A number of the Cork based authorised bluefin tuna boats had their first fish of the season in the last few days…
Tony Santry, Skipper of Tigger, had two bluefin tuna at the weekend. These are the first tuna caught off the Cork coast this year. A big well done to Dave Bradley on catching both bluefins, estimated to weigh 500lb and 550lb. Tony says he was astounded at the power of these early season fish with the first fish making at least 4 very good runs. The second was also a powerful fish and took at least 700 to 800 yards of line on his first run. They put up great fights testing both angler and the tackle to the very limit.
Tony tells us it was truly an awesome sight to see these magnificent creatures rise to the surface after a mammoth fight and it was even better to see them tagged and released as they both powered off into the depths to continue their global journey. Dave dedicated his epic battle and most importantly the safe release of these two magnificent bluefin Tuna to the memory of the late Martin Cole who passed away recently.
Mike Walsh, Skipper of Ocean Ranger, was quick to follow with a tuna caught tagged and released yesterday.
And Dave Edwards at helm of Silver Dawn had his first tuna of the year earlier this morning. The bluefin came after only 30 minutes from starting fishing. At 95 inches it works out at about 553lb so another big fish for the Cork boats.
Go Fishing
Tigger
Pro-charter Offshore 31. 330 HP
Skipper: Tony Santry
Base: Cork Harbour Operational Area:
Authorised blue fin tuna boat
Notes: Cork Angling & Tuna Charters operates on the south coast of Ireland out of Cork Harbor. We cater for all types of angling from general fishing trips ,shark fishing, common skate, off shore wreck fishing and Giant Bluefin Tuna (catch, tag & release).
We cater for complete novices to highly experienced anglers. Simply bring your wet gear and sandwiches or bring your own fishing tackle and we will provide the rest through your highly experienced skipper.Based in Marlogue Marina on Cobh island in Cork Harbor, we fish the waters to the east, south and southwest along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Address: Marlogue Marina, Cobh, Co. Cork
Telephone: +353 87 216 5761
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.facebook.com/Cork-Angling-and-Tuna-Charters-106337004488934/
Ocean Ranger
Safehaven Marine Catamaran. Twin 575 Volvo
Skipper: Michael Walsh
Licence: P5
Base: Kinsale Operational area: 30 miles out of Kinsale, Crosshaven
Authorised blue fin tuna boat
Notes: We have charters to suit everyone, but are always happy to discuss a trip tailored especially for you; just contact us to discuss your ideas.
Address: Kinsale, Co.Cork.
Tel: 086 252 0891
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.atlanticcharters.ie
Silver Dawn
41′ Rodman 1250. Twin 430 HP Engines
Skipper: David Edwards
Licence: P5 Licence
Base: Courtmacsherry Operational Area:
Authorised blue fin tuna boat
Notes:The range of fishing found within close range of Courtmacsherry is superb, with trips producing anything between 6 and 15 different species as a norm and in excess of 20 is possible if anglers are prepared to change methods and use different baits and lures throughout their trip. As a rule mackerel, pollock, cod and ling are usually encountered but several species of wrasse along with whiting, pouting, coalfish, bull huss, conger and many more are often added to the catch.
If you do choose to head offshore to sample the superb shark fishing available within 10 miles of Courtmacsherry, there is a very strong chance of encountering blue sharks and an increasing chance of bringing a porbeagle shark to the boat.
Address: The Pier, Courtmacsherry, Co. Cork.
Telephone: +353 (83) 449 1403
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.irelandseaangling.com
Tuna CHART
Tuna CHART (CatcH and Release Tagging) utilises authorised vessels to catch, tag and release Atlantic Bluefin Tuna for data collection purposes off the Irish coast. The programme, developed by Inland Fisheries Ireland and the Marine Institute in partnership with the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department for Environment, Climate and Communications, operated on a pilot basis in 2019 and 2020.
The 2021 season will open on the 1st July and close on the 12th November 2021.