What is North Coast Catch?
Noyo Harbor takes great pride in our commercial fishing fleet. With over 80 active fishing vessels, the fleet plays a vital role in supporting the local economy in our coastal communities. In Noyo Harbor, we know every boat is a business and that business supports a local family.
The vast majority of the seafood consumed in the United States is imported. This cuts heavily into our local fishing industry and directly impacts our families who rely on the ocean for their livelihood. Imported seafood can be cheaper and more accessible than local species, which makes it hard for local fishermen to compete.
This is where North Coast Catch comes in. Noyo Harbor District, in partnership with West Business Development Center, created this program to raise awareness for our nine local species. Eating local minimizes your carbon footprint and maximizes your food’s freshness and flavor.
Where to find us?
Where to Find Us
Markets around Mendocino County have committed to being a significant part of the sustainable seafood movement. By patronizing these local markets, you’re showing your support for local fishermen and clean oceans.
Harvest Market, Fort Bragg
Princess Seafood Market, Fort Bragg
Mariposa Market, Willits
Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op, Ukiah
Left Coast Seafood, Ukiah
Surf Market, Gualala
Little Dory Seafood Co, Point Arena
The 9 Species of Noyo Harbor
Rockfish
lean, mild and great in tacos or burgers
Petrale Sole:
5x more protein than ground beef. Delicate, mild, buttery.
Dover Sole
Has the highest protein content of any food. Quick cooking, tender, nutty flavor.
Lingcod:
Low in fat, high in protein. Firm, sweet, versatile.
Blackcod:
Superfood with 2x more Omega-3s than salmon. Soft, buttery, velvety.
Rex Sole:
Cooks up really fast. Fine flakes, mild, delicate.
California King Salmon:
Heart-healthy! Rich, melt-in-your-mouth, meaty
Albacore Tuna:
Often canned, fantastic seared. Firm, fresh-tasting, silky.
Dungeness Crab:
Low-calorie, makes you work for it! Succulent, salty, tender.
Tell Me More
It’s a North Coast Catch species but the label is missing, is it still North Coast Caught?
No, our local fishmongers work hard to ensure they are getting the freshest, most local fish into their stores; however, they often work with 3rd party distribution companies to ensure they have fish available. This means that the fish may be from Canada or elsewhere. However, it remains an excellent option for dinner.
Was this fish caught in Noyo Harbor?
Potentially yes! It is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to track fish by port once it has been cut. However, the 9 species that make up the North Coast Catch program are the top fished species in Northern California, and by purchasing these species, you know that you’re supporting fishermen along the North Coast. Even if that fish was caught out of Humboldt Bay or Bodega Bay.
Shop Seasonally, Eat Sustainably
What is sustainable fishing?
Sustainable fishing minimizes impact on the ocean habitat and wildlife, ensures safe working conditions for fishermen and, for wild caught fisheries, manages populations, controls overfishing and ensures the gear has minimal environmental impacts. This means healthier oceans, more abundant wildlife, cleaner fishing and overall conservation of fish habitat.
Noyo Harbor is one of the most sustainable and successful ports along the California Coast. We work closely with regional leaders and researchers to ensure our catch respects the delicate balance of the ocean’s ecosystem. And since North Coast seafood is by definition sustainable, when you support local boats and buy local species, you’re also helping to support sustainable fishing practices, protect local jobs and help support a resilient ocean economy.
Shop seasonally with seafood
One of the best ways to shop sustainably is to choose seafood in season. Just like eating local, in-season vegetables, choosing seafood in season is responsible, fresh, and can support local families. Asking for and buying, seasonal seafood from your local markets and restaurants encourages them to buy from local fishermen, helping to strengthen our regional food system.
How do you know what fish is in season?
Keep handy our seafood season chart, ask your fishmonger or ask a fisherman! At Noyo Harbor, our fishermen are seasoned pros and always know what’s on.
When you buy with the seasons, you’re not just making a purchase, you’re making a difference.
BUY LOCAL, BUY DIRECT
Buy Direct from the Fishermen, Fresh Off the Dock
Another great way to support your local fishermen is to buy directly off the docks. At Noyo Harbor, every boat is a small business, and many vessels sell their fresh catch directly to you. There’s no better way to enjoy seafood than straight from the docks, caught by local fishermen. To get the freshest seafood on your table, sign up for dockside fish sales alerts to be updated on which vessels are coming into port and what they’ll be selling.
Before You Arrive: A Few Tips for the Best Dockside Experience
• Bring Cash: Many fishermen don’t take credit cards.
• Bag It: When buying whole or live seafood, bring a bag or bucket.
• Ice It: Pack ice or a cold pack if you’re not headed right home.
• Watch Your Feet: Wear sturdy footwear for dockside safety.
• Get Chatty: Ask your fisherman about their catch. Fishermen have great stories!
• Tip Well: If they fillet your fish, make sure to tip.
• Have Fun! Enjoy supporting local, small businesses while savoring fresh, sustainable seafood.