Fresh from the Gulf: April’s Best Catch is at Piggly Wiggly Birmingham

Spring in Alabama isn’t just about warmer weather and blooming dogwoods — it’s also peak season for some of the freshest, most flavorful seafood the Gulf Coast has to offer. At Piggly Wiggly Birmingham, we’re proud to bring that seasonal bounty straight from the Gulf waters to your neighborhood store. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, searing a fresh catch in your kitchen, or trying your hand at a classic Southern seafood dish, April is the perfect time to explore the rich variety of Gulf seafood now in season.

And you’re not alone in seeking out local, responsibly sourced seafood — 73% of shoppers say sustainability and local sourcing influence their food choices — and it’s easy to see why. Gulf seafood is a delicious way to support local fishing communities, enjoy health-conscious meals, and connect with Southern coastal traditions.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s fresh this season and how #thepigbham is your go-to source for Alabama Gulf seafood.

Seafood and meat display case at Piggly Wiggly Birmingham showcasing fresh crab legs, shrimp, fish fillets, and packaged meat — Explore premium selections at River Run’s seafood department inside Piggly Wiggly Birmingham—featuring fresh-caught crab legs, shrimp, and expertly prepared fillets, all ready for your next meal.

Why Gulf Seafood? Fresh, Local, and Full of Flavor

There’s something special about Gulf seafood — especially when it’s fresh, local, and expertly handled. Here’s why seafood lovers and health-conscious home cooks alike are reaching for these regional favorites:

Freshness: Gulf seafood travels a shorter distance from boat to plate, which means it arrives fresher at your local store — often within a day or two of being caught.
Local Support: Buying Gulf seafood supports the hardworking men and women of Alabama’s fishing communities. As one local fisherman put it, “When you buy local, you’re not just getting a better product — you’re helping keep our traditions alive.”
Health Benefits: Packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, Gulf fish are an excellent choice for balanced, nutritious meals.
Flavor Variety: From sweet and delicate Blue Crab to rich, meaty Red Drum, the Gulf’s bounty offers a world of flavor for every palate and prep style.

More and more shoppers are turning to seafood as one of the top proteins for healthy eating — and with good reason. It’s light, satisfying, and fits beautifully into any meal plan.

Close-up of fresh salmon fillets and white fish fillets on display in the seafood department at Piggly Wiggly Birmingham — Sourced for freshness and flavor, these salmon and white fish fillets from River Run’s seafood department at Piggly Wiggly Birmingham are ideal for healthy, home-cooked meals.

What’s In Season: Gulf Seafood Guide (April Edition)

Looking to stock your kitchen with the best the Gulf has to offer? Here’s a handy guide to April’s top seafood picks — all available at Piggly Wiggly Birmingham. Look for our “Now in Season” signs in-store!

🔥 Great for Grilling

Amberjack – Firm and meaty; excellent for skewers or steaks.
Cobia – Mild and buttery; fantastic grilled with herbs and lemon.
Mackerel (King & Spanish) – Rich and oily; try with citrus marinades.
Tuna – Bold and steak-like; sear for sushi-style dishes.
Wahoo – Lean and fast-cooking; great with spicy rubs.
Red Drum – Slightly sweet with a firm texture; perfect for blackening.

🍤 Southern Favorites

Blue Crab – Sweet, succulent meat; ideal for crab cakes or dips.
Seatrout – Flaky and mild; try pan-fried or baked.
Mullet – Strong flavor; delicious smoked or fried.
Croaker – Mild and small; great for classic Alabama-style frying.
Sheepshead – Slightly sweet; tasty grilled or baked whole.

💰 Budget-Friendly Picks

Whiting – Delicate texture; easy to pan-fry.
Mullet – Economical and flavorful; excellent smoked.
Croaker – Small but tasty; perfect for family fish fries.

🍽️ Gourmet Options

Pompano – Delicate and buttery; a chef’s favorite.
Triggerfish – Sweet, lobster-like flavor; delicious sautéed.
Lionfish – Light, flaky white meat; becoming a sought-after delicacy.

🔄 Versatile Picks

Oysters – Raw, baked, grilled — the possibilities are endless.
Shark – Mild and meaty; best grilled or broiled.
Black Drum – Similar to Red Drum; good for stews or tacos.
Porgy (Sea Bream) – Sweet and tender; ideal for whole roasting.
Seatrout – Versatile and easy to cook in many styles.

For more information on species flavor profiles and preparation tips, check out NOAA’s Gulf Seafood Guide and Alabama Gulf Seafood.

How Piggly Wiggly Birmingham Brings It Home

At Piggly Wiggly Birmingham, fresh and local isn’t just a promise — it’s a tradition. Our seafood counters are stocked with seasonal Gulf catch, and our expert butchers are always on hand to offer advice, prep tips, or help you choose the perfect fish for your meal.

Here’s how we make it easy to bring the Gulf to your kitchen:

🐟 Fresh Arrivals Daily – We work with trusted regional suppliers to get seafood from the Gulf to our stores quickly and carefully.
👨‍🍳 Your Butcher Knows Best – Need help choosing between Cobia and Triggerfish? Want to know how to cook Shark or sear Tuna? Just ask — our team is here to help.
🛍️ Seafood Spotlight Displays – Look for our featured seafood of the week, complete with recipe ideas and prep suggestions.
💰 Weekly Deals + The Pig Bham App – Keep an eye on our weekly ad and download The Pig Bham app for up-to-the-minute specials and seasonal recipes.

Not every grocery store in Birmingham offers the depth and variety of Alabama Gulf seafood you’ll find at The Pig — and we’re proud to serve our community with freshness you can taste.

Tips for Every Type of Seafood Shopper

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or trying seafood for the first time, there’s something for everyone at the seafood counter:

👩‍🍳 For the Home Cook

Try simple prep methods like:

Grilling Cobia or Wahoo with citrus and herbs.
Baking Seatrout with butter and breadcrumbs.
Searing Tuna with a sesame crust for a restaurant-quality dish at home.

🥗 For Health-Conscious Shoppers

Gulf seafood is full of lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3s. Go light with:

Baked Amberjack and steamed veggies.
Grilled Mackerel tacos with fresh slaw.
Steamed oysters with lemon and garlic.

💵 For Budget-Friendly Meals

Looking for fresh flavor under $10?

Mullet and Croaker are perfect for classic fish fries.
Whiting fillets make great weeknight dinners with simple sides.

🍤 For Lovers of Southern Tradition

Bring back the classics:

Fried Seatrout and hushpuppies.
Creamy Blue Crab dip.
Smoked Mullet served with white bread and pickles.

And here’s a fun fact: According to Google Trends, searches for “Gulf caught” and “locally sourced” seafood see a 20% boost in engagement during spring — showing that now’s the perfect time to bring the Gulf home.

From Coast to Counter — It’s Seafood Season at The Pig

Spring is a celebration of freshness, and nowhere is that more true than in our seafood section. April brings an incredible variety of flavorful, in-season Gulf seafood, and Piggly Wiggly Birmingham is proud to connect you with the best of it — from the boats off Alabama’s coastline to your dinner table.

By choosing local seafood, you’re not just enjoying superior flavor. You’re supporting coastal communities, embracing Southern tradition, and making healthy choices for your family.