Grand Rapids Entrepreneur Launched Regional Tinned Fish
A new company is highlighting Great Lakes fish in retail stores nationwide.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Organic Food
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In November 2024, Marissa Fellows launched Great Lakes Tinned Fish, a company that sources cold smoked whitefish from the Great Lakes region. The brand has since scaled to reach 300 stores across 35 states, including placements in 45 Whole Foods locations.
Why it matters
The company aims to spotlight regional flavors while supporting sustainable commercial fisheries in Michigan and Wisconsin. This expansion reflects a growing interest in sourcing seafood from localized, inland water systems.
The company has produced 70,000 cans of cold smoked whitefish since its launch, with products now available in 300 retail stores nationwide. It remains unclear how future specialty retail and restaurant partnerships will affect regional stock availability.
The players
Marissa Fellows
The founder of Great Lakes Tinned Fish who aims to promote regional aquatic flavors and support local commercial fisheries.
Whole Foods
A national organic and natural foods grocery chain that currently stocks the company's smoked whitefish in 45 of its retail locations.
The details
Great Lakes Tinned Fish sources whitefish from fisheries in Michigan and Wisconsin, including locations in Munising and Mackinaw City. The raw catch is sent to a Canadian cannery for processing into three flavors: original, garlic and shallot, and lemon and dill. Finished goods are then shipped to a central warehouse in Chicago to manage nationwide distribution.
Timeline
Marissa Fellows launched Great Lakes Tinned Fish in November 2024.
The company sold out of its products three times during the past year.
The article reporting on the company's growth was published on October 13, 2026.
Health Landscape
The rise of Great Lakes Tinned Fish aligns with the 2.5% year-over-year growth in tinned fish social posts. This development marks a shift toward regionalizing a niche product category that is seeing increased popularity across the country.
If you are interested in incorporating more cold smoked whitefish into your diet, you can check availability at local grocery retailers or specialty shops. Consult with your doctor if you have specific dietary concerns regarding sodium content or fish consumption guidelines.
The takeaway
The growth of this regional company highlights the increasing consumer interest in traceable, locally sourced seafood products. Readers interested in sustainability can check for labels identifying the specific fishery origin of their seafood products when shopping for tinned items.
Further reading
For more on sustainably sourced pantry staples, visit our guide on Organic Food.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOODTV.
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Do you prioritize buying food products sourced specifically from your own local region?
