2013 Albacore Season near Record Value to Fishermen, Feb. 25

After stowing away their albacore gear for the 2013 season, Oregon commercial albacore fishermen were pleased to learn that this season ranked the second highest in value to the fleet. Preliminary reports from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) show that the value to the fleet for 2013 was just over $16 million, about 35% higher than the 10-year average of $11.8 million. Only 2011 exceeded this value with $18.8 million. ODFW preliminary reports also show that 394 vessels landed 10.1 million pounds in 2013, about 4.5% higher than the 10-year average of 9.7 million pounds. This year Newport landed about 5 million pounds (48% of the catch), followed by Astoria with 2.5 million pounds (26%), and Charleston with 1.8 million pounds (18%). Other smaller ports along the Oregon coast brought in the remainder of the landings. Oregon Albacore fishermen are proud to provide this locally caught, sustainably harvested seafood to the consumer. For more information about Oregon Albacore visit our website – www.oregonalbacore.org.