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England
The 2024 Regulations enable the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) to proceed with the application process that will allow around 85 permitted vessels to operate in the BFT catch and release recreational fishery (CRRF) in English waters.
The fishery is expected to open in early August and run until December 2024.
Key dates for the English BFT CRRF:
- BFT CRRF application period opens 10 June.
- BFT CRRF application period closes 30 June 2024.
- Applicants will be notified whether they have been successful or not, between the 15 July and 19 July 2024.
- BFT CRRF opens early August.
- BFT CRRF closes at the latest by 31 December 2024.
Wales
Welsh Government have opened applications for a bluefin tuna catch and release recreational fishery taking place in Welsh waters. In 2024 applications are open to charter vessels. Applications are open until 23:59 14/7/24.
Full details can be found at the following link: Bluefin Tuna Catch and Release Recreational Fishery GOV.WALES
Scotland and Northern Ireland
Scotland and Northern Ireland will not be opening BFT CRRFs in their waters in 2024.
Joining the 2024 English BFT CRRF
You will need a permit to join this fishery.
Permit numbers will be proportionate to the amount of quota available to cover any incidental BFT mortalities.
The MMO will be responsible for issuing permits for the English BFT CRRF. In 2024, permits will be free of charge. In future years, charges are likely to be introduced.
How English BFT CRRF permits will be allocated.
To be eligible for a permit you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be the owner of a vessel registered in the United Kingdom under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.
- Your vessel must not be less than 5 metre in overall length and must be powered by an engine/motor.
- You must not have secured a permit for the UK commercial BFT fishery trial. See Bluefin tuna (BFT) commercial fishery within UK waters - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- You must not have secured a permit for another UK BFT CRRF.
- If your vessel is used for charter fishing trips, you will need to provide a copy of your Small Commercial Vessel Certificate (SCV2).
- You will be asked to submit a recent photograph of your vessel with external registration markings on display.
The permit application process will be open from 10:00 on Monday 10 June until 23:59 on Sunday 30 June.
All applications will be evaluated once the permit application process has closed. If MMO receive more applications than the number of permits available, then MMO will prioritise applications as follows:
- Priority 1: Charter vessels owned by those who skippered or owned a vessel that participated in a UK CHART programme.
- Priority 2: Charter vessels owned by those who participated in a UK CHART programme as crew.
- Priority 3: Any other charter vessel owned by an individual who does not meet the requirements of category 1 or 2.
- Priority 4: Private vessels
Some permits will be reserved for private vessels to ensure this group also has the opportunity to participate in the 2024 English BFT CRRF. They will be issued by lottery and no priority will be given to private vessels owned by those who participated in a UK CHART programme.
Due to the expected volume of interest, submitting an application will not automatically guarantee that you receive a permit. MMO reserves the right to undertake a random selection process if required.
In the unlikely event of undersubscription, MMO may consider extending the application submission period to allow more applications. This will be communicated as appropriate.
How to apply for a 2024 English BFT CRRF permit.
For your application to be considered, all evidence must be attached in one email, with the subject heading BFT CRRF application submission, and sent to: BFT.recreational@marinemanagement.org.uk
You will need to complete and submit the following:
- Complete the BFT CRRF application form attached below.
- Provide a copy of the UK Ship Registercertificate showing that your vessel has been registered on either part 1, 2 or 3 of the UK ships register.
- Provide a copy of your Small Commercial Vessel Certificate SCV2 only required if your vessel is used for charter fishing trips.
- Provide a photograph of the vessel displaying external registration marking on the hull to allow for identification.
- Applicants can also include copies of evidence/documentation supporting their CHART involvement. Optional