Oregon’s commercial fishing industry hit a new economic high in 2025, generating $517 million in income and supporting 10,321 jobs, a notable jump from the previous five-year average.
According to a new industry report, total economic activity tied to harvesting and processing reached $1.1 billion, while onshore deliveries totaled $223.3 million. The numbers underscore the sector’s role as a cornerstone of Oregon’s coastal economy.
“It shows the fishing industry’s significance in Oregon’s blue economy,” said Marcus Hinz of the Oregon Coast Visitors Association. “But this is not an ‘all clear’ when it comes to threats to the industry.”
Hinz noted that commercial fishing also supports tourism, with eco- and culinary-focused travelers drawn to destinations that highlight strong natural resource industries. “Eco- and culinary-oriented travelers are attracted to destinations that demonstrate strong natural resource assets,” he said.
Hans Radtke, Ph.D., who contributed to the report, said 2025 marked a strong year for many multi-fishery participants. “Overall, 2025 was a great year for multi-fishery participants,” Radtke said, citing high beef prices and seafood’s health benefits as factors helping drive demand.
Still, the industry continues to navigate headwinds. Catch variability, volatile markets, climate impacts, and use conflicts- including offshore energy development and telecommunications infrastructure- all add pressure. International trade barriers and tariffs also remain a concern, particularly for export-driven fisheries.
Oregon’s Dungeness crab fishery alone generated $107.5 million in harvest value in 2025, highlighting the importance of access to global markets. At the same time, fishermen are facing rising vessel maintenance costs and fluctuating dock prices.
Even with the challenges, the report points to an industry that remains resilient and adaptable, continuing to support coastal communities while anchoring Oregon’s working waterfront economy.
