David Neubig, born on March 29, 1965, is a seasoned lobsterman from Friendship, Maine. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the lobstering business, with five generations residing in the area, it was only natural for David to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. At the age of 15, in 1981, he embarked on his lobstering journey, driven by his love for the ocean and the allure of being his own boss. Throughout his career, David has not limited himself to a single profession.

Suzanne is a young lobster fisher from Friendship Village. Born into a family with a lobstering tradition, Suzanne has been actively involved in the industry from a young age. Her mother accompanies her on lobstering trips, which occur twice a week, specifically on Tuesdays and Saturdays during the late summer months of July and August. Suzanne holds a lobstering license, for which both her parents contributed to the cost of approximately $45.00. Her pot buoy stands out with its distinctive blue and green colors, making it easily identifiable among others.

Winfield Lash, commonly known as Winnie Lash, was born on July 5, 1918, and spent the majority of his life in Friendship, Maine. He and his wife Barbara have been married for 63 years and have seven children, 17 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. After working at the Camden Shipbuilding Company and Bath Ironworks, he worked at the W. S. Carter Boat Yard, which was owned by his uncle, Scott Carter. When his uncle died in 1946, he and Charles Sylvester bought the yard. Two years later, Sylvester sold his share to Winnie’s brother Douglas, and the yard became known as Lash Brothers.

William McKusic, commonly known as Bill, was born on September 21, 1971, and relocated from Rockland to Friendship ten years ago. With a background in plumbing and carpentry, Bill has been actively involved in lobstering for the past two decades, primarily serving as a sternman. Alongside his lobstering profession, he is a father of three children.

Gilbert Simmons, a lobster fisherman and boat builder, was born on November 25, 1949, and has always resided in Friendship, Maine. He is the owner of Simmons Boat Works, Incorporated, located at 11 Bayberry Drive, Friendship. Gilbert, along with his wife Sharon, has two children named Jason and Ellen and one grandchild. With a passion for hunting and playing, Gilbert spends his free time engaging in these activities. His expertise lies in building custom boats, particularly lobster boats, and he has been in the boat-building business since approximately 1983.

Henry Thompson, Sr., born on October 7, 1947, has been a lifelong resident of Friendship, Maine. His family has deep roots in the community, spanning three generations. Henry is a father of two children and a grandfather to eight grandchildren. For ten years, Henry worked as a lobster buyer, purchasing lobsters from local fishermen, before working as a lobsterman.  His hobby is metal detecting. 

Harley Wallace, born on May 21, 1951, is a lifelong resident of Friendship, Maine, where his family has deep roots for four generations.  Harley has lived in Friendship his entire life and comes from a family with a long tradition of lobstering spanning four generations. He has three sisters and one brother and is the father of two children with one grandchild. Harley began his lobstering journey at the age of six, accompanying his father on the boat.

John Neubig, also known as Johnny, was born on September 18, 1939, and has spent his entire life in Friendship. His family has lived in Friendship for two generations Johnny has one sister, two sons, and a grandson. Although he is currently disabled, he spent 31 years as a lobsterman, from 1954 to 1985.As a lobsterman, Johnny captained his own boat, and in the later years, his wife accompanied him on the fishing trips. In addition to lobstering, he worked as a mason and served in the Navy for two years.

Jimmy Richards, a lifelong resident of Friendship, was born on October 16, 1965. He comes from a family of two sisters and one brother and now has two children of his own. With a passion for outdoor activities, Jimmy enjoys hunting, fishing, coin detecting, and participating in Little League. For more than 30 years, Jimmy, also known as James Richards, has been working as a lobsterman. His experience extends beyond lobstering to include ground fishing and scalloping.

Gordon Murphy, a lifelong resident of Friendship, was born on November 23, 1931, into a family deeply rooted in the town's history, spanning at least five generations. He was the only child of Wilbur and Hazel Burns Murphy. Gordon received his early education in Friendship, attending school until the 10th grade. He completed his studies in Waldoboro, graduating from Waldoboro High School in 1949. Gordon started lobster fishing in seventh grade. In 1951, Gordon joined the U.S. Army Reserves, and two years later, in 1953, he was called up for active duty during the Korean War.

Jimmy is a young and experienced lobsterman hailing from Friendship Village.  He has been lobstering with his father or grandfather since he was five or six years old. Almost everyone in his family, except his younger brother, engages in lobstering.

Born and raised in Friendship Village, Dillon comes from a long line of lobstering tradition, with his father, grandfather, and sister all actively involved in the industry. Dillon has been lobstering for several years, having obtained his junior license at the age of six. Now, at the age of twelve, he has gained enough experience and confidence to venture out on his own, navigating the waters of Walkers Beach in pursuit of the prized crustaceans. He fishes in an 18-foot boat and sets 100-150 traps.

Douglas is an experienced lobster fisherman from Friendship Village School. Born and raised in a coastal community, Douglas has spent his summers dedicated to the lobstering. With his extensive knowledge of fishing techniques and the local waters, Douglas has become a skilled lobsterman.

Phil Bramhall, born on November 6, 1959, is a lifelong resident of Friendship, where his family has lived for four generations. He has two children and has been involved in two primary occupations throughout his life. As a lobsterman for thirty-four years, Phil followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who were both lobster fishermen. Phil started lobstering at the age of ten. As the owner and captain of his 32-foot fiberglass boat named Amanda Kate, Phil takes charge of setting and hauling all the traps.

Philip Genthner, Sr. was born on July 1, 1961, in Friendship, Maine, where he has lived his entire life. He comes from a long line of lobstermen, with his uncles and brothers also being involved in the industry. Philip has been lobstering for over 30 years and is the proud owner and captain of his own boat, the Melinda Kay. He has two sons who are also active lobstermen. In addition to his work as a lobsterman, Philip is a wrestling coach and enjoys watching NASCAR racing.

Kristy has been lobstering since she was five years old. Born into a family deeply rooted in the lobstering industry, she grew up watching her father and brother venture out to the waters every day, and her love for lobstering blossomed alongside their shared experiences. Even her mother occasionally joins the family fishing trips. To obtain her license, Kristy's father filled out the necessary forms and submitted them to the state. Initially, she faced a setback as she lacked a sponsor, but they quickly rectified the situation and resubmitted the application.

Pike Bartlett, born on February 3, 1951, is a prominent figure in the lobster trap industry. Originally from Massachusetts, he relocated to Friendship, Maine, in 1973. His personal interests revolve around outdoor activities such as skiing, sailing, and motorcycling. As the president and owner of the Friendship Trap Company, Bartlett has played a pivotal role in the company's success since its establishment in 1977. The company specializes in the production of lobster traps, utilizing rolls of wire and bales of mesh to craft durable and efficient traps for fishermen.

Ronald "Ronnie" Simmons, born on August 19, 1948, is a lifelong resident of Friendship, Maine. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the lobster business, Simmons developed a strong connection to the industry from an early age. Alongside his passion for hunting and riding his Harley, Simmons has dedicated his life to running his business, Simmons Lobster Wharf. Established in 1971, the wharf serves as a hub for buying lobsters directly from local fishermen and reselling them to customers.

Philip Genthner, Jr. was born on February 13, 1988, in Friendship, where he has spent his entire life. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in the area, Philip represents the third generation of Genthners in Friendship. As a junior at Medomak Valley High School, he actively participates in the school's baseball and wrestling teams, showcasing his athletic prowess. Philip's true passion is lobstering, a pursuit he embarked upon at the tender age of eight. He serves as the captain of his own lobster boat.

Joshua is a young lobster fisherman who has been involved in the trade since he was four years old. He has continued to pursue this family tradition ever since. Growing up in a fishing family, Joshua learned the ropes of lobstering from his father and now enjoys working alongside him and his little brother Daigan. His experience spans several years, making him a knowledgeable and skilled lobster fisherman.

Sam Lash, born on September 4, 1986, is a dedicated lobsterman hailing from Friendship, where his family has deep roots spanning four generations. Growing up surrounded by the ocean, Sam developed a passion for fishing and hunting from an early age. At the age of twelve, he was introduced to the world of lobstering by his cousin Isaac, and since then, he has been hooked on the profession. With five years of experience under his belt, Sam has cultivated a deep love and appreciation for the intricacies of lobstering.

Stan Simmons was born on February 6, 1917.  Now deceased, Stan Simmons was a lobster fisherman for 65 years.  When he was eleven years old, he moved to Friendship from Bremen, Long Island.  He has one adopted child and three grandchildren.  In addition, he was a pilot and spotted fish for purse and stop seiners for seven or eight years.  When he was asked what else he did, he replied, “You name it--everything but deliver babies.”  He served in the Navy for two stints during World War II in the Pacific, where he delivered guerilla fighters to Japanese Islands, a

Virgil Richards, born on May 22, 1936, in Waldoboro, is a fourth-generation resident of Friendship, where he has lived since 1940. He comes from a family with a deep lobstering tradition. With five siblings, three children, and three grandchildren, Virgil has spent 42 years as a lobsterman, making it his lifelong occupation. While lobstering is his primary focus, his special interest lies in his grandchildren.

Wayne Havener was born on November 17, 1929, and has always lived in Friendship.  His family has lived in Friendship for three generations, and he has three children and six grandchildren.  He served in the Coast Guard for three years and has been a lobsterman for 54 years.  His hobbies are reading and watching baseball games. 

Wesley Lash, born on August 4, 1945, has been a resident of Friendship for sixty years. Together with his wife Cynthia, they have raised three sons and have two grandchildren. Although Wesley describes his occupation as "making fiberglass dust," he is widely recognized for his skill in building fiberglass boats. Alongside his boat-building endeavors, Wesley has displayed a talent for carving miniature half-hulls and small birds during his leisure time. He currently serves as a town selectman, contributing to the local community.

Steven, an experienced lobsterman hailing from Friendship Village, lobsters with his older brother, a junior in high school who owns his own lobster boat. They follow in the footsteps of their father and uncles. Steven's lobstering adventures take him to various locations, including the river, Friendship Long Island, Hall Island, Franklin Island, Egg Rock, and several other spots along the way, venturing out past Egg Rock and fishing in waters as deep as thirty-five fathoms.

Bob Bourguignon is a renowned figure in the world of Peconic Baymen, hailing from the region of Flanders in Long Island, New York. Born and raised in the area, Bob has dedicated his life to the art of shellfishing and has become a respected expert in his field. Bob's journey as a Peconic Bayman began at a young age, learning the ropes and techniques from his family members who were involved in the same profession. His uncle, in particular, played a significant role in shaping Bob's understanding and passion for shellfishing.

Bill Gaffga, a native of the area, comes from a lineage of fishermen. Born into the fishing business, he spent nine years in the service before working for General Motors in Lockport for about six years. However, he found the prospect of spending twenty years in a job he didn't enjoy unbearable, leading him to return to his roots in fishing. Gaffga began working on the bay in 1975 and continues to do so, despite the challenges brought about by the brown water in 1985. His fishing activities are diverse, adapting to the season and the catch available.

Doug Rogers Sr. and Jean Rogers are a couple residing in Brooklyn, New York. Doug was born in Brooklyn, but his father and grandfather hailed from East Marion. During the Great Depression, Doug's family moved to Brooklyn but returned to East Marion when he was born. Doug's father worked as a house painter, and his grandfather was a gentleman farmer. Doug spent 35 years working on the bay, learning the trade from a seasoned fisherman named Raymond Rackett, who was a third-generation fisherman.

Mr. Ed Warner, a native of Hampton Bays and a fifth-generation bayman, possessed an unparalleled knowledge of the town's history and its people. Born in 1925, Ed Warner grew up in Hampton Bays, fostering a deep sense of loyalty and pride for his hometown. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he returned home and became a bayman. Ed possessed an intimate understanding of the best fishing spots, techniques to maximize his catch, and where to find the largest clams. Ed Warner served as a member of the Southampton Board of Trustees for 27 years, spanning 13 re-elections.

Jack Kelly is a lifelong resident of Southold, Long Island, and has witnessed significant changes in the local environment and fishing industry over the years. Born in the late 1940s, he grew up near Gardiners' Island, where he recalls a fort on the North side and the erosion that caused the road to wash away.

On April 5, 1988, Nancy Solomon interviewed Brad Keene as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Brad is a seasoned boatman with a deep-rooted connection to his family's maritime legacy. The Keene family has a rich history in Freeport, as Brad's grandfather, Henry Uktch, founded the Freeport Boatman's Association. Brad traces his family lineage back to his great-grandfather, Van Schaaner, who had a fish market in Gloucester, Massachusetts.

On September 15, 2002, Nancy Solomon of Long Island Traditions interviewed Bill Hamilton, a member of the Brookhaven Baymens' Association, in Patchogue, New York. Hamilton provided a detailed history of the Brookhaven Baymens' Association, founded in the 1970s, and its initial focus on clamming issues. Key figures in its early days included Grant and John Mensal, Doc Murray, and Mario Carrera. Hamilton discussed various challenges faced by the Association, such as price fixing, reciprocal agreements between townships, and attempts to limit licenses.

On March 8, 1988, Nancy Solomon interviewed Bob Doxsee Jr. as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Bob's family has a long history in the fishing industry on Long Island. Bob begins by recounting his childhood experiences living in a house on Meadow Island, which was only accessible by boat. He describes the unique features of the house, such as the kerosene stove and lamps, rain barrel, and artesian well.

We lost everything in a matter of hours.

On December 8, 2003, Nancy Solomon interviewed Cory Weyant, a bayman and dragger fisherman from Freeport, New York.  Cory discusses the significant changes he has witnessed in his fishing career over the past fifteen years, reflecting on the decline of fish populations and the impact of overfishing. He describes the transition from small trawlers and local fish markets to the current state where strict regulations and reduced fish populations have drastically altered the fishing industry.

This oral history interview, conducted on July 1, 2000, by Steve Warwick for Long Island Traditions, features Donald Allen Bevelander, a long-time bayman from Sayville, New York. Born on June 17, 1912, in West Sayville, Bevelander provides a detailed account of his life and experiences working on the Great South Bay. He discusses his early life, including moving to Sayville in 1940 and his service during World War II. Bevelander recalls his involvement in community activities, such as organizing the Sayville Little League and serving in the Sayville Fire Department for several decades.

Bill Marinaccio, born and raised in Freeport, New York, is the son of Captain Carmine Marinaccio, a well-known charter boat captain. Growing up in a maritime environment, Bill was introduced to the fishing industry at a young age. He began helping his father with boat maintenance as a child and progressed to more significant roles, including first mate on his father's charter boat. Bill pursued higher education, attending college in 1962, before enlisting in the Army and serving as a military intelligence special agent during the Vietnam War.

On December 8, 1989, Nancy Solomon interviewed Charles Brower, a former cod fisherman from Baldwin. Brower, who began fishing at fifteen, comes from a lineage of fishermen, with his father and uncles also deeply involved in the trade. The interview delves into the evolution of fishing techniques and equipment, particularly the use of gillnets and the transition from cotton to nylon lines. Brower describes the process of gillnetting and cod fishing, highlighting the seasonal nature of these activities and the physical demands involved.

The traditional baymen’s position on the island has been death by a thousand paper cuts, just one law after another law after another law, until, eventually, it’s not that there’s no money to be made out there.  It’s that it’s so much stuff you have to put up with, with all the boat traffic and all the laws and the licenses you have to deal with and law enforcement agencies.  You just don’t see young people getting into it anymore.

Thomas Jefferies, born in 1955, is a commercial fisherman from Freeport, Long Island. Raised on the bay, Jefferies was influenced by his grandparents, who owned a fishing station. After attempting various career paths, including teaching and other jobs, Jefferies found his way back to the bay in his late twenties, deciding to pursue fishing full-time. He has been dedicated to this profession for over three decades. Jefferies specializes in catching and supplying bait to local fishing stations and charter boats, focusing on species like mussels, spearing, sand eels, and squid.

Michael Combs was born on July 3, 1968, and grew up in Freeport and Baldwin, Long Island. He has spent his entire life connected to the bay house tradition, which was central to his family's way of life. From a young age, Combs was introduced to various maritime activities by his father and grandfather, including crabbing, clamming, fishing, and boating. His grandfather, George Carmen, played a significant role in teaching him these skills. As Combs matured, he transitioned these activities into a commercial venture, making a living through crabbing and clamming.

It was a living nightmare.  Something I never want to experience again because besides the waters being closed for clamming, you couldn’t even drive through town.  There were boats in the roads everywhere.  It took a couple of weeks for bulldozers to get rid of boats.  There were boats blocking people’s front doors.  Boats that knocked down fences.  it was devastation.  The more you think about it, the more you remember.

Ken Mades, born and raised in Hampton Bays, New York, comes from a long line of baymen, with his family residing in Southampton town since 1657 and in Hampton Bays since 1740. His grandfather and father both worked on the bay, instilling in him the skills and knowledge necessary for a life tied to the water. Mades briefly pursued a career on Wall Street after high school, attending the New York Institute of Finance. However, he returned to Hampton Bays to raise his family, continuing the family tradition of bay work.

Jon Semlear, born in 1960, is a traditional fisherman and bayman based in Sag Harbor, Long Island. Despite being a first-generation waterman, his family has been part of the Sag Harbor community for approximately seventy years, with his father serving as a local physician. Jon developed an interest in marine activities during his youth, engaging in recreational clamming and scalloping. He pursued formal education in marine affairs at the University of Rhode Island and later transferred to Southampton College, where he studied environmental studies and marine science.

On September 27, 2011, Nancy Solomon interviewed Joe Scavone as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Joe, a fisherman from Freeport, recalls how he started fishing as a young child with his father on the weekends, and describes how his mother and grandmother would prepare the fish for family meals. Joe describes his transition into commercial fishing, which began in his teens, when he worked on a gillnet boat. He explains the seasonal cycles of fishing and the various techniques and tools he uses to catch which fish in which season.

On May 1, 1998, Nancy Solomon interview Jack Combs as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Jack spent his childhood surrounded by the bay and developed a deep connection to the marine environment. Growing up in a family with a rich fishing heritage, Jack learned valuable lessons from his father and grandfather, including fishing techniques, oyster shucking, and the importance of humor. As Jack grew older, he became involved in various aspects of bay life.

On November 17, 2003, Nancy Solomon interviewed John Remsen Sr. for an oral history project. John Remsen Sr., born on February 5, 1933, in Freeport, New York, provides a detailed account of his life and work as a bayman, sharing his family's multi-generational involvement in fishing and clamming in the Freeport area. The interview covers Remsen's early introduction to the bay at the age of five, his first experiences with clamming alongside his father, and the evolution of his work on the water.

On July 10, 2000, Nancy Solomon interviewed Jerry Collins as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Jerry, a lifelong resident of the Sayville area in Bay Shore, often accompanied his father into the bay, beginning his full-time involvement in clamming in 1946, primarily as a tonger. He discusses the significance of facing the elements and perseverance in this line of work and the importance of having a good boat and engine. He explains the methods of tonging and describes the types and sizes of tongs used.

On October 1, 1988, Nancy Solomon interviewed John Remsen, Sr. as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. John is a skilled boat builder who has dedicated his life to constructing garveys. John's passion for boat building began when he observed other individuals constructing garveys, a type of boat commonly used in shallow waters. In the early days, John primarily used cedar wood for his boats. He would visit mills in New Jersey, particularly New Gretna, to purchase oak.

On May 10, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Don Kearsley as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Don did not come from a family of fisherman, but was interested in learning because he lived close to the water near Atlantic City. He developed his fishing under the mentorship an experienced fisherman. The interview covers the traditional methods of clamming and offshore fishing, the evolution of fishing equipment, and the transition from using cotton and linen nets to nylon and poly nets.

On May 7, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Carmine Marinaccio, a passionate fisherman and charter boatman. Carmen discusses his early years, detailing his family's move from the Bronx to Long Beach, and his experiences growing up near the water, where he developed a love for fishing and boating. The interview covers his career transition from a charter boatman during the Great Depression to making fishing lures. Carmen shares his perspectives on the challenges small-scale fishermen face, including economic hardships and the impacts of regulatory changes.

On May 15, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed George Combs as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. George was born and raised in Amityville, New York and comes from a long line of baymen, boat builders, and market gunners dating back to 1644. He discusses significant family members such as his father, a famous decoy carver, and his great-great-grandfather, a privateer and shipbuilder. The conversation covers the evolution of boat types used by the Combs family, such as Garveys and gunning boats, and details their construction techniques.

On June 7, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Frank Cona as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection.  Frank Cona, a fifth-generation fisherman from Macata, grew up in a family deeply rooted in the trade. Frank's father and older brother played significant roles in his early education, teaching him the ins and outs of fishing on their dragger boats. From the age of six, Frank was actively involved in fish cleaning, gradually acquiring the skills that would eventually propel him to become a captain.

On July 12, 2000, Steve Warrick interviewed Bob Kaler as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection. Bob Kaler, a lifelong resident of Patchogue, New York, worked in clamming and crabbing for decades. Bob discusses the process of setting trap lines for crabbing, attributing his start in the industry to living near the bay. Over the years, he's seen the number of crabbers increase in reaction to a decline in the clamming industry and the rising demand for crabs.

The interview with Tom Kuhner, conducted by Mary Lee on June 11, 2001, provides a comprehensive narrative of his life as a fisherman on Long Island. Born in Freeport, Kuhner’s earliest memories include crabbing and clamming, and starting a lucrative salmon bait business as a child. His fishing career spans various locales, from Freeport to Patchogue, before settling in West Babylon in the mid-1970s. Kuhner’s experience is enriched by his relationship with a commercial fisherman who lived with his family during his youth, significantly influencing his skills and career path.

This is an interview with Leonard "Lenny" Nilson, conducted by Steve Warrick on July 15, 2000, at L & L Bait and Tackle in Islip, Long Island. Lenny Nilson was born in July 1947 in Bay Shore, Long Island. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in commercial fishing, with his father immigrating from Sweden in 1929 and establishing a fishing and bait business on West Fire Island. Nilson's early years were spent working alongside his father, gaining hands-on experience in the industry.

Howard Pickerell is a boat builder with a specialization in constructing traditional Garvey and Sharpie boats. His career is marked by a deep understanding of the unique features and construction procedures of these boats, which have evolved over the years. Pickerell's work is not only a reflection of his craftsmanship but also a testament to his connection with the maritime heritage. His clientele has varied as the demand for commercial fishing boats has declined, indicating a shift in the boat-building industry.

Tom Ruhle was a clam "diver" who worked on the east end of Long Island, primarily in Lake Montauk but also in East Hampton. The interview examines harvesting methods, habitat changes, and environmental and regulatory history in this area.

Bayman Jon Semlear is a pound trap fisherman and bass fisherman in Sag Harbor. In this short interview he shares his knowledge of the bay, ecological changes, and close calls he's had on the water.

Roland Clark was born and raised on Shelter Island, New York, where he has spent his entire life working on the water. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in maritime traditions; both his father, Ed Clark Sr., and his grandfather, Albertus Clark, were experienced fishermen and clammers. Roland attended school on Shelter Island and, from a young age, joined his father and grandfather in various fishing activities, including clamming, scalloping, and hand lining.

On February 3, 2004, Nancy Solomon interviewed Edward Lowell Ockers, or Lowell, as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Project. Ockers was born in West Sayville in 1933 and has remained a lifelong resident of the area. After serving in the Navy, he began to work on the bay, catching eels using traps purchased from his father–who had also made a living as a local bayman. During the conversation with Solomon, Ockers shares his family’s history with the local maritime industry, recalling his summers spent assisting his father with pound trap fishing.

On July 3, 2000, Steve Warrick interviewed Flo Sharkey as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection. Flo, a dedicated baywoman from Long Island, comes from a family deeply rooted in the fishing and shellfishing industry. Flo explains the various methods she uses when clamming and discusses the types of clams she gathers. She learned the trade from her brother and father and shares insights about treading and scratch raking.

On May 19, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed George Streit as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection. George is a lifelong fishing enthusiast, whose love for the sport shaped his life and experiences.  George shares his memories of fishing in childhood and mentions that while he's had land jobs on and off, he always came back to fishing. Over time, he developed a passion for big-game fishing and clamming. He describes the techniques he's learned over the years, as well as his observations about the local fishing industry.

On June 20, 2011, Nancy Solomon interviewed Tom Jefferies as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History collection. Born in 1955, Jefferies is an experienced bayman who has operated out of Freeport, New York for decades. Jefferies was exposed to life on the bay from an early age; his family owned two fishing stations and a bay house that he visited during summers as a child. In this session, he provides a brief sketch of haul seining for spearing, chumming, and harvesting horseshoe crabs.

On February 3, 2015, Nancy Solomon interviewed William "Bill" Reed for Long Island Traditions. Bill comes from Hampton Bays and is the fourteenth of sixteen children in his family. From a young age, he was influenced by his older brothers, who were baymen, and he developed a keen interest in the water and fishing. He pursued college for a brief period before fully immersing himself in a career as a fisherman.

On June 3, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Danny Koch as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Danny is a lifelong bayman who has been working the bay area for his entire life, just like his father, uncle, and grandfathers before him. Danny explains the process of setting traps and the varying number of killey he catches each day, depending on the tides and other factors.  He emphasizes that the bay he fishes in is not a particularly productive fishing area, as indicated by the sounds of gulls.

On May 6, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed brothers Lenny and Danny Koch as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Lenny and Danny grew up in Baldwin, New York, where their family developed deep ties to the boating and fishing industries. Their grandfather was a captain and their father, along with many other relatives, worked as a fisherman in the region. Lenny’s career along the eastern seaboard has included diverse activities, from shrimping in Florida to dragging off the Connecticut shoreline.

On July 16, 2000 Steve Warrick interviewed Robert Lowell Slager for the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Bob followed in the footsteps of his father, and started dredging clams at the age of 16. Bob provides details about his life as a clam dredger and the changing nature of the bay, including the sharp drop in clam populations due, in part, to pollution, as well as the shift from primarily seeing commercial boats to pleasure boats.

On May 27, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Cory Weyant as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Cory is a full-time commercial fisher from Freeport, New York, who traps eels, killies, crabs, and other finfish. His family lived in the area for over 60 years, and he remembers family boat trips and time spent sailing with his father. Cory discusses the decreased fish population and ties it to the pollution from speedboats and yachts.

On January 1, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Frank Rizzo as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Frank is an experienced fisherman and captain who has spent many years navigating the waters off Long Island. Frank discusses various topics, including a memorable encounter with an American submarine and fighter ship, the process of becoming a captain, and the dynamics of the fishing community. He shares his views on the qualities that make a good fisherman, emphasizing the importance of a positive attitude and thoughtful approach to the craft.

On January 26, 2015, Nancy Solomon interviewed Bob Doxsee Jr. as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. He recounts his experiences and memories of Point Lookout, New York, particularly focusing on the mid-20th century. He describes the significant impact of nor'easters and hurricanes. Bob details the extensive efforts to combat coastal erosion, including the placement of rocks by the Town of Hempstead and the creation of a clam shell reef by his father, a project approved by the U.S. Army engineers.

Retired bayman and boat builder John Remsen shares his memories of storms and hurricanes including Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

On June 8, 2011, Nancy Solomon interviewed Joe Scavone as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history project. Joe developed a passion for the water early on, often fishing with his father and other local fishermen. Joe recounts his early memories of fishing and clamming, starting with small-scale clamming in rowboats before working on larger boats as a teenager. He discusses his experiences working on clamming boats, handling dredges, shoveling clams, and selling to major buyers and local markets.

On July 6, 2000, Steve Warrick interviewed Edward Lowell Ockers, or Lowell, as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History project. Ockers was born in West Sayville in 1933 and has remained a lifelong resident of the area. After serving in the Navy, he began to work on the bay, catching eels using traps purchased from his father–who had also made a living as a local bayman. Ockers discusses various fishing techniques and materials, providing an in-depth description of pound traps and gillnets.

On November 28, 2007, Nancy Solomon conducted an interview with Bill Tunney as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Tunney is a commercial fisherman based in East Patchogue, New York. He grew up in Bellport Village and started clamming on Great South Bay when he bought his first boat at the age of thirteen. Over the years, Tunney began to work out on the ocean and has expanded his fishing activities to include gillnetting as well as dredging for crabs and scallops.

Jim McKearn is an elderly semi-retired fisherman who hails from East Hampton, New York. With a fishing career spanning over several decades, Jim has witnessed firsthand the environmental challenges faced by the fishing industry. Born before World War Two, he has seen the effects of industrial pollution, garbage, and runoff on the local waters. Jim has primarily worked in the areas of Gardeners Bay, East Hampton Bay, and Montauk Point, which are located between the north and south of Gardeners Bay.

On February 4 & 5, 2004, Nancy Solomon interviewed Mike and Helen Van Essendelft as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Mike and Helen are long-time members of the West Sayville community, and both participated in the local clamming and oystering industry. Mike discusses the history of the Dutch community in West Sayville, including stories of prominent figures and the creation of Bluepoints Oyster Company, where he worked for 12 years.

On July 15, 2000, Steve Warrick interviewed James Malan “Jim” Rose as part of the Long Island Traditions oral history collection. Rose is a seasoned clammer and gillnetter from Long Island, New York. He was born in Southampton in 1954 and grew up in Blue Point until moving to the East Patchogue area in the 1980s. Rose began his career in clamming at the age of twelve, working part time after school and over the summers. He started out on an old boat that he fixed up himself and learned the art of digging for clams from an experienced friend.

On May 15, 1997, Nancy Solomon interviewed Wayne Grothe for the Peconic Estuary Interviews project. Wayne Grothe is an experienced shellfisherman with over 24 years of work in the field. Wayne has primarily worked on the south shore, specifically in areas like Shinnecock Bay. He is resident of Southampton and was an active commercial fisherman until around 2001 when he transitioned to working for the Nature Conservancy of Long Island. With his experience and expertise, Wayne became a keen observer of the ecological changes occurring in the Peconics and the South Shore regions.

On May 8, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Tony Sougstad as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Project. Sougstad is a seasoned ocean fisherman and captain of the boat E.T. His first discussion with Solomon covers his entry into the fishing industry, the species of fish he harvests, the gear he uses, and the seasonal nature of his profession. After working as an engineer for a time, Sougstad decided to make a living out on the water, specializing in trawl or bottom fishing.

On May 11, 1988, Nancy Solomon interviewed Rick Verity as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Collection. Rick is a skilled bayman who learned the art of eeling from his father, Elwood Verity. He shares his lifelong experiences as a bayman, inheriting his knowledge and skills from his father and uncle. He discusses his early introduction to clamming, the intricacies of eel trapping and combing, and the craftsmanship behind creating various types of traps and nets.

The Rev. Herb Bennerfield presides over the annual Blessing of the Fleet in Delcambre. He describes what the shrimp festival and fishery mean to one small town.

Cecile Robin married into a family of fishermen. She explores some of the wives tales associated with fishing in south Louisiana.

Wilson Acosta has been fishing since he was a boy.  Now in his 60's, he is considering selling his boat and retiring.

Interview with Cokie Rathborne and Greg Lier in Harvey Canal, Louisiana.

Interview with Cokie Rathborne and Greg Lier in Harvey Canal, Louisiana.

Dr. Chris Cenac is talking about the book he wrote, Eyes of an Eagle. The book describes the history of Houma, Louisiana, through the eyes of Dr. Chris Cenac's great-grandfather Jean Pierre Cenac, Sr. The Cenac family made many contributions to the improvement of technology and modernization of Houma and the surrounding areas. These include Houma Fish & Oyster Company, the first Ford dealership, and Louisiana Crushing Company. He also described the events leading up to the invention of the can, the air conditioner, the label making process, and getting gasoline out of the ground.

Interview with Roger Carmadelle in Grand Isle, Louisiana.

Chris Cenac Sr. discusses the dried shrimp industry in the 1930's.  He also talks about the Germans and their use of the shrimp.  He also tells about Louisiana State University in the 60's.  He talks about his ancestors and their travel to Louisiana.  This transcript also discusses the invention of canning and pasteurization and its introduction into America.  The creation and use of Tabasco on seafood was being promoted around the time.  He talks about the steamboats and trains as mode of transportation as well as the development of the telegraph.

Interview with Reuben St. Pierre in Grand Isle, Louisiana.

Thu Bui discusses Vietnamese fishermen and their traditions and history.  She talks about her job as a Sea Grant agent and her dealings with the Vietnamese fishermen. 

Interview with Norris Price in Chauvin, Louisiana.

Jodie Avail and Jay Thornhill discusses the origin and history of Dupuy’s Oyster Shop. They talk about the diversification of the menu and the oyster dealers.

Interview with Leoda Besson Bladsacker in Grand Isle, Louisiana.

Interview with Mark Staton in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Interview with David Richard and Kent Ledoux in Grand Chenier, Louisiana.

Interview with Dewey Lehret.

Interview with Frank Besson of Grand Isle, Louisiana.

Robert Hoy discusses his father's company and the many different shrimp drying platforms.  He also talks about shipping the shrimp to China.  He talks about his family drying fish as well.  He mentions shelling and cleaning the shrimp.