In season
From June to October
Fleet
Purse-seine fishing boats
Fishing method
Live-bait line fishing
Fishermen per boat
16 to 18 fishermen per boat
Fishing time
15 to 20 days

Bluefin tuna

The largest of the tuna family, Bonito del Norte is also considered the best thanks to its highly-prized reddish, slightly fatty flesh. Their size, speed and strength has attracted the admiration of fishermen since ancient times. These white tuna are caught using live bait and can weigh over 100 kg.

Description

Shape
Bluefin tuna have strong, fusiform bodies and large, triangular-shaped heads.
Colour
They have dark blue backs that almost look black. The belly is silvery white and the flesh is typically red.
Eating habits
While they are known to feed on fish, crustaceans and cephalopods, it is not uncommon for them to eat anything that looks like moving prey.
Length and weight
2m longAround 100 kg

How to detect the freshness of fish

The flesh of the bluefin tuna is deep red except for the fatty areas such as the belly which are pink.

Do not buy fish that is covered in unsightly 'goo'. Fresh fish has a natural, moist sheen.

The flesh should be firm to the touch.

Fresh tuna has a clean, fresh smell of seaweed and the sea.

El pescado en casa

Keep refrigerated

As the cold chain can easily be broken once the fish leaves the fishmonger, it is important to store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator (between 2 and 4°C). Always consume as soon as possible.

Handle with care

To enjoy fish at its best, the less it is handled, the better. Always handle and cut fish quickly and firmly.

Store wrapped in a damp cloth

The best way to keep fish fresh for longer is to store it in the fridge wrapped in a damp cloth.

Fish freezes well

The fresher it is when you freeze it, the better it will be upon thawing. To ensure best results, always allow frozen fish to thaw slowly in the fridge to prevent sudden changes in temperature.

Bluefin tuna tartare

Ingredients

  • 450 ml olive oil
  • 100ml garum
  • 50 ml apple vinegar
  • 450ml skate pickling oil
  • 450ml garlic oil
  • 20gr Espelette pepper
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