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.