TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s annual tuna fishing season officially began with the first catch of the year, a 175-kilogram bluefin tuna brought to a harbor in Pingtung, per CNA.

The tuna season typically runs from April to early July and draws widespread attention when the first qualifying catch is designated the “first tuna.” This year’s fish was caught by the vessel Fuh Yu Qing 2.

Captain Hung Fu-chia (洪福家) expressed surprise at the catch, as his crew had spent five days at sea. He described reeling in the fish as both tense and exciting.

On Sunday, Hung reported to authorities that he had caught the bluefin tuna in waters southwest of Taiwan. He then returned to port, where the Tung Kang Fishermen's Association inspected the fish on Monday afternoon.

As the tuna was hoisted from the hold, its size and condition drew admiration from onlookers. An appraisal team examined the fish’s eyes, mouth, skin luster, and the color of its belly and tail, and reviewed footage of the hook-and-line catch.

Officials confirmed the fish was caught alive, bore identification tags, and had its gills removed in accordance with regulations. It was then weighed and verified to exceed 175 kilograms.

Cheng Yu-chen (鄭鈺宸), general manager of the local fishermen’s association, formally declared it the first bluefin tuna of the season. The first tuna auction is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Tungkang Fish Market.

Cheng said bluefin tuna are typically caught in southeastern waters, making a catch in the southwest rarer. He added that Hung is the most senior captain to have landed the first tuna, praising his decades of experience and dedication.

Hung, who has 53 years of fishing experience, said this was his first time catching the season’s first tuna. He said he had originally planned to target sailfish but unexpectedly hooked the bluefin instead.

Recalling the moment, Hung said the crew battled the fish for about 30 minutes and nearly lost it. With a team effort, they were able to bring it aboard. He said he was so excited afterward that he could not sleep.