Grouper Fishing Ban
Grouper Fishing Ban
by Stuart Altman
The U.S. government’s four month long ban on all Grouper fishing starts January 1st. This closure means that both commercial and recreational fishermen will not be allowed to keep shallow-water grouper - including gag, black, red and yellow fin - that is caught in federal and state Atlantic waters from North Carolina to Key West. The ban also extends into state waters in the Gulf of Mexico.
What does this mean for our industry? Well, first and foremost, it hurts an already financially strapped domestic fishing industry that counts on revenues generated from this desired seafood item. Seafood importers will now look more intensely at Grouper supplies from both South and Central America. This will be passed on to wholesalers, retailers, restaurants, etc. in the form of much higher than normal prices to the end users, who just want to enjoy a nice piece of Grouper fillet every once in awhile.
In the past, high Grouper prices have led to many other firm, flaky, white meat species being passed off as Grouper fillets to restaurants, retailers, fish markets, and eventually, the consumer. The USDC has for the last few years cracked down on the mislabeling of these “Grouper-like” species and many unscrupulous practitioners have been caught, fined, and had their dealer licenses revoked. Major broad line, retail and warehouse club chains have also either removed Grouper from their seafood offerings or asked for proof of the Grouper’s authenticity. This helps every seafood purveyor that does things “by the book” and it allows the consumer to enjoy real Grouper, not a cheaper tasting and inferior quality substitute.
Traditionally, high Grouper prices have also helped to create legitimate markets and subsequent demand for other firm, flaky fillets that can stand on their own merit. Items such as Swai, Ponga, Corvina, and Kingclip are being imported and offered now with more frequency. They have also become widely accepted by many seafood purveyors and their customers are asking for it by name. Having alternatives when traditional species are not available creates value and opportunity in our industry. The next time that Grouper is not available, try one of these new items. You will find that you and your customers will come back for more.