1 minute read

The great Atlantic bluefin saga

from National Fisherman — Summer 2023

by National Fisherman

from National Fisherman — Summer 2023, page 50

Article from: National Fisherman — Summer 2023

CRE WSHOTS

REVIEW BY: BOB HUMPHREY

K” “Kings of eir Own Ocean” by Karen Pinchin is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the history, management, and conservation of the iconic blue n tuna. Pinchin’s personal obsession with the sh drives her on a globe-spanning journey that spans centuries and industries.

e book revolves around the story of a tuna named Amelia Earhart and a sherman named Al, who caught and tagged her before she resurfaced in a Mediterranean sh trap years later. rough this narrative, Pinchin delves into the science, business, crime, and environmental justice associated with the blue n tuna shery. She introduces notable gures like Al Anderson, a pioneering gure who transitioned from catch-and-kill captain to catch-and-release citizen scientist.

Pinchin’s historical accounts provide a rich backdrop, tracing the evolution of blue n tuna shing from ancient subsistence practices to the boom and bust cycles of commercial and recreational shing. e author sheds light on the species’ extraordinary char- acteristics and the pivotal role sushi played in driving the modern blue n sales boom.

What distinguishes this book is Pinchin’s deep passion and obsession with blue n tuna, evident in her engaging, eloquent writing style. She seamlessly incorporates intimate testimonies from industry professionals, anglers, scientists, and environmentalists, weaving their stories into the narrative.

For those involved in the blue n shery, the book strikes a personal chord, exploring the rise of the industry, price uctuations, scienti c research, potential population crashes, and the path to a hopeful future. Pinchin o ers insights into awed management practices and presents a promising paradigm shift through the Management Strategy Evaluation model.

Not only the story of a sherman and a remarkable sh, it’s a tale that re ects the global challenges we face. With historical depth and thought-provoking analysis, this book deserves a place among the classics of tuna literature. Whether you are an angler, scientist, or simply fascinated by blue n tuna, Pinchin’s work is a must-read that emphasizes the importance of studying history to shape a sustainable future.

KINGS OF THEIR OWN OCEAN: TUNA, OBSESSION, AND THE FUTURE OF OUR SEAS