Rick Verity is a skilled bayman who learned the art of eeling from his father, Elwood Verity. Growing up in Blue Point, Rick's family has a long history of working on the bay, with his grandfather, Bill Verity, being a lobster catcher. Rick began his bay adventures at the age of three or four, accompanying his father to rake clams in the bay. His father taught him the best spots and techniques for clamming, including treading clams in the soft mud. Over the years, Rick and his father expanded their expertise, engaging in activities such as combing and setting traps for eels.

Roland Clark was born and raised on Shelter Island, New York, where he has spent his entire life working on the water. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in maritime traditions; both his father, Ed Clark Sr., and his grandfather, Albertus Clark, were experienced fishermen and clammers. Roland attended school on Shelter Island and, from a young age, joined his father and grandfather in various fishing activities, including clamming, scalloping, and hand lining.

Thomas Jefferies, born in 1955, is a commercial fisherman from Freeport, Long Island. Raised on the bay, Jefferies was influenced by his grandparents, who owned a fishing station. After attempting various career paths, including teaching and other jobs, Jefferies found his way back to the bay in his late twenties, deciding to pursue fishing full-time. He has been dedicated to this profession for over three decades. Jefferies specializes in catching and supplying bait to local fishing stations and charter boats, focusing on species like mussels, spearing, sand eels, and squid.

Interview with Tom Jefferies

Interview with Tom Jefferies

Tom Ruhle was a clam "diver" who worked on the east end of Long Island, primarily in Lake Montauk but also in East Hampton. The interview examines harvesting methods, habitat changes, and environmental and regulatory history in this area.

Tony Sougstad is a seasoned fisherman and the captain of the boat E.T. He is also the owner, chief cook, and bottle washer of the boat. His fishing activities are strictly ocean-based and vary by the seasons. He mainly fishes for whiting and fluke. Sougstad is also skilled in making nets and other necessary fishing gear. He is a dedicated worker, emphasizing the importance of perseverance even during tough times. Sougstad is also involved in the marketing side of his business, selling his catch to various markets, including the New York Fulton Fish Market.

Wayne Grothe is an experienced shellfisherman with over 24 years of work in the field. Wayne has primarily worked on the south shore, specifically in areas like Shinnecock Bay. He is resident of Southampton and was an active commercial fisherman until around 2001 when he transitioned to working for the Nature Conservancy of Long Island. With his experience and expertise, Wayne became a keen observer of the ecological changes occurring in the Peconics and the South Shore regions.