Mogie Norris
Wild Caught: The Life and Struggles of an American Fishing Town
For 300 years, the fishermen of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina 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 Mogie Norris for the Wild Caught Oral History Project. Mogie Norris, a lifelong resident and fisherman from Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, has spent most of his life deeply involved in the fishing industry, following the footsteps of his father and grandfather. The interview begins with Norris explaining the origins of his nickname, "Mogie," which was given to him by his grandfather and has been his lifelong moniker. He shares stories of growing up around the water, starting to shrimp at a very young age, and learning the trade from his father, who moved to the area in 1957 and started flounder fishing before transitioning to shrimping. Norris describes the dynamics of working with his brothers in the fishing business, noting that while it can be challenging at times, they generally get along well. He reflects on the nature of fishermen, observing that most shrimpers are good people who were raised into the lifestyle, though there are always a few "hardcore fellows" in any group. The interview provides a detailed account of Norris's early experiences, including clamming, oystering, and shrimping during his school breaks and summers. He recounts a frightening experience from his youth when he and his brother were caught in a storm and lost at sea for an entire night, eventually being rescued by the Coast Guard after being blown 40 miles offshore. This event taught him to respect the ocean and underscored the importance of being well-prepared with good equipment. Norris discusses the various jobs he tried on land, such as spray painting campers and driving a garbage truck, but he always returned to the water, finding it more fulfilling despite its challenges. He emphasizes the peace and autonomy that come with fishing, contrasting it with the crowded and less satisfying jobs on land. The conversation also touches on the skills required for fishing, including mechanical knowledge to fix engines and other boat equipment, which are essential for survival and success on the water. Norris speaks about the camaraderie among fishermen and the mutual respect they have for each other’s work. Norris expresses concerns about the future of the fishing industry, particularly the increasing regulations and the public's misconceptions about commercial fishermen. He defends the sustainability practices of local fishermen, highlighting their commitment to preserving marine life for future seasons. The interview concludes with Norris reflecting on his love for fishing, his reluctance to let his children enter the profession due to its difficulties, and his satisfaction with his current lifestyle.
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