Our story

From one captain’s commitment to excellence

Captain Michael Black built a seafood business on a simple principle: never compromise on quality. His son Jonathan carries that principle forward through Captain Black’s.

Captain Michael Black with his crew on deck
Captain Michael with the crew
A day on the water aboard the Captain Black
A day on the water
Archive photograph of Michael Black in his early fishing years
The early years

The full story

From the sea to your table

Captain Black’s was born from a legacy built on hard work, quality, and a deep respect for the ocean. For decades, Captain Michael Black made his living on the water as a longline fisherman, earning a reputation for bringing in exceptional seafood and never compromising on quality.

Beginning in 1987, he sold fresh seafood directly to customers from a box truck, building lasting relationships through honesty, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to delivering the very best catch. By 1993, Michael had established a full-scale seafood processing operation, supplying premium seafood to customers across the country.

After Michael’s passing in 2021, his son Jonathan Black took the helm with a mission — to carry forward his father’s legacy in a way that families everywhere could enjoy. That vision became Captain Black’s. In 2024, we introduced our line of premium fish dips and seafood products, crafted with the same dedication to quality that defined his father’s career.

“Captain Black’s represents more than a family name. It’s a promise that every product bearing the Captain Black’s label is rooted in a tradition of quality, craftsmanship, and pride.”

Portrait of Captain Michael Black

In memory

Captain Michael Black

A seasoned and forward-thinking longline fisherman, Michael Black built his reputation one catch at a time. He believed that the best seafood deserved to reach the best tables — and he never wavered from that belief.

From the open ocean to a single box truck, and eventually to a nationwide operation, Michael’s journey was defined by integrity, craftsmanship, and an unbreakable work ethic.

1987 – 2021 · A legacy worth sharing.

Who we are

Our mission & values

Mission

From captain to community, we deliver the highest quality products, honoring fishermen and preserving our oceans’ legacy for future generations.

Vision

To be the leading choice for premium, flavorful seafood that brings coastal freshness to every table, inspiring moments of connection and culinary delight.

Core values

Lead with purpose. Deliver excellence. Ensure a timeless legacy through visionary ideas and responsible actions.

The fleet

The Captain Black vessel

Our flagship vessel represents the living connection between the ocean and your table.

The Captain Black vessel under way at sea
Under way
The Captain Black vessel tied up at the dock
Dockside

Our promise

Commitment to excellence

100% all-natural

No chemicals, gases, or artificial powders — ever.

Zero fillers

You get only the highest-quality seafood in every bite.

Gluten-free

Every product is gluten-free and keto-friendly.

Kosher available

Select products can be Kosher certified on request.

Taste the difference

Explore the full range of fish dips, snack packs, smoked fish, tray packs and caviar.

Explore products