On June 7, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Frank Cona as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection.  Frank Cona, a fifth-generation fisherman from Macata, grew up in a family deeply rooted in the trade. Frank's father and older brother played significant roles in his early education, teaching him the ins and outs of fishing on their dragger boats. From the age of six, Frank was actively involved in fish cleaning, gradually acquiring the skills that would eventually propel him to become a captain.

On January 1, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Frank Rizzo as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Frank is an experienced fisherman and captain who has spent many years navigating the waters off Long Island. Frank discusses various topics, including a memorable encounter with an American submarine and fighter ship, the process of becoming a captain, and the dynamics of the fishing community. He shares his views on the qualities that make a good fisherman, emphasizing the importance of a positive attitude and thoughtful approach to the craft.

On May 15, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed George Combs as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. George was born and raised in Amityville, New York and comes from a long line of baymen, boat builders, and market gunners dating back to 1644. He discusses significant family members such as his father, a famous decoy carver, and his great-great-grandfather, a privateer and shipbuilder. The conversation covers the evolution of boat types used by the Combs family, such as Garveys and gunning boats, and details their construction techniques.

On May 19, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed George Streit as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection. George is a lifelong fishing enthusiast, whose love for the sport shaped his life and experiences.  George shares his memories of fishing in childhood and mentions that while he's had land jobs on and off, he always came back to fishing. Over time, he developed a passion for big-game fishing and clamming. He describes the techniques he's learned over the years, as well as his observations about the local fishing industry.

Howard Pickerell is a boat builder with a specialization in constructing traditional Garvey and Sharpie boats. His career is marked by a deep understanding of the unique features and construction procedures of these boats, which have evolved over the years. Pickerell's work is not only a reflection of his craftsmanship but also a testament to his connection with the maritime heritage. His clientele has varied as the demand for commercial fishing boats has declined, indicating a shift in the boat-building industry.

On May 1, 1998, Nancy Solomon interview Jack Combs as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Jack spent his childhood surrounded by the bay and developed a deep connection to the marine environment. Growing up in a family with a rich fishing heritage, Jack learned valuable lessons from his father and grandfather, including fishing techniques, oyster shucking, and the importance of humor. As Jack grew older, he became involved in various aspects of bay life.

Jack Kelly is a lifelong resident of Southold, Long Island, and has witnessed significant changes in the local environment and fishing industry over the years. Born in the late 1940s, he grew up near Gardiners' Island, where he recalls a fort on the North side and the erosion that caused the road to wash away.

Jim McKearn is an elderly semi-retired fisherman who hails from East Hampton, New York. With a fishing career spanning over several decades, Jim has witnessed firsthand the environmental challenges faced by the fishing industry. Born before World War Two, he has seen the effects of industrial pollution, garbage, and runoff on the local waters. Jim has primarily worked in the areas of Gardeners Bay, East Hampton Bay, and Montauk Point, which are located between the north and south of Gardeners Bay.

On June 8, 2011, Nancy Solomon interviewed Joe Scavone as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Joe developed a passion for the water early on, often fishing with his father and other local fishermen. Joe recounts his early memories of fishing and clamming, starting with small-scale clamming in rowboats before working on larger boats as a teenager. He discusses his experiences working on clamming boats, handling dredges, shoveling clams, and selling to major buyers and local markets.

On September 27, 2011, Nancy Solomon interviewed Joe Scavone as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Joe, a fisherman from Freeport, recalls how he started fishing as a young child with his father on the weekends, and describes how his mother and grandmother would prepare the fish for family meals. Joe describes his transition into commercial fishing, which began in his teens, when he worked on a gillnet boat. He explains the seasonal cycles of fishing and the various techniques and tools he uses to catch which fish in which season.