Bluefin catching contest ignores calls to cancel

An annual catch-and-release fishing competition in Cornwall went ahead this week despite calls from an animal rights group to scrap it.

- OLIVIER VERGNAULT

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) had written to the Bluefin Tuna Association's chief executive Steve Murphy asking for the competition to be cancelled, saying that it was cruel to animals and arguing that such sports should not have any place in our society.

The UK Bluefin Tuna Championships 2025 returned to Falmouth Harbour on Thursday and runs until today (Saturday), bringing together more than 200 anglers and more than 30 boats for a catch and release fishing competition.

Organisers of the second annual competition said ahead of the contest that Falmouth Harbour would become a hub of fishing, entertainment and conservation during the event.

Sam Narbett, one of the event's organisers, said: "This championship captures the spirit of bluefin tuna fishing, skill and teamwork all underpinned by a deep respect for our marine environment.

"We're proud to operate a strict catch-and-release format and honoured to work alongside our supporters to deliver a great experience."