Kevin Lynch

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Ellsworth High School - Maine

Description

These interviews were conducted as part of Ellsworth High School's participation in the NOAA Fisheries Service  (NMFS) Local Fisheries Knowledge Pilot Project 2003-2005.  All 10th graders participated in this interdisciplinary project that involved English, History, Social Studies, and Biology classes. To read about the LFK Project, go to http://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/lfkproject/.

Date of Interview
03-17-2005
Transcribers

Joyce Whitmore 

Principal Investigator
Transcript
Biographical Sketch

Kevin Lynch is a seasoned boat captain and fisherman with extensive experience in various types of fishing. He has been involved in the fishing industry for approximately fifteen years, primarily focusing on scallop fishing, dragging industry, tuna fishing, and elver fishing. Kevin's fishing ventures have taken him to different locations, including Maine and New Jersey.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Kevin Lynch offers a firsthand account of his fishing experiences, covering various aspects of his career as a boat captain and fisherman. The interviewers, Pat Nabozny, Shawna Lunch, and Janna Piazza, students from Ellsworth High School, explore different topics related to Kevin's fishing endeavors. The interview takes place at the Ellsworth High School Library and provides a glimpse into the fishing industry in Maine. Kevin shares details about his involvement in scallop fishing, dragging industry, and tuna fishing using a hand line. He also discusses elver fishing, explaining that elvers are baby North American eels that are caught and shipped to Japan, where they are raised and considered a delicacy. He sheds light on the challenges of catching elvers and the preferences of Japanese markets. The interview delves into the techniques and equipment used for various fishing activities. Kevin describes the process of catching cod and haddock using hook and line, sharing insights into baiting strategies with bluefish and herring. He also discusses the use of nets, harpoons, and hooks of different sizes for different fish species. Kevin narrates a remarkable experience of catching a tuna fish that weighed close to nine hundred pounds and shares the excitement and challenges associated with the catch. The interview further explores the logistics of selling the caught fish, including the role of local buyers, auctions, and unionization in the fishing industry. Kevin provides information on the distribution of fish among different buyers and the decision-making process involved. He compares the auction system in Boston and New Bedford, highlighting the differences in how fish are sold. Additionally, Kevin discusses the working conditions and crew dynamics on fishing boats, including the role of the captain, the mate, and the crew members. He describes the challenging work schedules, the dangers posed by storms, and the importance of having a seaworthy vessel. Kevin also shares anecdotes about unexpected catches, including a bomb and whale bones, emphasizing the unpredictability of fishing. Overall, this interview offers valuable insights into the life of a boat captain and fisherman, providing a comprehensive understanding of the fishing industry, techniques, challenges, and experiences in Maine and beyond.


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