While there is no requirement to hire a seller’s representative -- you may represent the fish yourself, or even leave it unrepresented -- nearly all boats hire a representative to watch over their fish from the moment it arrives at the Portland Fish Exchange until it is all sold.  We act as your on-site agent, resolving any cull, weight, or payment issues, and ensuring your fish moves into the marketplace, either on or off the Exchange.  

Fish remains the property of the boat as long as it is unsold. Exchange buyers are not "obligated" to buy fish, nor are you "obligated" to sell it to them. Fish can be sold outside of the Exchange either because it receives no bid, or because I do not feel you are being offered a reasonable price for your product. If fish does not sell on the Exchange it is solely the responsibility of the boat, and one of the important functions performed by a seller’s representative is assuming that responsibility so that you don’t have to worry about it.