Michael Cowdrey

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Wild Caught: The Life and Struggles of an American Fishing Town

Description

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.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
09-01-2001
Transcribers

National Capital Contracting

Principal Investigator
Audio
Transcript
Video
Abstract

Michael Cowdrey was raised in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, where his early years were defined by a robust engagement with the fishing industry. His father, a former Marine from Michigan, and his mother, also a Marine, met in Sneads Ferry and chose to pursue a livelihood in commercial fishing. From a young age, Cowdrey's life revolved around the fishing community, beginning his active participation in the business at merely eight years old. He gradually assumed greater responsibilities, eventually managing fishing operations independently. Cowdrey's career has spanned various states and offshore locations, providing him with  experiences in diverse marine environments and under fluctuating weather conditions. Over the years, he has cultivated extensive expertise in multiple facets of commercial fishing, including mechanics, navigation, and the deployment of advanced fishing technologies.

Scope and Content Note
The oral history interview with Michael Cowdrey, conducted by Matthew Barr, provides a detailed account of Cowdrey's life and professional experiences as a commercial fisherman in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina. The interview explores his formative years, illustrating how he was introduced to fishing by his parents, both former Marines. Cowdrey elaborates on the daily routines and challenges of his upbringing in a fishing community, emphasizing the long hours spent on boats and the camaraderie shared among the children of fellow fishermen. Cowdrey offers in-depth insights into the fishing industry, discussing various fish species and the diverse fishing techniques he employs. He recounts specific fishing expeditions, highlighting the marine life he encounters and the unpredictable nature of the sea. The discussion also covers the impact of weather conditions and storms on fishing activities, underscoring the necessity for adaptability and resilience in the profession. Throughout the interview, Cowdrey reflects on the strong sense of community in Sneads Ferry, particularly how the local population unites during crises. He addresses the evolving nature of the fishing industry, including regulatory challenges and technological advancements that have transformed commercial fishing. 


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