Mike Davis

Location of Interview
Collection Name

A History of Red Tide events on the West Coast of Florida

Description

This collection was created during the 2017-2018 red tide event that had major ecosystem impacts on the west coast of Florida. Fish harvesters and related businesses suffered major setbacks during this time. Fishers, with a long history on the water and oftentimes second or third generation involved in the fishing business, reminisce about how the ecosystem has changed during their and their families time and the red tides they have witnessed. The collection provides information on species affected, specific areas affected, as well as discussions related to adaptation behaviors and specific business impacts.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
05-01-2019
Transcribers

Transcription Hub 

Principal Investigator
Audio
Transcript
Biographical Sketch

Mike Davis is a commercial fisherman residing in Cortez.

Scope and Content Note

Mike Davis reflects on his fishing background and various fishing experiences. Davis recalls several Red Tide events affecting the central Gulf coast. In his experience, the Red Tide that hit around 20 years ago was the worst. He discusses his ventures in fishing for king crab in Alaska, swordfish, and bluefin tuna in Mexico. Davis also mentions his work with Bob Brown, fishing from Jacksonville to the Grand Banks, and highlights fellow fishermen from Cortez like Toria Bugzy and Bailey Tong.

Davis focuses on the impact of red tide on the fishing industry, specifically in the Fort Myers and Cortez areas. He expresses frustration with government handling of the situation and discusses the negative consequences of red tide, such as the decline in fish populations and the attraction of live sharks to grouper fishing bait due to the scarcity of other fish species. He notes the stronger and more pervasive nature of the recent red tide, which caused skin irritation and a distinct odor.

Furthermore, Davis voices concerns about pollution and development along the coast, emphasizing the detrimental effects of mangrove removal on water filtration. He anticipates that the red tide may worsen, drawing attention to a previous severe event that damaged coral. Davis calls for stronger measures to address the red tide and protect the fishing industry from its adverse effects, highlighting the need for action against pollution and preservation of crucial coastal ecosystems.


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