TUNA, THE STAR PRODUCT OF THE MOGAN‘S SEA

The Canary Islands are located in the middle of the migratory route taken by tuna in the Atlantic Ocean. They travel long distances in search of food and reproduction.

Five species of tuna pass through the waters of the Canary Islands. These species are the yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares), the bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus), the bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus), the albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga) and the skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis).

To prevent overfishing, the European Union has set a quota for tuna catches. The fishermen’s associations of Mogán are responsible for controlling the quantities caught and respecting the quota for each area.

Tuna fishing has a long tradition in Mogán. It is fished using traditional methods, from boats, one at a time and with a rod, where a hook is used to attract and hook the tuna selectively.

This technique requires skill and dexterity on the part of the fisherman to handle the rod and control the strength of the tuna once they are hooked. It is a laborious process as each tuna is caught individually, ensuring responsible and sustainable fishing.