Who caught the largest bluefin tuna on record?

Ken Fraser caught the largest bluefin tuna on record, a 1,496-pound specimen in 1979.

Are bluefin tuna common in UK waters?

While once rare, large bluefin tuna are being sighted more frequently in UK waters recently, with populations growing.

How much did the record bluefin tuna weigh?

The record-holding bluefin tuna weighed an astonishing 1,496 pounds (approximately 679 kilograms).

Home / Environment / Giant Tuna Record Stands: 1,496 lbs of Ocean Power

Giant Tuna Record Stands: 1,496 lbs of Ocean Power

21 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Ken Fraser's 1979 record of a 1,496-pound bluefin tuna remains unbroken.
A recent 210kg bluefin tuna sighting off the UK coast is a notable occurrence.
Eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna populations in UK waters have grown significantly.

Giant Tuna Record Stands: 1,496 lbs of Ocean Power

In 1979, Ken Fraser secured a monumental world record by landing a 1,496-pound Atlantic bluefin tuna off Nova Scotia, Canada. This colossal catch, weighing approximately 679 kilograms, has stood unmatched for over 45 years, highlighting the sheer scale these fish can achieve. The battle to reel in this giant lasted 45 minutes, a testament to its immense power and size.

While Fraser's record persists, massive bluefin tuna have recently been sighted in British waters. A 210kg (463lb) specimen was recently purchased at Brixham fish market, signaling their return. These sightings are linked to a notable increase in eastern Atlantic bluefin stocks, which have grown by over 20% in the last 40 years as they migrate from the Mediterranean.

The presence of such large tuna, previously rare, has caused considerable commotion in the seas off the UK coast. This resurgence, with large groups spotted feeding, marks a significant shift in marine activity. It suggests a healthy recovery for these magnificent ocean giants, potentially bringing them closer to shores not seen for decades.