Surprised this morning at my local HEB....

Copper River salmon, obviously in substantial availability, previously seen in this neck of the woods only at Whole foods (Austin) and HEB's "Central Market" upscale, up-price outlets (Austin, Houston, San Antonio that I know of) and by repute Costco (which we've none of here in the sticks, ACT).

And at $12.95 per pound, at that. Gorged on it for dinner, pan broiled in lightly oiled cast iron, super heated, finished with a bit of butter and served with a lemon wedge, hardly needed. My Jack Russells had to fight me for the crisp skin (intense flavor, and almost duck-breast fat).

One forgets just how good some infrequently encountered fish can be, especially the flavor when prepared under the "Less is best" school of prep & seasonings, etc. At that price, I'm of a mood to run back to the store for more. Probably taste as good tomorrow, too.... (and fresh Sockeye fileted halves were $7.97lb, probably a better value, but not as rare).