Lester Deverne Perry
Fishing Traditions & Fishing Futures in Georgia
The goal of the “Fishing Traditions and Fishing Futures” project is to raise awareness of the experiences of commercial fishermen and their changing livelihoods in Georgia by documenting their local fisheries knowledge and perspectives about the state and fate of Georgia’s commercial fishing industry through the use of oral histories. Capturing the life stories and experiences of Georgia’s commercial fishermen is especially important since many local communities have depended on the coastal environment for their economic and cultural base for generations.
National Capital Contracting
Lester Perry is a seasoned commercial fisherman with deep roots in North Carolina's fishing community. Raised in a family with a long-standing tradition of fishing, Perry was introduced to the trade at a tender age, specifically to the practice of shrimping. His early exposure to the sea and its bounties shaped his career path, leading him to ascend the ranks within the industry. Perry's dedication and skill eventually earned him the position of a boat captain, a role he currently fulfills aboard the Blessed Assurance. His life on the water is marked by a profound understanding of the responsibilities and hazards that come with commanding a fishing vessel. Perry's narrative is not just a personal account but also a reflection of the broader challenges that have beset the fishing industry over the years. His experiences encapsulate the essence of a fisherman's life, from the perils faced at sea to the unwavering commitment to his vocation.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Lester Perry offers a comprehensive overview of the commercial fishing industry through the lens of an individual who has spent a lifetime navigating its waters. Perry provides insight into the evolution of the industry, detailing the significant changes that have occurred in shrimping techniques and technology. He speaks candidly about the labor-intensive nature of fishing, particularly scalloping and jellyballing, and the physical demands these activities place on fishermen. Perry also addresses the regulatory impact on the industry and the consequent challenges these regulations pose to the community's economic well-being. Throughout the interview, he shares personal anecdotes, including a harrowing account of being pulled overboard, which underscores the inherent dangers of the profession. Moreover, Perry reflects on the varying experiences he has had while working on different types of boats and the exhaustive hours that the job entails. Despite the decline of the industry and the hardships he has faced, Perry's passion for fishing is evident. He offers advice to the younger generation aspiring to enter the industry, emphasizing the rewards that come with the commitment to this way of life. His narrative is a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who make their living from the sea, and his willingness to choose this path again speaks volumes about his love for fishing.
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