Back to all Sourcing Partners

Building a Better Seafood System

Why we’re expanding our trusted fishing community

    F/V Anna Marie

    I grew up on the deck of my family’s boat, learning the rhythms of the tide and the responsibility that comes with harvesting from the ocean. As a second-generation Alaskan fisherman, I’ve always known that the best seafood starts with respect — for the fish, the waters they come from, and the communities that depend on them. That’s why we built Sitka Seafood Market with a commitment to sourcing only the highest quality seafood from small-boat fishermen who share our values.

    We started in Alaska — not just because it’s home, but because its pristine waters and rigorous sustainability standards set the bar for responsible fishing. Within these well-managed fisheries, we choose to work with small-boat fleets because we believe in the power of supporting independent fishermen. By doing so, we help sustain livelihoods, preserve coastal communities, and ensure the long-term health of our oceans.

    As we explored Alaska for new and unique seafood offerings, we met small-boat fishermen from across the U.S. facing the same challenges we do — mislabeling, seafood fraud, and a lack of traceability from boat to plate. Through networks like the Local Catch Network, we connected with like-minded fishermen who, like us, prioritize quality handling and responsible fisheries management.

    After a rigorous vetting process — including visiting their operations, meeting their families, and sharing meals with their teams — we built more than partnerships; we built a community. These fishermen and processors share our deep commitment to sustainability, traceability, and quality. We feel so confident in them that we’ve integrated some of their products into our subscription boxes.

    No matter where your seafood comes from — Alaska or a responsibly managed U.S. fishery — you can trust that it meets the same high standards we established with our Alaska fleet. We eat, breathe, and live for amazing seafood, and we’re proud to bring you the best, sourced with care and purpose.