Anonymous, #20

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Cumulative Effects in New Jersey Fisheries

Description

The "Cumulative Effects and New Jersey Fisheries" Project was funded by the New Jersey Sea Grant College Program, New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Dr. Bonnie McCay and Dr. Kevin St. Martin of Rutgers University were the principal investigators of this project and interviews were conducted primarily by Dr. Grant Murray (now at Vancouver Island University) and Mike Danko (New Jersey Sea Grant College Program, New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium). These interviews had 2 principal goals: 1) to document the cumulative effects of regulatory change on the people, businesses and communities most directly dependent on New Jersey's fisheries; and 2) to create a history of New Jersey's commercial and recreational fisheries through the oral histories of people involved in them. Identifying information has been stripped from these interviews in order to preserve anonymity. Thanks to the 44 fish harvesters that participated in oral history interviews.

Date of Interview
02-14-2006
Transcript
Biographical Sketch

The narrators are two brothers that have fished together for some time. Both individuals were in their mid to late 50s at the time of the interview and were commercial fishermen fishing for scallop out of Point Pleasant, New Jersey. They were born in Newark, New Jersey.  Their father was a party boat captain and both gained their first experience serving as crew on that party boat. They started off fishing on their own for lobster in the 1970's but very quickly turned to scallops. One brother has a degree from Rutgers University but did not undergo any formal training specifically in fishing. He is married and has four children, one of whom became a full-time fisherman after graduating from college.

Scope and Content Note
This interview contains detailed information on the evolution of the scallop fishery and regulatory change thereof.  Two brothers share their experiences as commercial fishermen in the scallop industry. They recount their initial exposure to the fishing industry, with both of them starting as crew members on their father's boat. In the 1970s, the brothers began lobster fishing, but soon transitioned to scallop fishing, which proved more profitable and consistent year-round. They discuss the evolution of the scallop fishery and its abundance during the early years. However, the industry faced challenges in the 1980s, with overfishing leading to a decline in scallop populations. Regulatory changes are a significant focus of the interview. The brothers recount the introduction of regulations in the early 1980s, such as count limits, gear restrictions, and limitations on fishing days. They express frustrations with the count law, as it was difficult to accurately measure scallop counts. The regulations impacted their operations and led to changes in fishing practices. The interview also touches on the brothers' ownership of their vessel since 1988, their experiences with crew size, and the decline in the number of scallopers operating out of Point Pleasant. They mention that some fishermen transitioned to other fisheries, such as surf clamming, while others retired or passed away. In the late 1990s, new regulations were introduced, including rotational quota systems and limited access areas. The fishermen reflect on the evolution of the industry, including the transition from smaller, less mechanized boats to larger vessels with advanced technology. They also discuss the social dynamics within the fishing community and the effects of consolidation. The fishermen express concerns about the future of commercial fishing in their area, particularly with the potential sale of waterfront properties. However, they also emphasize their commitment to their profession and the self-sufficiency they have achieved in their operations. The discussion then focuses on the possibility of a big developer buying the area and the impact it would have. The conversation shifts to the fishing industry itself, with individuals discussing the current state of the clamming and scallop businesses. They express concern about the growth of the fishing industry and the increasing number of boats, which they believe is unsustainable and detrimental to the fishery. They mention that the percentage of catch reported by the industry exceeds the recommended limits and may lead to depletion. They also note that the fishery is already showing signs of overfishing. The individuals discuss the management and regulations of the fishing industry, suggesting that there is a need for quicker reactions and adjustments based on survey data and the movement of scallops. They mention the need to protect young scallops and close areas when necessary. However, they criticize the slow response time of the authorities and suggest that the management approach needs improvement. They mention the Fisherman's Survival Fund and its role in representing the interests of fishermen. They also discuss the issues of overcapitalization and the need for balance in the industry. The narrators criticize Oceana's methods and argue that their actions harm both the environment and the economic potential of the fishing industry. The conversation also touches on habitat changes caused by storms, the benefits of gear restrictions in preserving scallop populations, and the positive influence of certain scientists and organizations in managing the fishery.  They discuss their fishing trips, including the duration and locations, as well as their connections with other fishermen in different ports. They mention changes in their market and distribution channels, describing how they used to sell to different buyers and ports but have now found a reliable company to sell their catch. They discuss their views on the National Marine Fisheries Service, acknowledging that while they initially perceived them as their enemy, they now see them as a potential savior from political pressures. The narrators discuss the decline of businesses in the area, such as shipyards and ironworks, and the impact it has had on the availability of services for fishermen. They note the improvements in fishing equipment and engines, which have reduced breakdowns and the need for frequent engine rebuilds. In terms of the future, the fishermen believe that despite challenges, the scallop industry will come out okay, and Point Pleasant will continue to be a fishing port. They discuss the importance of responsible fishing practices and express their concerns about the negative effects of scallop net fisheries on the scallop population and the ecosystem. Finally, the interviews reflect on the value of limited access permits and the potential negative impact of a directed fishery. The conversation concludes with a discussion on safety regulations and their effects on the industry, including a tragic incident involving a fishing boat that sank.


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