3 Fresh Copper River Salmon Selections Available at Heinen’s
At Heinen’s, quality is always our top priority – it’s the driving passion behind everything we do. That’s why we’ve partnered with trusted Alaskan fishing partners to source the world’s most coveted, premium wild salmon, Copper River salmon, for our customers. This summer season, you’ll find this unmatched, ethically sourced catch at our stores, fresh from the untamed Copper River in Alaska.
The Copper River winds 300 miles from its glacial headwaters, carving through the Chugach and Wrangell mountains before emptying into the Gulf of Alaska. This river has no dams, mines or municipalities along its banks, providing the perfect environment for three prized salmon species – king, sockeye and coho.
These breed’s journey of over 300 miles upstream against the river’s powerful currents is a feat of incredible endurance, fueled by their abundant fat reserves. It’s these nutrient-rich oils that yield the succulent texture and superior flavor Copper River salmon is known for.
An Artisanal Harvest
You won’t find salmon of this caliber just anywhere. Harvesting the Copper River’s treasured fish is an artisan craft refined over generations of Alaskan fishing families. Operating solo or in pairs aboard compact “bowpicker” boats, a small fleet of independent fishermen meticulously hand-catch each salmon.
From the very moment these fish are pulled from the icy waters, they are treated with uncompromising care and expertise. The salmon are harvested immediately to preserve their clean flavor, then chilled using a precise centuries-old “slush ice” technique that prevents bruising. Finally, they are rushed in small batches to be processed and shipped to stores within hours of harvest – ensuring Heinen’s customers receive fish of unmatched freshness and quality.
Copper River’s commitment to both century-old tradition and modern best practices, along with scientific management by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, allows for a sustainable harvest that will maintain healthy salmon populations for years to come. It’s an integral part of how Heinen’s offers unparalleled salmon selections that are unavailable elsewhere.
Three Distinct Delicacies
Copper River King Salmon
When our first delivery of salmon arrives each May, we celebrate the arrival of the king, or Chinook, variety. This is salmon’s ultimate delicacy, prized for an exceptionally rich omega-3 content and silky texture that melts in your mouth. To treat this fish, simply grill or pan-sear them with just a brush of olive oil, salt and pepper, allowing its natural flavors shine. Then, pair it with:
- Lemon wedges and butter
- Roasted asparagus and garlic
- Light salads with vinaigrette
- Crisp white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc
Copper River Sockeye Salmon
As summer hits full swing, our wild sockeye salmon variety steals the show with its iconic deep ruby hue and robust, full flavor. This variety’s firm texture makes it incredibly versatile for all cooking methods. We love it grilled over cedar planks, or baked and then served:
- With sweet chili lime sauce
- Over a flavorful wild rice pilaf
- Topped with fresh mango salsa
- Paired with a rich Pinot Noir
Copper River Coho Salmon
Finally, our fall harvest brings the arrival of the uniquely large and affordable coho (or silver) salmon. With a milder taste and delicate texture, this variety shines when baked or sautéed, then topped or paired with:
- Mushroom garlic cream sauce
- Roasted root vegetables
- Toasted nuts or herbed breadcrumbs
- Oak-aged Chardonnay
No matter which of our responsibly sourced, sustainably harvested Copper River salmon varieties you choose, you can be assured of an unmatched eating experience. From ocean to plate, we are dedicated to connecting you with the world’s finest, most flavorful fish, only at Heinen’s.
