Hand operated tuna pole
Datebefore 1988
Object number00006049
NameTuna pole
MediumFibre glass, nylon
DimensionsOverall: 35 x 3403 x 35 mm
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionEach fisherman has a tuna pole, such as this fibreglass pole, custom built to suit his height. The men stand in racks close to the water and brace their knees against fenders during fishing. Lures are attached to the pole to attract the tuna. Earlier poles were made from cane.HistoryTuna can be caught using the live bait and pole method. It is an exhausting contest between the fisherman and tuna weighing up to 80kg. A school (patch) is located by a lookout or spotter plane and lured to resemble a shoal of baitfish. Live bait (chum, berley) is thrown to the tuna to start a feeding frenzy. Fresh or frozen bait, even feathers, are jiggled at the end of short lines on poles. Tonnes of tuna can be landed in sessions that might last for hours.
Five commercially important species of tuna are caught off South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia as they pass on their migratory routes. Overfishing has however drastically reduced numbers, particularly of the southern bluefin tuna. To overcome the problem quotas are set which limit the total amount of tuna caught in season. However demand has almost outstripped supply. The canning industry and the export of whole frozen or chilled tuna keep the fishery alive today - but only while the stocks last.SignificanceThis is an excellent example of the types of equipment used in the Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishing Industry.
before 1988
before 1988
