J.M. Moseley, founder of Surf City Seafood, was born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and spent much of his childhood surfing, fishing, and developing a lifelong connection to the seafood industry. Those early years on the coast helped shape not only his lifestyle, but also the passion and experience he has carried with him for more than 30 years in the business.

After briefly attending Asheville School, J.M. returned to Surf City to continue building his future in the seafood industry. He later attended the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English. Over the decades, he has built a strong reputation through hard work, industry knowledge, and a commitment to quality.

After remarrying, J.M. and his wife, Ashley, decided to move back to Asheville for a change of scenery, a different pace of life, and the opportunity to build something together for the community. Their shared vision for opening a seafood market in Asheville reflects both J.M.’s decades of industry experience and Ashley’s important role as a key part of the business’s future.

His son, Montgomery, helps support the family business by overseeing restaurant operations at home, where sustainable seafood remains a central focus, while J.M. and Ashley concentrate on building and running the market in Asheville.