Disappointment as only one Jersey fisher gets UK tuna licence

Fishing industry members on Jersey expressed deep disappointment after only one boat received a UK licence to catch and kill bluefin tuna, despite the island’s first opportunity to apply for part of the UK’s commercial quota. For the 2025 quota allocation, just one of six Jersey applicants succeeded through the UK government’s lottery system, leaving five without licences. Officials on the island said they would prefer Jersey to manage its own commercial quota going forward, arguing that licences could be tailored to the local fleet. A UK government spokesperson said the administration recognizes concerns in Jersey and is working with the Government of Jersey on future management of the fishery. The report highlights the impact of the licensing process on local access to the fishery.