Almost 40 southern bluefin tuna, weighing more than 100 kilograms each, have been caught in Portland waters since Monday morning, sparking a fishing frenzy with people travelling hundreds of kilometres to lure a prized catch.

Glenelg Shire mayor Anita Rank said it had been the highest number of 100 kilograms or more hauls ever seen and it was believed to be a new record for the city. 

"Our beloved tuna catch is continuing to bring national headlines to Portland and hundreds of tourists with it generating tens of thousands of dollars for our visitor economy," Cr Rank said.

"All week the Portland harbour has been a constant hive of activity, with the boat ramp full and parking at a premium with hundreds of keen anglers waiting to secure that elusive 100kg catch and impressively many are successfully doing so." 

The competition runs over four weekends from Saturday until to Sunday, April 28 from the Portland Yacht Club with winners sharing in a $5000 cash prize pool. 

Cr Rank said the prime conditions had come at a perfect time. "We are anticipating this year's competition might just break the record books for the heaviest catch we've seen so far, given the buzz we've had this week.

"We've had multiple reports of beginner's luck, whereby novice fishers have taken to the waters this week only to walk away with a 100kg plus tuna in their boat," she said.

Hosted by the council in partnership with the Portland Sports Game Fishing Club and Portland Lions Club, the tuna competition includes a new tag and release category, further strengthening the sustainable fishing practices of the competition which requires all fish to be gutted and bled.

Registration is $20 per person per weekend, or a one-off fee of $40 which covers four weekends of fishing. To register visit trybooking.com/BBOZW

For more information go to the Hooked on Tuna Facebook page or go to glenelg.vic.gov.au/hookedontuna

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