TAIPEI — Taiwan’s annual bluefin tuna season has officially begun with a remarkable first catch: a 175-kilogram bluefin tuna landed in Pingtung, signaling the start of one of the island’s most closely watched fishing events.

Pingtun port location south of Taiwan -->

The prized fish was hauled in by the vessel Fuh Yu Qing 2, captained by Hung Fu-chia (洪福家), a seasoned fisherman with 53 years of experience. The catch came after five days at sea, making the moment both surprising and exhilarating for the crew.

“I didn’t expect it,” Hung said, recalling the tense battle that lasted approximately 30 minutes. The crew nearly lost the fish before successfully bringing it aboard. “I was so excited afterward that I couldn’t sleep.”

Each year, Taiwan’s tuna season runs from April to early July, drawing national attention as the first qualifying catch earns the coveted title of the “first tuna.” This distinction carries both prestige and strong market value.

Hung reported catching the fish in waters southwest of Taiwan on Sunday, before returning to Tungkang Harbor. The following afternoon, the Tung Kang Fishermen’s Association conducted a detailed inspection.

Bluefin tuna examined at Tungkang Harbor. (CNA photo)

Officials evaluated multiple criteria, including the fish’s eyes, mouth, skin luster, and the color of its belly and tail, while also reviewing footage confirming it was caught using the regulated hook-and-line method. The tuna was verified to have been caught alive, properly tagged, and processed according to regulations, including the removal of its gills.

After weighing in at over 175 kilograms, the fish was officially certified as the season’s first.

Cheng Yu-chen (鄭鈺宸), general manager of the association, announced the designation and highlighted the rarity of the catch’s location. Bluefin tuna are typically found in southeastern waters, making this southwestern catch unusual.

Tungkang port and fresh tuna at the local Fish Market

Cheng also noted that Hung is the most senior captain to ever secure the season’s first tuna, praising his decades-long dedication to the fishing industry.

Interestingly, Hung revealed that the crew had originally set out to catch sailfish, but fate intervened when the massive bluefin took the bait instead.

The highly anticipated first tuna auction is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Tungkang Fish Market, where buyers are expected to compete fiercely for the prized catch, often seen as a symbol of good fortune for the season ahead.