Early‑August bluefin at Brixham — morning briefing
Brixham auction recorded 12 bluefin on 29 July — daytime windows open
Warm sea and calm conditions have pushed bluefin into the English Channel ahead of the usual run. Brixham and Plymouth are the obvious first ports of call, with Cornwall boats also showing heavy landings; one Cornwall skipper has already exceeded 1,000kg in early catches.
What’s biting today
Daytime trolling windows are firming up between first light and mid‑afternoon when birds and bait concentrate. Trolling lures in fast spread patterns and large single‑hook poppers are taking fish, while slow‑trolled deadbaits pick off solitary schoolers in deeper marks.
Water remains unusually warm this season and calm, producing tighter shoals. Expect surface activity near weedlines and current seams east of Brixham and off Plymouth Breakwater. Auctions in Brixham saw top prices near £22.50/kg, with many early fish selling around £13–£15/kg.
Fleet size has doubled since last year, so anglers should plan for busy slips and early starts. Successful boats are rigged for long drifts, carrying extra gimbal belt support and heavier braid for hooksets. The scene today: a line of boats off the harbour mouth, terns wheeling and a flash of blue beneath the surface.