may apply for both recreational and commercial authorisations if they meet the separate eligibility criteria. However, a single vessel cannot hold both a recreational permit and a commercial licence. Multi‑vessel operators may participate in both fisheries only through separate vessels.
