Massey Fish Co. Brings Wild-Caught Fish to Chicago
We all have our grocery staples—a go-to cereal, a particular flavor of sparkling water, a bag of spinach that races the clock in the back of the produce drawer. In our household, we keep those basics on hand, but we also have a different kind of essential: our farmers market favorites. And one of the most beloved? The smoked whitefish pâté from Massey Fish Company via Jake’s Country Meats.
Based in St. Ignace, Michigan, Massey Fish Company has been harvesting wild-caught fish from the Straits of Mackinac for six generations. That’s over a century of dedication to the waters that connect the Upper and Lower Peninsulas and feed into the heart of the Great Lakes. Their offerings include a range of freshwater species—whitefish, lake trout, walleye, salmon, perch, and smelt—carefully caught, cleaned, and prepared using time-honored techniques and a deep respect for the environment.
While best known for their smoked fillets and spreads, Massey’s product line goes far beyond the basics. Think laker sausage, smoked pâtés, caviar, and even dog treats—all part of their mission to make the most of every wild-caught fish. The commitment to whole-animal utilization is more than good business. It’s a reflection of Massey’s sustainable ethos and deep connection to place.
In addition to their Michigan-based distribution, Massey ships throughout the Midwest and East Coast, making their products accessible far beyond the docks of St. Ignace. And for those of us in Chicago, we’re especially lucky. Their whitefish pâté, smoked fillets, and more can be found year-round at some of the city’s premier farmers markets, including Green City Market and Logan Square Farmers Market.
