The closure of this year's West Coast salmon season has stimulated retailer interest in local Pacific albacore tuna.
According to the Western Fishboat Owners Association, a nonprofit representing about 400 albacore fishing vessels, albacore fishermen and distributors in Washington, Oregon and California are preparing to meet increased domestic demand for toll-caught albacore ahead of this year's fishing season.
The increased demand comes as the WFOA is preparing to roll out a national branding campaign for "Wild Pacific Albacore" targeting retailers, foodservice professionals and consumers. The campaign includes the May 17 launch of the WFOA Web site.
Pacific Albacore is rated as a "Best Choice" by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program.
