Bluefin tuna is a particular species to fish. It is one of the few species that is subject to authorization for the recreational fisherman, including for no kill.
This fish almost disappeared a few years ago. International efforts and the implementation of drastic quotas have succeeded in saving this species whose stocks had reached a very critical stage.
For 5 years now, we have been lucky enough to see them every summer along the coasts of the English Channel and the Atlantic.

Who is concerned by this authorization?
All recreational or charter vessels wishing to fish for bluefin tuna as a leisure activity are obliged to apply for it when this activity is carried out in the East Atlantic or Mediterranean.
The authorization is assigned to the vessel and not to the person. Therefore, it is not necessary for the person making the request to be on board during the fishing trips.
Underwater hunters, who also compete with these giants of the seas, are subject to this request for authorization to harvest.
Kill or No kill ?
Regardless of the type of fishing, with or without taking, you will need a permit.
As of today, it is possible to make a request to the DIRM of your area.
The steps must be taken between March 21, 2022 and May 31, 2022.
To do so, you can send them by mail by sending the downloadable CERFA via this link or by teleprocedure (TELESISAAP). At the end of the procedure, you will receive a certificate to present in case of an inspection.

Within the framework of a collection, each retained fish must be immediately banded. The latter must be notched on the date of capture.
For any information, consult the DIRM website.
A season in several phases
The authorized no-kill fishing period will be from June 1 to November 15, 2022.

As regards the capture and thus the obligatory use of rings, 2 distinct periods exist:
- a first period from Saturday July 2 to Sunday August 28, 2022.
- a second fishing period from Monday, September 12 to Friday, September 30, 2022.
Please note that it is forbidden to fish for bluefin tuna at night from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., which corresponds to the time of sunrise and sunset in the summer.