Alaska Pollock Season Wrap-up: Supply Tightens, Prices Rise

The 2025 B-season harvest is nearly complete, and PBO fillet shortages are expected to persist into early 2026.

Catch Overview

As of late October 2025, the Alaska pollock B-season has effectively ended. Although total annual output is likely to exceed last year’s volume, roughly 32,000 metric tons of quota remain unharvested. Fish size and yield are favorable, yet supply-side pressure is pronounced.

Drivers of the Supply Gap

• Weather : Frequent autumn storms compressed the fishing window into late October.

• Ecological Avoidance : Strict regulations to avoid mixing with herring and salmon limited fishing areas.

• Production Contraction : Early plant closures further constrained processing capacity.

Market Outlook

Industry analysts confirm that the tight supply of PBO fillets is now a certainty. This imbalance is expected to continue through the first quarter of 2026. Buyers are advised to secure their supplies early. As a major importing country, China may experience more pronounced price pressures upon arrival.

Market Advisory 📈

Supply Tightening: PBO fillet shortages are expected to persist into early 2026.

Price Pressure: Significant upward pressure on prices, particularly for Chinese importers.

Strategic Move: Early procurement is strongly recommended to mitigate risks.