Temporal-Spatial Influences on Atlantic Bluefin Tuna CPUE in Recreational Fishery in the Aegean Sea: A Generalized Additive Model Approach

Abstract

The Thunnus thynnus, a sought-after fish in recreational fishing, demands sustainable management due to its migratory nature. However, the lack of data on the impact of recreational fishing hampers understanding. This study aims to address this gap using Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) data from fishing contests on the Urla Peninsula (2016-2022). Findings revealed a yearly influence on CPUE, with the mean at 5.56±0.49 Kg·day-1. The peak was in 2018 with 13.98 Kg·day-1. Individual catches ranged from 305 to 10.45 Kg. 'Catch' was 21 times more prevalent than 'Catch and Release.' More catches occurred in the southern area, possibly due to tuna fattening cages. The study showed a yearly influence, but the dataset is insufficient to fully understand the environmental variables' impact. Despite the limitations, the potential of this data as a future benchmark for recreational fishing efforts is significant.