Want fresh and quality fish on the dinner table? Look no farther than the recently opened Fishermen’s Co-op across the Feng Hua Store in San Jose.
Officially known as the Northern Marianas Fishermen’s Marketing Association, the Fishermen’s Co-op is a cooperative among more than 20 local fishermen who drop off their catch daily at the establishment, which the latter then sells to consumers.
Joanne Camacho, the store’s administrative assistant, said they have had better-than-expected sales since they opened last May 19, with customers appreciating the co-op’s clean and air-conditioned establishment.
What surprises their customers the most is that prices at the co-op are competitive, if not downright cheaper, than the prices of roadside fish stalls around the island, she said.
Felix Sasamoto, one of the islands’ premier spearfishermen and is involved in the co-op, said that what makes them stand out is the quality and freshness of the seafood they sell.
Proof of this is the co-op’s well-sanitized butchering room, where staff Lino Aichi plies his craft.
Sasamoto said the co-op primarily sells deep bottom and reef fish like onaga, gindai, ehu, paka-paka, parrot fish, and hangon.
As a service to customers, Sasamoto said the co-op can fillet and clean the fish they buy on the spot free of charge. They can also vacuum-pack the fish for customers who are planning to send it to off-island relatives pining for local seafood.
Aside from whole and filleted fish, customers can also choose from a wide array of fish steaks readily displayed at the co-op’s counter, said Richard Seman Jr.
They also sell delectable snack-size sashimi and poki, which Camacho said have become absolute favorites since they opened last month. The co-op also sells poki or sashimi by the tray but customers must call in advance to reserve.
Only more than month in business, the Fishermen’s Co-op is already looking at putting several tables and chairs inside the store so customers can enjoy their sashimi and poki instantly.
Sasamoto also said there are plans to sell spearfishing gear inside the establishment, which will blend in nicely with the fisherman theme of the Fishermen’s Co-op.
2006 Saipan Tribune