Cory Weyant is a seasoned bayman and dragger fisherman with over forty-five years of experience in the industry. He has witnessed significant changes in his line of work, particularly in the Freeport area where he has lived since he was two years old. Weyant's career has spanned several decades, during which he has seen a decline in the number of small trawlers in his area and a dramatic decrease in the abundance of fish. He attributes these changes to overfishing and the advancement of fishing technology. Despite the challenges, Weyant has managed to adapt to the changing circumstances. He transitioned from working on small boats and fish boxes to offshore trawlers, and now focuses on catching bait for the increasing number of sport fishermen in his area. Weyant's love for fishing began in his youth, and he fondly recalls the variety of fish he used to catch, including flounders, flukes, yellowtail, and cod.

Scope and Content Note
This interview with Cory Weyant, conducted by Nancy Solomon on December 8, 2003, provides an insightful look into the changes in the fishing industry over the past few decades. Weyant discusses the decline in the number of small trawlers in his area, the decrease in fish abundance, and the impact of overfishing and technological advancements on the industry. He also shares his personal experiences and adaptations in response to these changes, such as transitioning to catching bait for sport fishermen. Weyant reminisces about the variety of fish he used to catch when he first began fishing and notes the disappearance of certain species like codfish and yellowtail flounder due to overfishing. Weyant also discusses the impact of fishing regulations, noting that they have forced many commercial fishermen out of business and led to an increase in fishing boats in areas with less stringent laws, like New Jersey. He expresses his nostalgia for the past and his wish for a return to simpler times when he could spend a day fishing and return with a full load. The interview provides a valuable perspective on the changes in the fishing industry from the viewpoint of a seasoned fisherman, highlighting the challenges and adaptations required in response to changing environmental and regulatory conditions.