Premier Presents Tuna Award

Fisher, Earl White of Beach Point was recognized today for landing the largest Bluefin tuna of the 1999 season.

Mr. White was presented with the Premier's Cup today at the Provincial Legislature. The award was instituted by Premier Binns in recognition of the role tuna fishing plays in the Island economy and the international recognition it gains for Prince Edward Island.

The Bluefin, landed on September 16, by Mr. White and his mate Scott Higginbotham aboard the boat WHITE WATER '97, weighed 1294 pounds with a dressed weight of 898 pounds and brought $9 per pound from the buyers. Premier Binns says it took about two hours to land the tuna. He also pointed out that while Mr. White has been fishing tuna for only two years, he has caught two tuna off Prince Edward island and three tuna in one day off Nova Scotia. "I am pleased to present Mr. White with this trophy in recognition of his achievement and his commitment to the fishing industry."

In 1999, a total of 189 tuna were landed on the Island. That represents an increase of 98 fish over the 1998 season, and reflects the rebound of a fishery which attracts participants from around the world."

The staff of the Department of Fisheries and Tourism will continue to promote the sport fishery through media contacts worldwide.