Fresh Halibut has traditionally been the first product to reach the market, with frozen inventories typically building around May. However, the past two seasons have deviated from this pattern. In 2025, extremely tight supply conditions led Fresh Halibut to dominate availability for most of the season, while Frozen Halibut offerings remained limited and inconsistent.

Latest catch data is showing just under 500,000 pounds already landed which is a new low for the timing however the fishery started later than in previous seasons. Early season dock price indications are currently hovering in the range of $6.50 to $8.00 per pound - an upward shift from last year’s early season and nearly double the opening levels seen in 2024.



For supply, last year saw a very fast moving and supply constrained market and this year will be the same if not worse, as the IPHC managed Pacific Halibut fishery limit this year for the West Coast of North America are set slightly below 2025 levels but is also the lowest in 102 years, with the TCEY nearly 6 million pounds below 2024 and approximately 12 million pounds below 2022.

Looking ahead, Pacific Halibut is expected to remain a highly supply constrained market throughout the year. This outlook is driven not only by reduced quotas but also by broader pressures, including tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and ongoing disruptions across global seafood markets. At the same time, demand should remain firm as buyers compete for other wild-capture whitefish such as Cod, Pollock, and Haddock - species also facing tighter supply in 2026. Combined with rising fuel and operating costs, these factors are likely to keep pricing above last year’s levels.

Regarding Russian Pacific Halibut, sanctions and ongoing geopolitical tensions have reduced its availability in Western markets. While product continues to move globally, restricted access and supply chain disruptions have tightened already constrained conditions. Despite Russia producing a smaller share (3–4 million pounds annually), this has reduced accessible supply in Western markets, increased reliance on Alaska and Canadian production, and contributed to tighter global whitefish supply overall.

Given these conditions, we recommend securing Pacific Halibut commitments early to ensure consistent supply coverage for the year ahead. It is also prudent to evaluate and plan for suitable substitutions, such as Atlantic Halibut, to maintain flexibility and continuity within seafood programs.



Contact a Tradex Foods representative today to develop a procurement plan.

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