Roger Salisbury
Commercial Fishermen in the California Halibut Trawl Fishery: Who does your local seafood come from?
These oral histories capture and share the history and stories of commercial California halibut trawl fishermen, providing a way for the public to connect with local fishermen and the source of their seafood. Interviews are conducted with California halibut trawl fishermen in the San Francisco and Half Moon Bay ports, focusing on the fishermen’s fishing history, their family’s fishing history, and their plans for the future. This project will preserve pieces of the history of the California halibut trawl fishermen, as well as build and strengthen relationships between NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the state, local fishermen, and the community.
Pioneer Transcription Services
Roger Salisbury is a seasoned commercial fisherman with nearly five decades of experience in the waters of Half Moon Bay, California. His journey into the fishing industry began post-graduation with a degree in mechanical engineering when he faced challenges securing employment in his field. This led him to purchase a small skiff and, subsequently, a commercial fishing license in 1971. Over the years, Salisbury has dedicated over 40 years to fishing for California Halibut, evolving his methods from gillnets to trammel nets and trawling. He spends approximately 70 days annually trawling for Halibut and also engages in crab fishing. While he typically operates solo, he occasionally employs a deckhand to assist with operations. Salisbury's career reflects a deep understanding of the marine environment and the adaptability required to sustain a livelihood from the sea.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Roger Salisbury provides a comprehensive overview of his extensive experience and evolving practices in the commercial fishing industry. Salisbury details the transition in fishing tactics he has employed over the years, moving from gillnets to dragging and making modifications to his trawl net gear. He offers insights into the changes he has observed in the marine environment, including the potential effects of sewage on fish populations and the influence of temperature on his catch rates. Salisbury also addresses the fluctuations in fish populations and the necessity for flexibility in fishing strategies. Furthermore, Salisbury discusses the operational aspects of his fishing techniques, the impact of weather conditions, and the market demand for halibut. He shares his perspective on the future of the fishery, the importance of knowledge transfer to the next generation, and the challenges posed by jellyfish and sea lions, which damage his nets and affect his catch. The interview also touches on the issue of bycatch and the competition he faces from foreign fisheries. Salisbury contrasts Pacific and California halibut and extends his best wishes to future halibut trawlers. His narrative encapsulates the life of a commercial fisherman and the complexities of the profession.
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