Welcome to Westport
- Valerie Phillips
- Pole and line, trollines
- Partner since 2024
- Westport, USA
On the West Coast of the U.S., there’s a vibrant traditional fishery for albacore tuna. One of the roughly 65 fishermen here is Valerie. She’s at the helm of the Aqua Leo, the boat she proudly took over from her father. Together with her husband and two crew members, she sets out in search of the finest albacore tuna. But her efforts go beyond the water: as a representative of the American Albacore Fishing Association (AAFA), she is a passionate advocate for sustainable hook-and-line fisheries in the U.S.
Using pole and line, Valerie and her team catch each tuna one by one. If the tuna aren’t biting on the rods, she switches to trolling lines—hooks trailing artificial lures through the water. Once the boat sets off and the tuna begin to hunt, she reels them in—again, one by one. Onboard, she has a collection of specially colored and shaped lures, which she rotates depending on the day, the weather, and the behavior of the fish. How does she know which to use? That’s the best-kept secret of an experienced fisher!
Albacore, also known as white tuna, is prized for its rich flavor. And the tuna caught by these fishermen is legendary. Award-winning and loved by connoisseurs across America, our cans have taken home multiple honors!
Valerie dreams of passing on her 'legacy' to her daughter. Occasionally, she joins her on board, where Valerie teaches her the ins and outs of the trade. This way, she not only keeps the tradition alive but also ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the finest albacore tuna!
Together with her husband, she sails on the boat she proudly took over from her father, in search of the finest albacore tuna. As captain, she leads her small crew, but her mission doesn't end there. Valerie also represents the American Albacore Fishing Association (AAFA), where she passionately advocates for sustainable pole-and-line fisheries in the U.S.
Albacore tuna isn’t just delicious, it’s incredibly nutritious too. Naturally low in saturated fat, this premium tuna is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are known to support brain function, heart health, and a strong circulatory system. Albacore is also protein-packed, offering 25–29 grams of protein per 100 grams. Whether you’re aiming to build muscle, recover after a workout, or simply boost your protein intake, albacore tuna is a smart choice. Best of all, albacore tuna is listed as a “Good Choice” by the FDA, making it both a healthy and responsible option for your plate. Additionally, albacore tuna is packed with protein, offering 25-29 grams per 100 grams. It's the perfect addition to your meal if you want to maintain muscle or need a protein boost!
Albacore tuna is packed with protein—25 to 29 grams per 100 grams! It’s the perfect addition to your meal if you want to maintain muscle tissue or need a protein boost. Looking for inspiration? Check out our recipe page!
Due to environmental pollution, there is indeed mercury in our oceans, and as a result, it can be found in albacore tuna as well. Since albacore tuna is slightly larger, can live longer, and is higher in the food chain than skipjack tuna, it tends to accumulate more mercury. While skipjack tuna may contain around 0.1-0.2 mg/kg of mercury, albacore typically contains about 0.3-0.5 mg/kg. Fortunately, this is still well below the legal limit of 1.0 mg/kg. The tuna species Bigeye and Bluefin are even larger and can therefore contain more mercury.
Albacore tuna, also known as white tuna, holds a unique position among tuna species. It is larger than skipjack, but smaller than species like yellowfin or bluefin tuna. The meat is light pink, which is why it’s called "white" tuna, and it has a soft texture with a mild, refined flavor. Perfect for those who enjoy subtle tastes!
We source our albacore tuna from two different fishing areas. For the tuna sold in the USA we work with Valerie and her team. They head out off the west coast of the US, in the northeastern part of the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of California and Oregon.
