The Stories Behind Our Sustainably Sourced Fleet

Featured Photo: Tele aboard the FV Nerka. 

At Whidbey Seafoods, our family is our foundation, but our fleet is the backbone – an assembly of vessels molded through generations of skill, a dedication to sustainability, and a deep reverence for the ocean. Each boat, carefully chosen and nurtured, plays a crucial role in bringing you the finest, responsibly sourced seafood.

F/V Nerka: Crafting Salmon Artistry

Meet Joel and Tele, second-generation salmon trollers aboard the F/V Nerka. Their dedication to quality is unmatched as they hand-deliver freshly cleaned, catheter-bled, and fresh-frozen salmon. As artists who see fishing as a form of art, the Nerka ensures premium salmon from October through April, offering a consistent source during off-seasons. The Nerka's commitment to quality aligns seamlessly with ours, making it an ideal partner.

F/V Baranof: A Legacy of Innovation

Step aboard the F/V Baranof, once a Coast Guard buoy tender turned into an innovative force in sustainable fishing. Specializing in red king crab, snow crab, sablefish, and Pacific Cod, the Baranof's environmentally friendly methods produce minimal bycatch. Frozen at sea, their catch preserves the rich, natural flavor at its peak. We chose to partner with the Baranof not just for its state-of-the-art processing methods but also for its dedication to environmentally friendly practices. From pot gear to longline fishing, their minimal bycatch approach aligns with our commitment to sustainability.

F/V Dangerous Cape: Family, Tradition, and Sustainability

Captained by lifelong fisherman Erik Velsko, the F/V Dangerous Cape embraces sustainable practices for harvesting halibut and sablefish. Under Erik's watchful eye, the family-run operation prioritizes quality and traceability. We partnered with the Dangerous Cape due to their commitment to sustainable fisheries management and high-quality seafood. Erik's extensive experience in Alaska's fisheries, combined with his family's dedication, ensures that every catch is harvested responsibly and delivered with exceptional quality. Short fishing trips, low bycatch, and a commitment to sustainability define the ethos of the Dangerous Cape's operations.

F/V Saga: A Small Wonder in Sustainable Shrimp Fishing

A family legacy spanning four generations, the F/V Saga may be small in size, but it's a powerhouse in sustainable shrimp fishing. Clocking in at 18 meters, the Saga's sidestripe shrimp and spot prawns boast exceptional quality. We chose to collaborate with Saga for its dedication to sustainable practices, its meticulous individual glazing of the catch with saltwater, and the unique approach of quick-freezing at sea. Saga's commitment to quality and their close-knit family ties resonated with us, aligning seamlessly with our vision for responsibly sourced seafood.

Every boat in our fleet is more than a vessel; it's a commitment to sustainability, a testament to craftsmanship, and a bridge between generations. Our personal connection to the sea, exemplified by our hands-on fishing on the F/V Baranof, allows us to carefully select partners who share our values. Join us in celebrating these vessels that make Whidbey Seafoods a beacon of excellence in the world of sustainable seafood. This is what it means to know your source and know your fishermen.