Seattle Fish Company of New Mexico

Species Name

Source

Bluenose Sea Bass is primarily found off the New Zealand and Australian coasts. They are most abundant in coldwater areas with rocky terrain. Most of the Bluenose Sea Bass consumed in the US is imported from the New Zealand fisheries.

Seasonality

Due to strict quota management monitored by the Quota Management System, only a specific amount of Bluenose Sea Bass can be harvested each year. This number can be reached in a day’s time, or spread out evenly throughout the year depending on how the individual fisheries choose to manage the process.

Fishing Method

Bluenose Sea Bass is a wild capture fishery, by longlines and handlines during quota fisheries. Some Bluenose Sea Bass by-catch is allowed during other fisheries. Availability can be spotty.

Flavor

Bluenose has a succulent, moist flavor, similar to grouper. Its flavor is more pronounced than other Sea Bass species.

Dietary Information

Bluenose Sea Bass has lean meat, making it a wise choice for health-conscious consumers.
Serving Size per 3.5 oz (100 g) raw edible portion:
Calories 97
Total Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 41 mg
Protein 18 g
Iron 0.3 mg
Sodium 68 mg
Omega-3 0.5 g.

Appearance

When cooked, Bluenose Sea Bass is firm and opaque white.

Form

Bluenose Sea Bass is available fresh and frozen, headed and gutted.

Preparation

Bluenose Sea Bass can be steamed, sautéed, broiled, fried or baked. In the United States, Bluenose Sea Bass is often prepared the same way as Chilean Sea Bass.

Substitution

Bluenose Sea Bass is compared to grouper in both appearance and taste.

Handling

Bluenose Sea Bass should be refrigerated at 30-34 degrees F. Whole fish should be surrounded with fish ice in a perforated pan which allows any water to drain away from the product for maximum shelf life.  Never directly ice a Bluenose Sea Bass fillet. Filleted product should be stored in a sealed plastic container and surrounded with ice.

Sizes and Cuts

An average Bluenose Sea Bass weighs seven pounds and is two feet in length, but can weigh over 100 pounds and grow to five feet long. Fish in the 5-20 pound range are considered best in eating quality.

Pricing Scale

Bluenose Sea Bass is generally less expensive than any other Sea Bass.
Due to market and currency fluctuations, please contact your Seattle Fish Company of New Mexico associate for up-to-date market information and current pricing information.

Shelf Life

Fresh whole Bluenose Sea Bass which has been handled and stored properly should retain optimum quality for 5-7 days. Once filleted product should be used in 3-4 days.  Frozen can be commercially stored for up to one year.