Typically swordfish are caught by by super destructive gill nets and drift nets on boats that are out to sea for at least 30 days at a time, often with slave labor, and I've always abhorred it. But thanks to an experimental hook and line fishery permit and a thrilling movement to ban gill netting and encourage hook and line, rod and reel fishing, we have swordfish that we can feel great about. Photo by Ralph Pace.

The stocks are very healthy and our fishermen follow strict protocols, which means that this is the freshest swordfish you've ever had (caught on a short offshore boat trip as opposed to 30 days in deep water with horrible gear), and it's creating a sustainable swordfish fishery off the California coast. The ultimate goal is to transition out of the egregious drift nets and longlines and adopt this hook and line buoy fishing alternative. Let's encourage these guys!

INFO PAGE: Click for more fishery info!

ORIGIN: Captain Nate Perez, F/V Bear Flag out of Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands

METHOD: Harpoon

RECIPES: Lemon Garlic Swordfish, Mediterranean Grilled Swordfish, Swordfish-Like Steak with Crispy Capers, Grilled Swordfish and End of Season Tomatoes

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