Did you know… that October is National Seafood Month?
It’s October, and with it comes a great reason to enjoy some local seafood. It’s National Seafood Month, and there’s no better time to explore the delicious options right here in Ventura County.
A Leader in Sustainable Seafood
Here’s something you might not know: the United States is actually recognized as a global leader in sustainable seafood, covering both wild-caught and farmed species. It’s nice to know we’re doing our part for the oceans, right?
The Story Behind Your Seafood
Have you ever noticed those QR codes on store-bought seafood? They’re actually pretty interesting. If you scan one, you can trace information about where your seafood was caught, the name of the boat, and even the name of the fisher. Some even provide recipes! It’s a great way to connect with your food’s journey from sea to plate.
Celebrating Seafood Month Locally
Why not celebrate Seafood Month with some local flavor? There are several ways to do that:
- Visit the Fishermen’s Market at Ventura Harbor. The Saturday Fishermen’s Market is a great place to start. It’s open from 6am to 11am, and you can pick your catch right there on the dockside. It doesn’t get much fresher than that.
- Check Out Our Local Fish Markets. We’re lucky to have some excellent fish markets in the area. Places such as Ocean Pride in Ventura, Ideal Seafood in Ojai, Fresh Fish Fanatics in Oxnard, and Wild Local Seafood at the Ventura Harbor all offer a wide selection of locally harvested seafood. The staff at these places really know their stuff – they can tell you about the products and even suggest cooking options.
- Dine with a View. If you’re in the mood to let someone else do the cooking, why not enjoy some seafood with ocean views? Both Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands Harbor have restaurants that serve up some of the best seafood and clam chowder in the county.
- Catch Your Own. For the more adventurous, there’s always the option to catch your own dinner. You could book a trip with one of the local sportfishing companies like Ventura Harbor Sportfishing or Channel Islands Sportfishing. Or, if you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, you could always grab a pole and head to the Historic Ventura Pier.
Whether you’re buying from a local market, dining out, or trying your luck with a fishing rod, October is a great time to appreciate the seafood our local waters have to offer. Why not use this month as an excuse to try something new or revisit an old favorite?
