Frequently Asked Questions

Fish Processing

Do you sell fish?

NO! We are a processing facility only, not a wholesaler/retailer. If you are looking to purchase fish or seafood of any kind, please visit www.catalinaop.com (Catalina Offshore Products).

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not required, however strongly suggested. All orders are processed as first come first served. If you are looking to have your catch processed for “Same Day” service without a reservation, we cannot guarantee “Same Day" service.

What is the turnaround time for my fish?

We offer “Same Day” AM Processing as well as Later/Frozen Processing. Later/Frozen Processing can be picked up within 2-3 days. All orders are processed as first come first served. Again...Reservations are strongly encouraged.

How much fish will I get back and how do you package it?

Please refer to our “YIELDS” chart to estimate how much finished product you will get back. The finished product is packaged in 5 mil bags at about 1–1.5 pounds per bag. If you would like special packaging, please let us know and we will gladly accommodate you.

Typical Yields

Fillets – 45% - 50%

Yellowtail – 25% - 30%

Bluefin – 45% - 50%

Yellowfin – 40% - 45%

Wahoo – 45% - 50%

Rock Fish – 32% - 35%

How do I get my fish home? Do I need to bring a cooler?

Yes. Bring a cooler or multiple coolers when picking up your fish. If you forget your cooler or you didn’t bring enough coolers and need more room, we have coolers for sale here at the shop.

Do you have ice?

Yes, we have flake ice and as much as you need.

Can I watch the process?

Of course you can! Inside our lobby we have viewing windows looking straight into our cold cutting room. Watch as long as you would like.

How long can you store my fish in the freezer?

We encourage you to pick up your fish within a few days of processing. However, if you need us to keep your fish for you due to pick up constraints we can arrange longer storage upon request. With the amount of product going in and out of our facility we would appreciate you picking up your order as soon as possible.

Will I get bellies and collars?

All bellies are included with each order at no additional fee and will come with skin on. Collars upon request only at an additional fee.

Do you leave skin on my fish?

All fish is bagged and vacuum sealed without skin unless otherwise requested. Bellies, however, do come with the skin on.

Do you flash freeze my fish?

No. Just like all of the other processors in the county, we have a standard walk-in freezer. Fish is usually frozen within 13-14 hours.

What is the difference between a Sushi Block and a Sushi Bar?

A Sushi Block is the center cut of the top loin. Sushi Blocks can be done with fish over 15 pounds. A Sushi Bar is a Sushi Block broken down into smaller bars, perfect for Sashimi. Bars can only be done with fish 60 pounds or larger. (Sushi Cuts do not affect yield).

Fish Delivery

How much is shipping?

Shipping rates vary with each order. Depending on the weight of the fish after processing, delivery zip code, size of box, and method of shipping. We cannot give quotes for shipping until fish has been processed, frozen and boxed.

How long does shipping take?

The whole process takes about 2-3 weeks. This time includes all processing, packaging, freezing, boxing, arranging the logistics for your shipment and actual shipment time to your destination. All orders are shipped out in order that they are received. If a more expedited schedule is required, please give us a call to see what options are available.

I'm from out of town and leaving on a flight tomorrow. Can you box up my fish for the plane?

YES! We will gladly package up your fish for your flight. Just let us know ahead of time.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to stop by or contact us by one of the methods below.