Andrew Ross
Fishing Traditions & Fishing Futures in Georgia
The goal of the “Fishing Traditions and Fishing Futures” project is to raise awareness of the experiences of commercial fishermen and their changing livelihoods in Georgia by documenting their local fisheries knowledge and perspectives about the state and fate of Georgia’s commercial fishing industry through the use of oral histories. Capturing the life stories and experiences of Georgia’s commercial fishermen is especially important since many local communities have depended on the coastal environment for their economic and cultural base for generations.
National Capital Contracting
Andrew Ross is a seasoned commercial fisherman based in Georgia, with a rich family history in the fishing industry. His journey into fishing began at the age of five when his father would take him out on the boat, tying a rope around him to prevent him from falling overboard. Ross took over the family business at the age of twenty when his father retired. His family's involvement in the fishing industry extends beyond his immediate family, with his grandfather having been in the shipping business, entertaining captains of big boats and cooking for them. Ross's primary focus in the fishing industry is shrimping, a tradition he has upheld over the years. Despite the challenges that have plagued the industry, including overfishing, stringent regulations, and pollution, Ross has remained steadfast, maintaining his boat and continuing the family tradition.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Andrew Ross provides an in-depth look into the commercial fishing industry in Georgia, particularly focusing on shrimping. Ross shares his personal experiences, tracing his journey from when he started fishing at five years old to when he took over the family business at twenty. He discusses the changes he has witnessed in the industry over the years, including the increase in regulations and the decline in profitability. Ross also highlights the challenges that commercial fishermen face, such as overfishing, pollution, and the low prices they receive for their catch. Despite these challenges, Ross expresses his commitment to maintaining the family tradition of fishing [2]. The interview also touches on the broader changes in the fishing industry, with Ross noting the decline in the number of boats and the lack of maintenance due to financial constraints.
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