Fishing and seafood have long been central to Brunswick County's identity and North Carolina's broader history. Calabash has even earned the nickname "Seafood Capital of the World." Buying local helps sustain this tradition, supporting the fish houses and restaurants that sell NC seafood. Still, the industry faces real pressure: between 2000 and 2021, North Carolina saw a 41.5% reduction in seafood wholesalers.

This page is meant to inform consumers about opportunities to purchase locally caught, grown, or harvested seafood in North Carolina. Consumers are encouraged to ask fish markets questions about their establishments.

Since 1970, North Carolina Sea Grant has provided research, education, and outreach to serve our entire state. We build more resilient communities and economies, support sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, promote healthy coastal ecosystems, enhance environmental education, and foster workforce development. You can learn more about the North Carolina seafood industry and research around it by visiting their website.