Newport’s commercial fishing industry brings some of the freshest seafood to market year-round. Each season offers something different, and March marks the start of spring seafood options, with fresh catches available at local docks, seafood markets, and restaurants.
What’s in Season?
Spring signals the arrival of fresh catches, making it an exciting time for seafood lovers. Here’s what’s available:
Dungeness Crab – Still in season, known for its sweet, flaky meat and a local favorite in seafood markets and restaurants.
Lingcod & Rockfish – Popular choices for fresh fish markets and local menus, providing firm, flavorful fillets year round.
Razor Clams – A spring favorite, depending on harvesting conditions and tides.
Oysters – Local oysters make excellent choices for seafood lovers seeking fresh shellfish.
Pink Shrimp – The season begins in April, bringing Oregon’s famous cold-water shrimp to markets and restaurants.
Where to Find the Freshest Seafood
Newport has many opportunities to buy high-quality seafood directly from local sources and many dining options. Here are some options for where to go:
Newport’s Historic Bayfront & Commercial Docks: Some fishing boats sell their fresh catch straight from the docks when available. The Chelsea Rose is a floating seafood market located on the docks. It operates during standard business hours and usually has several options available.
Seafood Markets:
Fish Peddler’s Market – A favorite stop for buying fresh, wild-caught seafood.
South Beach Market - A popular stop offering prepared foods and fresh catches. If you haven't tried candied salmon, this is the place to go.
Local Ocean DockBox – Though not a seafood market, the DockBox is known for high-quality, locally sourced seafood packaged in an easy meal kit.
Restaurants
Local Ocean Seafoods – Dock-to-table dining with a menu that changes based on what’s fresh.
Clearwater Restaurant – Known for its fresh Dungeness crab, halibut, and locally sourced oysters.
Mo’s Seafood & Chowder – A Newport classic famous for its clam chowder.
Tips for Cooking & Enjoying Fresh Seafood at Home
Want to bring Newport’s fresh seafood experience home? Here are some tips:
Best Preparation Methods:Â Grilling, steaming, and pan-searing work well for spring seafood.
Pairing Ideas:Â Fresh seafood pairs beautifully with light salads, seasonal vegetables, and crisp white wines.
Storage & Handling:Â Keep seafood fresh by storing it on ice and consuming it within a day or two of purchase.
Spring brings some of the best seafood of the year to Newport, and there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it, whether buying it fresh, dining out, or cooking at home, come to Newport and get yourself a fresh catch!
Newport’s seafood scene is shaped by its hardworking fishing industry and a community that values fresh, locally caught fish and shellfish. Whether you’re picking up seafood from the docks, visiting a market, or enjoying a restaurant meal, there’s no better time to experience the flavors of the coast. For more recommendations on where to eat and explore, visit DiscoverNewport.com.