In Oregon, we fish for better flavor and a brighter future.
The fast, powerful Oregon Albacore– silver-flanked with long slender lateral fins–are hand-caught, one at a time, and handled with care all through the process.
Fishing vessels tow lures called “jigs” from fishing lines attached to outriggers, that are extended on either side of the boat. Albacore is also caught on individual poles held by fishermen using bait. The water temperature needs to be just right – between 58˚F and 64˚F – and the boats need to move at a fast clip to attract the albacore. It is truly a craft that takes skill and experience.
Once an albacore bites, the fisherman lands it by hand, removes the barbless hook, and transfers it to ice for the fresh market or to an on-board freezer. In both cases the fish is preserved in as fresh a state as possible. The time from the ocean to the ice or freezer isn’t more than a few minutes.
This type of fishing, sometimes called trolling, hook and line, or pole caught, produces the very best quality and eliminates inadvertent catch of other types of fish (called by-catch), such as sea turtles and dolphins.
Upholding high standards and sustainability in fishery management.
The fishing practices of the Oregon Albacore fleet are a source of pride for Oregonians. These high standards have been commended by leading environmental groups.
Ranked a Best Choice by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program. This ranking is the highest global standard. One of only four super-green seafoods on the MBA Seafood Watch Super Green List.
Certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as caught by sustainable and well-managed methods.
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The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch awarded Oregon Albacore with a “Best Choice” because of the abundant stocks and environmentally friendly fishing methods.
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The Marine Stewardship Council certified the fishery as well-managed and sustainable.