Euskal Herria (País Vasco) tiene aproximadamente 3,2 millones de habitantes y su flota pesquera tiene mucho prestigio internacional.

First Major Albacore Tuna Landing in Getaria Signals Optimistic Campaign Start in Gipuzkoa

SPAIN
Friday, June 20, 2025, 17:00 (GMT + 9)

8,000 Kilos Priced Between €10.5 and €12 per Kilo (Approx. $11.20 - $12.80 USD) Point to a Promising Season

GETARIA – The Albacore Tuna season has officially commenced today in Gipuzkoa with the first significant landing at the port of Getaria. The vessel "Santana Berria" spearheaded this start, disembarking 8,000 kilograms of the highly prized tuna. Prices for this initial transaction ranged between €10.5 and €12 per kilo (approximately $11.20 - $12.80 USD, using a reference exchange rate of 1 EUR = 1.066 USD), with individual specimens weighing between 10 and 11 kilos each, confirming excellent quality for this first batch.

Following the conclusion of the anchovy season, most purse seine vessels have shifted their focus to Albacore, which is already appearing in Cantabrian Sea waters. The small-scale fishing fleet has also joined the campaign. As of today, although landings are not yet massive, virtually the entire fleet is now engaged in fishing for this tuna, using both live bait and trolling methods. In Gipuzkoa, 38 vessels operate with live bait and about half a dozen with trolling.

The sector approaches this season with notable optimism, particularly as this year's quota has significantly increased: Spain will be able to fish 26,004,730 kilograms of Albacore Tuna compared to 22,362,000 kilograms last year. It is important to remember that this is an "olympic quota," meaning it is not allocated per vessel, thus promoting competition for the catch.

The Albacore Tuna landed today in Getaria carries the Eusko Label distinction, certifying its differentiated quality. Furthermore, it holds MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certification, guaranteeing that the fishery is sustainable and respectful of the marine environment, by employing artisanal and selective fishing gear.

Thanks to the current proximity of the Albacore schools to the coast, the fleet operates relatively close to our shores. This will allow for the enjoyment of high-quality fresh product in Gipuzkoan fishmongers from these very first days of the campaign.

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