A Big Fat Garibaldi Tuna.. For The Lady…
You don’t have to sit down at a fancy seafood restaurant to eat some of the freshest tuna on the Oregon Coast. Sometimes, you just have to know when and where the boats come in. Tuna season begins late June through early October with peak season being August when the fish migrate closer to the coast. So if you’re trying to experience 10 Days of Tuna and get in with the tuna experts, keep August open in your schedule.Many places along the Oregon Coast celebrate tuna season and one place in particular I really wanted to check out this year. Down in Garibaldi, where commercial fishing is still very much a part of the community, the journey from ocean to dinner table can be surprisingly short.
Fresh Pacific Albacore tuna comes straight out of the cold waters off Oregon’s coast and into the hands of people who want to know exactly where their seafood came from. It’s more than just picking up a piece of fish- it’s getting a taste of the Pacific, supporting local fisherman, and experiencing a little piece of Oregon’s working waterfront for yourself. When you choose Oregon Albacore, you’re choosing one of the most sustainable fisheries on the planet. These fishermen caught one at a time with minimal catch, helping to protect ocean ecosystems. Plus- buying it supports coastal communities and keeps traditional fishing livelihoods alive. Sustainable for the ocean, good for the community too, and here’s what makes Oregon albacore so special, these tuna are caught right off our coast. Using hook and line methods one fish at a time means less per catch, less impact on the ocean floor, and a fishery that puts sustainability right at the center of the catch. When you buy Oregon albacore, you’re not just buying a can of tuna or a piece of fresh fish, you’re supporting the fisherman who make their living on these waters, the coastal communities that depend on them, and the local fishery that’s been part of Oregon’s identity for generations.
Where do we go from there? Well, it depends on what you’re wanting to experience. For instance, if you want to take one of the charters out and go catch a tuna yourself, there are tons of amazing fishing charters along the coast, depending on what area you are in. Deep Sea Fishing Charters, Garibaldi Charters, and Lewis and Clark Guide Service are just a few of many in that area. If you are looking to purchase the freshest catch while you are vacationing for a week so that you can grill up some of the freshest catch along the Pacific, The Spot in Garibaldi is a beloved local fish market tucked directly into the Garibaldi Maureen basin.
Or perhaps you’re in search of a much larger quantity, like to stock up? You can put your name on the list at Captains Corner Seafood Market, which I absolutely love. But if you’re wanting to go directly from the source, then you can catch one of the active tuna vessels at the docks like the Evening Star, operated by Captain Kenny Bushnell who is a respected and longtime fisherman in the Garibaldi area, and that is exactly where I went. He was wonderful and quick like you wouldn’t believe! I’ve heard wonderful things about Lady Lee as well. Though these are just a few names I’ve dropped, places that I did get to go and check out for myself, but there are tons of passionate and hard-working fishermen out there and lots of local businesses that are there for the community and ready for your business!
So if you decide to go from boat to plate, be ready for the call. And when I say be ready, I mean, have your ice chest and ice ready. Then pricing- tuna will range anywhere from $4-$6.00 per Lb, Off the dock. You can have it cleaned and cut for you there for an extra charge, maybe $10, which is absolutely worth it if you don't know what you’re doing, and I say that in the most kind way. If you are spending the money for a whole fish, you risk losing meat if you’re not skilled. Not to mention, they are complete masters so watching them with the fish and filet knife is actually quite an impressive show.
Every August, Garibaldi comes alive with a popular fishing competition known as the Oregon Tuna Classics. This event is strong in its community and charity focus and brings anglers from all over together. It supports conservation, raises funds for the Oregon Food Banks, and celebrates the albacore fishery heritage on the coast. Now for the heart and big picture: While the Oregon Tuna Classics celebrates the excitement of the catch, the Pacific Albacore Tuna Project ensures Oregon’s albacore remains one of the most trusted seafood choices around.
Scientists, fisherman, and state agencies work together, testing for mercury and naturally occurring radiation, and decades of data show consistent safety well within health guidelines. The result? Peace of mind for families. The ones who love the clean ocean flavor. From the lively scene on the docks and Garibaldi two jars lining pantry shelves months later,Oregon’s albacore season represents far more than a successful catch. It reflects a community built on sustainable fishing, scientific stewardship, and tradition of providing families with one of the Pacific Northwest’s finest seafoods. There are many different seasons to celebrate along the coast. Now you can make sure this is on your annual events list. Whether you’re in it for the festivities like The Oregon Tuna Classics, chasing your first catch, or prepping to stock your freezer and pantry, tuna season on the Oregon Coast is definitely a special time and memories you will make that last forever.
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