Dick Grachek, born on November 11, 1944, in Queens, New York, is a seasoned commercial fisherman with a deep-rooted passion for the sea. Despite not coming from a fishing family, Grachek's love for the ocean was instilled in him by his grandfather, who owned a fish store in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and had a stand in the Fulton Fish Market. Growing up on the south shore of Long Island, Grachek was exposed to the cycles of fish and the intricacies of marine life from a young age. At the age of 12, he obtained his first commercial clamming license and started his journey in the fishing industry. His early ventures included trapping eels, potting crabs, and selling his catch in his neighborhood.  Grachek's connection to the sea was so strong that even after leaving the ocean to pursue a degree and a brief stint as a high school teacher, he was drawn back to the water. He has fished for just about every species of fish and has spent a significant part of his life as the owner and captain of the F/V Ann Katherine, based in Pt. Judith, Narragansett, Rhode Island. His deep understanding of the social and cultural characteristics of fishing, as well as the business and economic effects of regulation, make him a respected figure in the maritime community.

Scope and Content Note
Dick Grachek shares his experiences and insights as a commercial fisherman, discussing fishing regulations, equipment, fishing grounds, challenges, camaraderie, and the importance of experience and learning from others in the industry. He also talks about the need for communication, adaptation, safety training, and having a knowledgeable crew. Grachek mentions his break from fishing to work in counseling psychology, the financial difficulties in the industry, concerns about consolidation, and the challenges of buying and leasing allocation. The interview concludes with the mention of Grachek being on a panel to further discuss these issues.