Premier Binns Presents 2003 Premier's Cup

The 2003 Premier’s Cup has been presented to Richard W. Ellsworth of Tignish for landing the largest tuna during last year’s season. The award was presented by Premier Pat Binns at the Legislature on Wednesday.

Mr. Ellsworth was fishing out of Tignish aboard his vessel Pappy’s Pride along with crew member Lorne Gavin. The bluefin tuna was landed on August 13 after a nine-hour fight, and weighed in at 1168 pounds.

“I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Richard Ellsworth and all the other tuna fishermen in this province who have made the industry such a success,” said Premier Binns. “The activity generated from the recreational and sport fishery provides significant benefits to fishing communities and to the province as a whole.”

Premier Binns said that Prince Edward Island is an ideal destination for those who are seeking one of the most exciting sport fishery experiences in the world.

The Premier’s Cup was established in 1998 by Premier Binns to recognize the importance of the Island tuna fishery and the international attention it receives. Last year, a total of 386 tuna were landed in 13 Island ports, with a total weight of 180 metric tonnes, meeting the Island’s quota. The Premier would like to see that quota increased to provide a more equitable share to Island fishermen.