Oregon Albacore - Buying Tuna Off the Docks!

One of my favorite times of year is when the Albacore Tuna Fishing Fleets come to shore and sell fish directly off the boats! It’s always so fun chatting with these fishermen about their season and directly supporting their tireless efforts. Not to mention, Oregon Albacore is one of the best quality fish we have! 

If looking to buy fish off the docks, check here for fleets coming in with fish!   Not all boats are actively listed, so stop by a port on your coastal trip and follow any signs that say Tuna For Sale! Most commercial fishing ports will have tuna boats in at some part of the season. If not buying directly off the docks there are a number of fish markets and stores (on the coast and in-land) that carry fresh Oregon Albacore, many listed here. 

What’s so special about Oregon Albacore? 

Oregon’s Albacore are caught when schools are running closer to the coast, which is also the time the fish are taking advantage of our coastal upwelling and feeding on rich schools of anchovies and sardines. Albacore caught off Oregon’s coast are also smaller, higher in beneficial omega 3s, and have more flavor than when caught in other locations. 

Oregon’s Fleet is made up of independent family fishermen. These families depend on the state of this fishery for their livelihood, and want the fishery to remain healthy for years to come. 

Every single tuna caught off the Oregon Coast has been caught by hook and line, also called trolling, or pole caught. Hook and line fishing ensures that only one fish is caught at a time, resulting in respect and care for every individual fish brought onboard. It also prevents by-catch, or the unintentional catching of unwanted species like dolphins or turtles. Tuna fishing standards have been put forward by leading environmental groups to ensure sustainable harvest for generations to come. Oregon Albacore is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council as well-managed and sustainable as well as listed as a “best choice” option on the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program. 

The Oregon Albacore Commision helps to represent Oregon fishermen and carry out programs of market development, education, research, and promotion. troll-caught salmon, crab, albacore tuna, or ocean trawl fish.