Rob Bland is a seasoned Northeast Fisheries Observer with over 19 years of experience in the field. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Rob developed a love for the outdoors and aquatic environments from a young age, thanks to his family's recreational fishing trips and camping adventures. His interest in marine life was further piqued by a documentary he watched in sixth grade about humpback whale discovery, which led him to pursue a career in marine research. Rob attended a school in Mathias, Maine, which marked the beginning of his journey on the East Coast. Over the years, he has worked in various ports along the East Coast, from New England to Beaufort, North Carolina, and the Virginia Hampton Bays area. Despite the challenges of balancing family life with a career at sea, Rob remains committed to his work, striving to provide clean and accurate data to support effective fisheries management.

Scope and Content Note 
This oral history interview conducted with Rob Bland on March 29, 2023, provides an in-depth look into his life and career as a Northeast Fisheries Observer. The interview was conducted at Falmouth Technology Park in support of the Northeast Observer Program project. The interview covers a wide range of topics, including Rob's early life in Michigan, his journey to the East Coast, and his experiences working in various ports along the coast. Rob also discusses the challenges of balancing his career with family life, noting that he has missed some family events due to his work. He shares his observations about the struggles of younger fishermen and his strategies for dealing with difficult situations on the boat. Rob also reflects on his contributions to the field, expressing his hope that his data helps make the right management decisions that impact people's livelihoods. He shares his experiences of working in different areas, noting the differences in fishing practices and species between the Northeast and the South. This interview provides valuable insights into the life and work of a fisheries observer, shedding light on the challenges and rewards of this profession. It also contributes to our understanding of fisheries management and the importance of accurate data collection in this field.