Michael and Lisa Cowdrey
Wild Caught: The Life and Struggles of an American Fishing Town
For 300 years, the fishermen of Sneads Ferry, N.C., have practiced sustainable, small- scale commercial fishing, passing on the traditional lore of the sea from generation to generation. In the early 21st century, imported farm-raised shrimp, skyrocketing coastal development, and complex regulations threatened to push many fishermen to the brink of disaster. Wild Caught captures the wisdom and resilience of an extraordinary community.
National Capital Contracting
Matthew Barr interviewed Michael and Lisa Cowdrey for the Wild Caught project. Michael "Chops" Cowdrey is a commercial fisherman, and Lisa Cowdrey is a student pursuing elementary education. Michael, having grown up in a fishing family, shares his journey from working as a crew member to becoming the captain of the Lady Kay. He recounts his early years, including his education at UNC Pembroke and his decision to pursue fishing full-time. Michael describes the dynamics of the fishing industry, highlighting the importance of teamwork and partnerships among fishermen. He details his experiences with different types of fishing, including shrimping and scalloping, and the challenges posed by fluctuating fuel prices, imported seafood, and regulatory changes. Michael also reflects on the support and mentorship he received from seasoned fishermen like John Edens, who played a crucial role in his professional development. Lisa, originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, moved to Sneads Ferry in 2000 and began working at Everett Seafood, where she met Michael. She shares her experiences working in the fish house, learning about different types of seafood, and becoming more integrated into the fishing community. Lisa discusses her educational journey, transferring from Coastal Carolina Community College to UNC Wilmington, where she is studying to become an elementary school teacher. She also reflects on the lifestyle changes and independence she gained by moving away from her family and establishing her own life in Sneads Ferry. The couple discusses the challenges and opportunities within the fishing industry, particularly the impact of rising property values and tourism on local fish houses. They emphasize the need for fishermen to adapt and market their products effectively to survive in the changing economic landscape. Michael and Lisa also share their aspirations for the future, including their plans to raise a family in Sneads Ferry and their hopes for the sustainability of the local fishing industry.
Please Note: The oral histories in this collection are protected by copyright and have been created for educational, research and personal use as described by the Fair Use Doctrine in the U.S. Copyright law. Please reach out Voices@noaa.gov to let us know how these interviews are being used in your research, project, exhibit, etc. The Voices staff can help provide other useful resources related to your inquiry.
The NOAA mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts, to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The Voices Oral History Archives offers public access to a wide range of accounts, including historical materials that are products of their particular times, and may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes.
Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.