Tuna Fishing Dangers

Tuna fishing comes with several dangers as does nearly every type of commercial fishing. Forbes magazine states that the commercial fishing industry is the most dangerous profession in terms of fatalities with 142 deaths for every 100,000 workers. Slips and falls, falling overboard, high sea dangers, and accidents with equipment contribute to many of the injuries and fatalities of the industry. Tuna fishing is also blamed for environmental dangers. Some areas have been over fished placing the numbers of tuna in danger. Tuna fishing has also threatened other sea life.

  1. Dangers at Sea

    • The sea can be dangerous and unpredictable. Storms can develop with the ability to capsize the boat or send the vessel off course. It is also possible to end up floating on the open sea with limited supplies. Whether fishing for sport or pleasure, anyone fishing for tuna needs to be prepared for potential dangers at sea.

    Net Dangers

    • Tuna fishing often involves the use of large nets. These nets are heavy and can potentially knock a person overboard if they are not paying attention. Getting tangled in a fishing net while on board can cause injury. Being trapped under one while in the water is potentially fatal. Anyone fishing with tuna nets needs to be aware of what others are doing. The nets are often in motion and can cause trips, falls, tangles and falls overboard.

    Wildlife Dangers

    • Commercial tuna fishing poses danger to sea and wildlife. Dolphins often follow schools of tuna and unfortunately get caught in nets. Fortunately, most tuna fishing boats have divers on board that help release trapped dolphins before the net is hoisted onto the boat. Science Daily also reports that the tuna fishing industry is responsible for the death of over 6,000 sea birds. In addition to sea birds, sharks and sea turtles are often trapped in tuna nets.