Jon Semlear, born in 1960, is a traditional fisherman and bayman based in Sag Harbor, Long Island. Despite being a first-generation waterman, his family has been part of the Sag Harbor community for approximately seventy years, with his father serving as a local physician. Jon developed an interest in marine activities during his youth, engaging in recreational clamming and scalloping. He pursued formal education in marine affairs at the University of Rhode Island and later transferred to Southampton College, where he studied environmental studies and marine science. Upon completing his education, Jon transitioned to a professional career in shellfishing, initially focusing on clamming and scalloping. In the early 1990s, he expanded his operations to include pound trapping, acquiring old fishing sites, and replacing outdated equipment. Jon is known for his extensive knowledge of traditional fishing methods and his commitment to maintaining his own gear. 

Scope and Content Note
This interview, conducted by Nancy Solomon on April 11, 2016, documents the professional experiences and personal reflections of Jon Semlear, a traditional fisherman and bayman from Sag Harbor. The interview covers Jon's initial interest in marine activities, his formal education in marine affairs and environmental studies, and his career progression in the fishing industry. Jon discusses the impact of the brown tide of 1985 on the local scallop industry and his subsequent transition to pound trapping. He provides detailed descriptions of the traditional fishing methods and equipment he uses, including scallop dredges, clam rakes, and pound traps. The interview also addresses the regulatory challenges and environmental changes that have affected his work, such as restrictive quotas and the occurrence of red tides. Jon shares insights into the economic and physical demands of his profession, the importance of maintaining his equipment, and the mentorship he received from fellow fishermen. Additionally, the interview touches on his role as a trustee, where he applied his practical knowledge of local waters to environmental and fisheries management. Jon's reflections provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and rewards associated with his career in traditional fishing.