About

We Move Fish Fast—And We’ve Been Doing It for Generations

For over 60 years, Atlantic Seafood has been the leading distributor of the North Carolina seafood industry. Our roots run deep in the fishing waters of the Atlantic, built on hard work, respect for the ocean, and an unyielding commitment to quality.

1940s
1950s
1960s
1968
Late 1980s-1990s
2000s-Present

1940s

The Beginning

In Hampstead, NC, the commercial fishing industry was booming. Among the dedicated watermen was William Ramp Smith Sr., known as “The General.” His knowledge of the ocean and strong work ethic laid the foundation for a legacy that would span generations.

1950s

The Smith Brothers Take Over

The General’s sons—William Ramp Smith Jr., Joseph Johnson Smith, and Thomas Lorenzo Smith—took what they learned from their father and forged their own path in the fishing industry. Haul seine net fishing became their trade, bringing in red drum, speckled trout, flounder, and more from the Carolina coast.

1960s

A Business is Born

With demand growing, the brothers expanded beyond fishing. They began running their own distribution routes across North and South Carolina, ensuring fresh seafood reached customers faster than ever. By 1962, they officially launched their own seafood dealership in Hampstead, NC.

1968

Atlantic Seafood is Established

What started as a small operation doubled in size, becoming Atlantic Seafood Co. As their reputation grew, so did their ability to move fresh, high-quality seafood at scale.

Late 1980s-1990s

Growth & Change

1983 | A 52,000 cubic foot freezer was installed, ensuring year-round supply under the Atlantic Seafood label.

1986 | Atlantic Seafood acquired Jesse Lea Seafood Co., expanding operations and distribution reach.

Late 1980s-1990s | Leadership transitioned after the passing of William and Joseph, with Thomas and Joseph J. Smith Jr. stepping in to lead.

1999-2001 | The next generation, Jeffery S. Smith and Joseph J. Smith III, joined the company, driving expansion.

2000s-Present

Expansion & Innovation

2008 | A major merger with J.H. Lea & Sons strengthened the company’s operations without any job losses, ensuring sustainable growth.

Today | Atlantic Seafood continues to move fish fast, serving restaurants, grocery chains, and seafood markets across the Carolinas and beyond.

We Are Atlantic Seafood

Quality

We distribute fresh, never-sitting seafood with meticulous care, ensuring our customers receive the best catch.

Efficiency

We prioritize speed and accuracy in every aspect of our operation, providing seafood that is fresh and fast.

Tradition

We’re fishermen first, and we honor our rich family history in the seafood industry by staying true to the practices that have defined us for generations.

Integrity

We build trust through transparent sourcing, reliable service, and honest communication with our customers.

Community

We proudly support local fisheries, create livelihoods for our employees, and invest in the communities we serve.

The Atlantic Seafood Team

Behind every delivery, every fresh catch, and every satisfied customer is a dedicated team. From our expert fishermen to our knowledgeable sales professionals, we take pride in what we do.

Passionate People. Decades of Experience

We’re fishermen first, and we know Atlantic seafood. Whether you need a custom order, a bulk distribution, or industry expertise, we’re here to help.