Go Deep: Oregon’s Albacore Tuna Fishery
Each summer, when the ocean warms and the northwesterly winds ease up, Oregon fishers set their sights on a prized catch that’s equal parts adventure and sustenance: albacore tuna.
Far offshore—often 50 to 100 miles out—these sleek, fast-swimming fish cruise through cobalt blue water in search of baitfish. And behind them? A small but mighty fleet of trollers, hauling in one tuna at a time with barbless hooks and a time-honored technique that’s about as hands-on as fishing gets.
Local Ocean Fish Goddess Amber Morris, proudly displaying fresh-caught Albacore tuna on Newport’s docks
A Local catch with Global pedigree
You may know albacore from a can—but Oregon albacore is something else entirely. These fish are young, small-bodied, high in healthy omega-3s, and low in mercury. They're caught close to home and handled with care, resulting in a sashimi-grade product that’s wildly different from the industrial stuff.
Oregon’s troll-caught albacore is part of a boutique fishery that’s been recognized as a “Best Choice” by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program. It’s sustainable, traceable, and deeply seasonal.
The Chase
Catching albacore isn't for the faint of heart. The season runs from July to October, depending on ocean conditions. Fishers follow the “blue water”—a signal that warm Pacific currents and the tuna they carry have arrived. Once they find the fish, the real work begins.
Each albacore is caught individually, often by hand on a rod and reel. This low-impact method means no bycatch and a much higher-quality product. The fish are bled and chilled immediately, ensuring pristine texture and flavor. When they land at the dock, they’re gleaming silver torpedoes—fresh, clean, and ready for the kitchen.
Fisherman Brett Montague of F/V Jo El, explaining the fishery with visitors from African nations fisheries managers
Sustainability at Sea
The Oregon albacore fishery is a standout in sustainability. Unlike industrial tuna fisheries that use longlines or purse seines, Oregon albacore are caught one at a time using troll gear. That means virtually no bycatch—no sharks, seabirds, or juvenile fish swept up in the process.
Each boat is independently operated, often by families or small crews, and their practices are rooted in both tradition and stewardship. The fishery is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and is regularly reviewed by third-party sustainability programs like Seafood Watch.
What’s more, the tuna caught off Oregon’s coast are juveniles—typically 3 to 5 years old—which means they haven’t accumulated high levels of mercury like older fish from other parts of the Pacific. It’s a win for your health and the health of the ocean.
The Science of the Fishery
Oregon’s albacore season isn’t determined by a hard date—it’s dictated by oceanographic science. Albacore follow the transition zone chlorophyll front, a region where cold, nutrient-rich water meets warm offshore currents. Scientists and fishers alike monitor sea surface temperatures, plankton concentrations, and current flows to anticipate when and where the tuna will appear.
The U.S. albacore fishery is part of an international management framework overseen by the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) and the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC). These organizations monitor albacore stocks through tagging programs, genetic studies, and satellite data.
Oregon’s Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) also collects real-time data on landings and biological samples, working with fishers to ensure long-term viability of the stock. It's a rare case of science, sustainability, and small-boat fishing working together in harmony.
Local Ocean canned Albacore
The Flavor of the Oregon Coast
Oregon albacore has a mild, meaty flavor with a buttery richness that makes it incredibly versatile. Grill it, sear it, poach it in olive oil, or slice it raw into poke or crudo—it holds its own in just about any preparation.
At Local Ocean, we celebrate this fish every summer with dishes that highlight its clean flavor and story. From tuna kabobs to Hawaiian-style poke, to DockBox meal kits you can make at home, Oregon albacore is always a seasonal centerpiece.
Tuna dishes, pictured from left to right: Teriyaki Kabobs, Niçoise Salad, Poke, Creamy Miso, Amarillo, and Berry Salad. Each season brings a fresh celebration of Oregon Albacore. Find out what’s featured on the current Local Ocean menu here and Daily Specials menu here
Why It Matters
Supporting Oregon’s albacore fishery means backing independent fishers, sustainable seafood, and a stronger coastal economy. These are fishers who venture far offshore in small boats, often alone or with just one crew member, relying on deep skill and intuition to find their quarry. It’s slow fishing. Ethical fishing. And it delivers one of the best fish you’ll ever eat.
Go Deeper
Oregon Albacore Commission – Learn more about the fishery and the people behind it
Seafood Watch: Albacore Tuna (North Pacific, Troll-Caught) – See why it earns a “Best Choice” rating
Marine Stewardship Council: North Pacific Albacore – Certification details
DockBox Meal Kits – Cook with it at home. Featuring regular seasonal offerings of Albacore, as well as canned tuna
