Doug Fraser, a fisher from Northport, was recognized today by Premier Robert Ghiz for landing the largest Bluefin tuna in Prince Edward Island in 2010. He was presented with the Premier’s Cup, an annual award which recognizes the important role the tuna fishery plays in the economy and the international recognition it brings to Prince Edward Island.
“I congratulate Mr. Fraser on his achievements and on his significant contributions to the tuna fishery,” said Premier Ghiz. “The tuna fishery is overcoming a number of challenges and that is because of the hard work of fishers like Mr. Fraser and others who help to ensure it is well managed and sustainable.”
Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair was also in attendance for the presentation.
The 1,184 pound Bluefin tuna was landed on the first day of the season on October 4. Mr. Fraser fought the tuna for one hour aboard the vessel Wild Winds ‘08 off North Cape. He had assistance from his helper, Brian “Bubba” Boyce.
Mr. Fraser, a lobster fisher since 1968, has been fishing tuna since1991. He is presently co-chair of the Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association Tuna Advisory Board and is one of Canada’s two industry members on the International Commission on Conservation of Atlantic Tunas. He participated in the most recent international proceedings on Bluefin tuna held this past November in Paris, France.
A total of 391 tuna were landed by Prince Edward Island fishers in Island waters in 2010 with a total weight of 132.15 metric tonnes. The tuna fishery has a landed value of approximately two million dollars and exports to key markets in Japan and the United States.