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Is Tuna in Trouble? Here's What Every Angler Should Know

From ocean to table, tuna faces mounting pressure.

July 25, 2025

Tuna is one of the most popular—and heavily fished—species on the planet. Found on sushi menus, in sandwich shops, and at the end of countless fishing lines, this ocean predator is vital to both ecosystems and economies. But with demand at an all-time high, many anglers and conservationists are asking the same question: is tuna endangered? The answer depends on the species, the fishery, and how sustainably it’s managed. In this article, we break down the facts to help you understand the current state of tuna populations and what it means for the future of the fish—and the sport.

Biggest World Record Bluefin Tuna Ever Caught

Bluefin tuna is the largest tuna species and makes for some of the most impressive catches of all time. The world record bluefin tuna catch occurred nearly 40 years ago. As the years go by, it looks less and less likely that anyone will break this record. It was a jaw-dropping catch. Ken Fraser and his crew caught the fish on October 26, 1979. 

The Unfortunate History of the Endangered Tuna

Tuna populations are declining rapidly. In the past 10 years, tuna stocks have decreased by almost 50%. The sad part is that this process has been going on for decades. Tuna populations were at their peak in the 1960s, and now they're quickly disappearing before our very eyes. Fishing regulations exist to help curb overfishing of tuna, but we may be too late to save them from extinction.

The Big Catch

Here they are—your catches, your stories, your proud moments on the water.
Submitted by you, shared by us. From record-setting lunkers to the ones that got away (but you got the photo!), every fish tells a tale. Big or small, it’s not just about the catch—it’s about the memory, the company, and the thrill of the fight. Thanks for letting us be part of your fishing story.

Kameron held his own and landed this beauty solo 🎣

One wild Icelandic brown trout with serious personality 🎣

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At Fishmasters, we live for the tug on the line, the splash of the catch, and the stories told around the campfire. Whether you're casting off a backcountry dock, chasing trophies offshore, or just getting your feet wet, we're your go-to source for fishing tips, gear guides, and destination deep-dives. We blend real-world know-how with a passion for the great outdoors—because fishing isn’t just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. Let’s make every cast count.