Zachary Rypysc

Zach Rypysc began his fishing career at age 12, working on charter boats in Santa Barbara. He went on to spend eight years in Alaska’s commercial fisheries, targeting black cod, halibut, and salmon. After the collapse of the black cod market, Zach relocated from Santa Cruz to San Diego in search of more stable opportunities, better weather, and greater species diversity. Now working in Southern California, Zach has experienced firsthand the challenges independent fishermen face when competing with larger operations. He encourages younger fishermen entering the industry to stay adaptable, understand their markets, and focus on building direct relationships with buyers. Guided by a simple philosophy that quality and sustainability are proportional, Zach believes that prioritizing one inherently protects the other — a mindset that shapes both his fishing practices and his approach to the industry's future.