A collection of resources from recipes to stories that will get you hooked and reel you in.
Deep Dive
Stories
Conducted by Kate, Program Operations Manager at Get Local Fish Reviewed by Pete on 9/30/25 Early Years and Vessels Kate: Do you have a business name? Pete: No. Just Peter Halmay. Kate: And the name of your vessel? Pete: It’s called the MOTI — M-O-T-I. Kate: How many years have you been fishing in San
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Stories
Conducted by Kate Fitzgerald, Program Operations Manager HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FISHING? I grew up in South Africa, and fishing was always a part of my family. Both of my grandfathers were fishermen, and my dad and uncle fished as well. Every summer vacation, we’d spend two weeks living off the coast, catching
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Stories
Conducted by Kate Fitzgerald, Program Operations Manager HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FISHING?I’m really a product of my environment. I was raised right in Point Loma, so the ocean was everything to me. I was lucky to have surfing and diving right in my front yard. My parents have been members of the yacht
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Resources
In California, catching fish with a Commercial Fishing License is only step one. If you want to sell that fish, either directly to the public, to restaurants, or through a buyer, you need the right business license. Here are the three main business licenses that we get a lot of questions about: Who needs it:
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Resources
If you plan to fish for Highly Migratory Species (HMS) such as swordfish, bluefin tuna, or sharks in federal waters off the U.S. West Coast (if you fish beyond 3 miles), you’ll need a Pacific HMS Permit issued by NOAA Fisheries. As of September 2025, the application system is fully online through the NOAA Fisheries
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Resources
When it comes to preparing high quality fish, especially for raw preparations like sashimi or crudo, timing is everything. One of the most overlooked steps is letting the fish rest on ice before filleting. This simple choice makes a big difference in texture, flavor, and shelf life. What is Rigor Mortis? Why Does It Matter?
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Resources
Our local waters are home to a rich diversity of seafood species that often go unnoticed or underappreciated. Expanding our seafood choices beyond the usual suspects can help ease pressure on popular fish stocks, support local fisheries, and promote healthier ocean ecosystems. From Spanish and Pacific Mackerel to Rockfish, Sheephead, and Kellet’s Whelk, these underutilized
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Resources
By Local Fish Climate change is on everyone’s mind—and what we eat plays a bigger role than many realize. When it comes to seafood, choosing local fish isn’t just about freshness or flavor. It’s an effective way to reduce your carbon footprint, support healthy oceans, and fight climate change. Here’s why eating local fish is
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Resources
It can be intimidating to ask questions at the fish counter or while ordering seafood at a restaurant—but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing what to ask can help you make choices that are fresher, more sustainable, and better for your local community. This guide will help you shop and eat with confidence—whether you’re at
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Resources
San Diego boasts many markets, dockside sales, and restaurants dedicated to local catch. Below are just a few great spots to start your local seafood journey—there are many more! For a more complete and up-to-date list, check out the Local Fish Fishfinder page on our website. 1. Tuna Harbor Dockside Market Downtown San Diego
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Resources
Summer is a prime time to eat local. The warmer months bring a dynamic mix of species into Southern California waters, from nearshore favorites to fast-moving pelagics. Whether you’re buying from a dockside fisherman, local market, or restaurant menu, here’s what’s swimming now—and why it’s worth seeking out. 🐟 White Seabass This SoCal classic isn’t
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Resources
Below is your go-to list of CDFW contacts specifically tailored for commercial and recreational fishermen in California. This resource provides essential information for licensing, fishing regulations, and enforcement issues. 📌 License & Revenue Branch (Licenses, permits, validations, and general licensing questions) Commercial Fishing Licenses: 📌 Online License Sales Support (Assistance with online fishing licenses and
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