Best Time to Enjoy Different Seafood Varieties

Is there a right time to enjoy seafood? The answer, unambiguously, is yes! While some fish are available year-round, others are more succulent and affordable during specific seasons. In this blog, we unravel the mysteries of the seasonal seafood calendar. Offering tips on how to enjoy premium quality seafood at the best times throughout the year, we prepare your taste buds for a year of tasty, varied, and sustainable seafood dishes!

Why the Season Matters

Like fruits and vegetables, seasons play a vital role in the quality and taste of seafood. Most species of fish and shellfish have specific times of the year when they peak in taste and availability, and there’s a reason for this. Like many other creatures, fish migrate throughout the year, moving to different locations in response to changing temperatures and food availability.

When it comes to your favourite seafood, understanding the seasons allows you to enjoy dishes at their most flavourful. So when is the best time to eat seafood? Let’s take a look.

Seafood Seasons: A Calendar for your Palate

Surrounded by the bounty of the Pacific and Indian oceans, Australia boasts some of the most delectable seafood selections. But when is the best time to indulge in these aquatic delights? Here’s your seasonal guide.

Autumn (March-May):

Autumn in Australia is a prime time for seafood enthusiasts.

• Barramundi: These are at their peak during these months, giving you a chance to taste this fish when it’s most fresh and flavourful.
• Spanish Mackerel: With the season starting from December, the Spanish Mackerel continues to be a treat throughout these months.
• Yellowfin Tuna: This delicacy is also best savoured from October through March, making it a must-try in the late autumn season.

Winter (June-August):

Winter might seem like a quiet period, but there’s no shortage of fish to enjoy.

• Barracuda: Although January heralds the beginning of its peak season, Barracuda remains a delightful choice through to December, making it a favourite during the colder months.
• Australian Salmon: This unique fish, which stands apart from the commonly known Atlantic Salmon, offers a robust taste especially when properly handled. With abundant supply coming from South Australia, Tasmania, and Southern Victoria, it is a winter staple.
• Longfin Eel: Originating from the tropical waters off New Caledonia, these eels migrate to Australia’s East coast. Offering a rich and nuanced meat, they are perfect for heartier dishes that combat the winter chill.
• Sea Mullet: Esteemed by those in the know for thousands of years, Mullet’s appeal lies in its omega-3 rich fat content. Whether grilled, roasted, or barbecued to perfection, this fish is both a treat for the palate and the wallet, especially during winter.
• King Threadfin Salmon: As supply begins to increase during the winter months, this fish becomes a noteworthy alternative to the well-loved Barramundi. With a sweet flavour profile courtesy of its varied diet, it provides versatility in winter cooking from soups to kebabs.
• Mussels: As winter approaches, while many opt for hearty soups and red meats, it’s the prime time to enjoy Australian mussels. These shellfish are notably sweet, soft, and juicy during the colder months, making them an ideal centerpiece for your winter dishes.

Spring (September-November):

As flowers bloom, the waters teem with life, bringing forth a variety of fish best enjoyed in this season.

• Mahi-Mahi: Starting from September, these are in prime condition for consumption throughout the start of summer.
• Pink Snapper: These bite well, especially during the spring months, providing a fresh and tasty option for seafood lovers.
• Black Marlin: October marks the start of the best window to enjoy Black Marlin, lasting till the end of the year.
• Giant Trevally: Come October, and these become the go-to choice for many until the year’s end.
• Atlantic Salmon: Available throughout the year with its peak season running from October to mid-March. Predominantly farmed in south-eastern Tasmania, there are also select inland freshwater farms in Victoria that primarily cater to roe supply.

Summer (December-February):

The warmth of the Australian summer brings its own set of delectable fish options.

• Blue Marlin: Summer months make for the best time to taste the active Blue Marlin.
• Tiger Flathead: A native to Australia, this wild-caught fish enjoys its peak between December and February. With its slightly sweet flavour, low oiliness, and medium-textured flesh, Tiger Flathead is best enjoyed baked in banana leaves or battered for classic fish and chips.
• Banded Morwong: Also known as Red Moki in New Zealand, this fish, often found around Tasmania, comes with striking red and white stripes.

A Year-Round Affair: Seafood Anytime

While our seasonal seafood calendar provides a fantastic guideline for peak seafood seasons, it’s important to note that many seafood varieties are available year-round. High-quality seafood farming has made it possible to enjoy species like pacific salmon and trout no matter the season.

Easy Seasonal Seafood Recipes to Try

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these three simple, season-inspired seafood recipes will have you savouring the catch of the day all year long.

1. Spring Salmon Salad with Fresh Berries

2. Summer Shrimp and Scallop Pasta

3. Winter Clam Chowder

There you have it, simple yet delicious seafood dishes you can cook and share with your loved ones. Remember, buying and cooking with seafood that’s in season ensures a tasty dish and supports sustainable practices.

The Bottom Line

Seafood seasonality is about more than just availability. It also affects the quality, taste, and sustainability of our seafood. By understanding the seasons, you’re not just making more informed choices about what to cook and when, but you’re also supporting a more sustainable seafood industry.

So next time you plan a seafood feast, remember: seafood isn’t just for summer; it’s a year-round affair! Whether you’re craving shrimp in the spring or lobster in the summer, there’s always a way to satisfy your seafood cravings while supporting sustainable and premium quality seafood. Satisfy your seafood cravings with fresh ocean produce from Manettas Seafood Market, Australia’s trusted online seafood marketplace.