It’s not often that people living in a homeless shelter get to dine on fresh-from-the-sea yellowfin tuna, given its market price of more than $20 per pound.

But thanks to Tustin City Councilman Al Murray’s love for fishing – and his knack for reeling in more than his own family could eat – the 242 residents at the Orange County Rescue Mission can enjoy an entree normally associated with expensive restaurants.

“It’s the opposite of what we’re used to,” said Jim Palmer, president of the Rescue Mission. “Our food donations are usually things from the cupboard like canned beans.”

For decades, Murray, 60, has enjoyed fishing trips both short and lengthy.

“My dad taught me how to fish,” Murray said. “It’s been a part of my life since I was a boy.”

At least once a year, he joins buddies on a 15-day excursion off the coast of southern Mexico. He also takes numerous short trips – “as many as my wife will allow,” Murray joked.

A few years ago, as he returned with too many fish to feed just his wife and two kids, Murray had a brainstorm: “I’ll bring some goodies to the Mission.”

Now he’s a regular. Every other month or so Murray pulls up in his fish-laden pickup and, with the assistance of a few heavy lifters, unloads his catch. Then chefs at the Rescue Mission prepare some for dinner and freeze the rest for later.

Helping out at the Mission was nothing new for Murray. He and his family have made it a tradition for years to serve Thanksgiving dinners there.

“I like doing whatever I can,” said Murray, who’s been on the council six years. “The Mission provides a great service.”

He often goes on a fishing trip not long after Thanksgiving – when residents are particularly happy for the change of pace.

“They tell me, ‘We’ve been eating turkey for weeks,’” Murray said with a chuckle. “They’re so happy to have fish.”

Fishing, he said, gives him a chance to get away from it all – mainly, his phone and computer.

“But now the boats have Wifi,” Murray noted. “You see guys out there on their iPads all day. I’d rather leave mine at home.”

On a recent morning, Murray delivered two 200-pound yellowfins on his way home from a trip. Curious and giddy children gathered around to admire his catch.

“They were very excited,” Palmer said. “To a kid, those fish were as big as a whale.”