RECAP: Feast of the Local Fishes
Saturday, February 14th, 2026 — Garibaldi Boathouse, Garibaldi, OR
Another Perfect Afternoon at the Historic Boathouse
This year marked the third Feast of the Local Fishes, where once again we gathered at the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Boathouse for an afternoon showing off the best of the Tillamook Coast. This particular day greeted us with calm water, balmy air, and clear skies - totally opposite to the raining-sideways we’ve experienced in past years.
Mona and Jaret of Tournant to teamed up with Alanna of Shifting Tides (and Winter Waters co-founder) for another celebration of sea-to-table connection.
Guests arrived to sunshine spilling across the deck and the hum of anticipation inside the historic space. Barb of Cooper Mountain Vineyards once again poured thoughtfully selected wines, setting the tone for an evening rooted in regional flavor.
Where attendees would typically wander around the boathouse, we noticed a big chance in energy as almost everyone was outside on the deck enjoying their wine and bites, overlooking the Tillamook Bay in this historic building, while trays of appetizers made their way through the crowd. The Tournant team delivered another inspired lineup:
Silky smoked salmon chowder
Bright aquachile mussels layered with citrus and heat
A tuna gorgous Tuna Tataki highlighting Oregon-caught Albacore tuna
Fresh Hama Hama oysters
Pink shrimp tostadas that tasted like summer on a tortilla
Dockside Learning Under Calm Skies
With weather too good to stay indoors, we took our group right on the deck. Alanna led an educational conversation about Oregon’s Dungeness crab fishery, revisiting the fundamentals while sharing new insights and stories from fishermen at recent events like Newport Blue Line.
We explored what continues to set Oregon apart: strong management practices, strict quality standards, and gear innovations that reduce environmental impact. We discussed season timing, testing protocols, and how both commercial and recreational harvesters play a role in sustaining the fishery.
And of course, no gathering at the boathouse would feel complete without pulling crab pots. Pre-set earlier in the day, the pots gave our guests a hands-on moment of anticipation where each group hoped their pot would be the one with a keeper crab! And even when only one pot out of all had a keeper, guests were so thrilled at the experience to learn and be a part of the process. Bonus: we caught an invasive 5-pointed European Green Crab, cooked it up, and shared it with the group. Learn more about these pesky invaders HERE.
The Return to the Table
Inside, the Tournant team was once again orchestrating a feast. Steam curled from pots as crabs were boiled, the sound of clinking clams in Jaret’s massive paella pan, with Cooper Mountain wines poured over the top for steamed perfection. The scent alone drew everyone back towards the doors and around the tables.
Long tables were set with:
A dulse seaweed Caesar salad using Oregon Seaweed, grown in Garibaldi and Bandon
Toasty bread made by the Tournant team
Steamed clams with fregola
A whole Dungeness crab for each person!
The cracking of shells, passing of plates, and easy laughter filled the room. This day always carries such a special energy, shaped by maritime history, fresh stories, and a community eager to reconnect with the coast and each other.
Another successful day at the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Boathouse!! Thanks to the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association for sponsoring this event. Thank you Destiny Dudley of King Tide Events for your help on site.
