Sarah Calhoun interviewed Aaron Longton in Port Orford, Oregon, on July 18, 2014 as part of the Voices from POORT (Port Orford Ocean Resource Team) project. Aaron discusses how he began his commercial fishing career in his late 30s by buying a boat and salmon permit, upgrading with salmon disaster compensation money, and working hard. He discusses how privatization of the fishery has made it more difficult for younger people to enter the fishery, the pros and cons of privatization, including its negative social impacts on small communities.

Fishing is huge. I think it is a huge driver not only of our economy but of the culture.  I think also it is under-appreciated.

Bill Hall lives in Newport, Oregon, and is the Lincoln County Commissioner in his fourth term. He was born in Portland and lived there until he was 26. He did some graduate work in Portland and then moved to Newport to become a reporter for The News-Times and the news director, covering the local government for a group of radio stations.

Chris Aiello is a commercial fisherman with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Originally from the East Coast, he transitioned to the West Coast after being drawn to the outdoor lifestyle. Despite initial plans for a different career, Aiello found his passion in commercial fishing and has been involved in the industry ever since. His wife is also a commercial fisherman, and together, they have navigated the challenges and changes within the fishery.

Chris Aiello, a fisherman, was born in Newark, New Jersey, and raised in Hoboken and Montclair. He holds a bachelor's degree in science from New York University. Aiello's career began with menial jobs in New York City, but he was drawn to outdoor activities. He moved to the West Coast in 1977, initially to grow pot, before transitioning to fishing. Aiello's work ethic and education have equipped him with the skills to understand management schemes and business practices in the fishing industry.

Dale and Paula Dearing, originally from Tucson, Arizona, moved to Port Orford, Oregon, shortly after their marriage. Dale was introduced to commercial fishing through a friend of his church pastor, a fisherman in Port Orford. Dale fished commercially for one year with his contact before operating independently for 15 years. Paula supported the transition and participated in fishing activities with Dale.

Sarah Calhoun interviewed Danny Keeler in Port Orford, Oregon, on July 18, 2014 as part of the Voices from POORT (Port Orford Ocean Resource Team) project. Danny started fishing in 1969, working first as a deckhand for his uncle. He talks about changes in the industry, such as greater attention to regulation to ensure sustainability. He describes how fishing is vital to the community of Port Orford since the decline of the logging industry, and the need for an association like POORT to ensure a voice in management that better reflects local needs and knowledge.

Dave Bassett is the President of the Rotary Club of Port Orford, and a registered engineer. He was also the State President for the Professional Engineers of Oregon for two years, representing 7,000 registered engineers.

Interview with Dave McCutcheon.

Interview with Dean Fleck.

“One of the same things that makes fishing a great adventure – the wildness and unpredictability of the ocean – can also be a huge source of discomfort.”