George Clark Sr. was interviewed about his lifelong experiences as a commercial fisherman on the Hudson River. Clark recounts his early introduction to fishing in 1928 alongside his father, emphasizing the practical knowledge and techniques required to catch sturgeon and other fish species. He describes the evolution of fishing methods and equipment, from linen nets soaked in mint seed oil to modern monofilament nets, and highlights challenges such as environmental conditions, competition among fishermen, and regulations.

On September 27, 1989, Henry Gourdine was interviewed about his extensive experiences in the fishing industry. Gourdine discusses a range of topics, including the seasonal cycles of crab and shad fishing, the challenges of maintaining and adapting fishing equipment, and the evolution of net design and techniques. He reflects on his family’s influence on his fishing practices and recounts detailed observations about crab health, fishing costs, and the environmental changes affecting local waters.

On January 12, 1992, Marguerite Holloway interviewed James Carey in Verplanck, New York, for the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Carey reflects on his experiences with shad fishing on the Hudson River, recounting his early years learning the trade during the Great Depression and his later career balancing fishing with a full-time job in railroading. He discusses the cultural and economic importance of the river, the impact of environmental regulations on fishing practices, and the decline of traditional fishing methods such as drift netting and seining.

On July 31, 1993, Marguerite Holloway interviewed James H. Bleakley in Buchanan, New York. The interview explores Bleakley’s lifelong connection to the Hudson River and its fishing traditions, particularly his experiences with shad and sturgeon fishing. Bleakley discusses the technical and environmental challenges faced by commercial fishermen, including the impact of tides, fish migration patterns, and market fluctuations. He details the transition from traditional stake nets to anchor nets and the significance of understanding the river's unique dynamics for successful fishing.

On August 8, 1991, Marguerite Holloway interviewed John Fiorito. Fiorito discusses his extensive experiences as a fisherman along the Hudson River, focusing on methods such as haul seining, gill netting, and ice fishing. He describes working with the Tuttle family, learning fishing techniques, and his eventual transition to operating independently. Topics include the technical aspects of fishing equipment, such as nets, poles, and scows; the evolution of materials from cotton to nylon; and challenges like environmental changes, regulations, and market pressures.

On December 24, 1991, Marguerite Holloway interviewed Lester Ostoyic in Malden-on-Hudson, New York, for the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Ostoyic, born in 1935 and raised in Malden-on-Hudson, discusses his family’s legacy in commercial shad and sturgeon fishing on the Hudson River. He recalls learning the trade from his father, a commercial fisherman, and Air Raid Warden during World War II, and the seasonal rhythms of fishing.

On July 17, 1993, Louis and Harry Lasher were interviewed about their experiences with shad fishing along the Hudson River. The Lashers discuss their lifelong involvement in fishing, covering topics such as traditional techniques for setting poles and nets, the logistics of operating fish camps, and the challenges of working with tides and environmental conditions. They also reflect on the changes in fishing practices and regulations over time, the decline in shad populations, and the impact of industrial development on the Hudson River's ecosystem and community access.

On May 19, 1991, Marguerite Holloway interviewed Raymond Minard in Poughkeepsie, New York. Minard, a retired shad fisherman with decades of experience, discusses his career in the Hudson River fisheries, including the challenges of changing fish populations, economic shifts, and environmental factors like PCB contamination. He reflects on the decline of the shad fishery and the rise of striped bass populations, which impacted the viability of commercial fishing.

On April 25, 1992, Marguerite Holloway interviewed Robert A. Brestolli in Haverstraw, New York. Brestolli reflects on his experiences growing up in a fishing community, learning techniques such as the use of t-nets and bucket nets from his uncle. He discusses the evolution of fishing practices in the region, shifts in market demands, and the challenges posed by environmental changes and regulatory actions. Brestolli shares insights into the culture of local fisheries, the decline in profitability, and his efforts to adapt by using anchor nets instead of traditional stake nets.

On January 2, 1999, Marguerite Holloway interviewed Ron Ingold in Kingston, NY, as part of the Hudson River Maritime Museum's oral history project. Ingold reflects on his experiences as a fisherman on the Hudson River, beginning with memories of assisting his father as a child. He details the practices and challenges of river fishing, including setting and maintaining fishing poles, interactions with commercial shipping traffic, and the logistics of shad and eel fishing.