Steve Robbins is a seasoned lobsterman hailing from Ellsworth, Maine. Born in May 1945, he has spent most of his life dedicated to the fishing industry, primarily focusing on lobster fishing. At the time of the interview in May 2005, Steve was sixty years old, with over five decades of experience as a lobsterman.

Scope and Content Note
Steve Robbins discusses various aspects of his career as a lobsterman. He shares insights into his early start in fishing at the age of eight, the influence of poverty on his decision to enter the fishing industry, and his extensive experience of over 52 years in the business. He recounts his time at the Maritime Academy, his work on research ships in the South Pole, and his involvement in preparing equipment on bomb ships in Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan. Additionally, he mentions his work in an office in New Jersey and his continued fishing activities whenever he was at home.  Robbins also talks about the dangerous nature of lobster fishing, recounting instances where he lost crew members overboard and the challenges he faced in rescuing them. He describes the type of boat he currently uses, a narrow fiberglass thirty-six foot lobster boat, and the evolution of fishing equipment and technology, particularly the use of electronics for navigation. When asked about the highlights of his job, Robins emphasizes the freedom it provides and the ability to benefit directly from his work. He discusses the size of traps used, his fishing location in Stonington, Maine, and his affiliation with the Stonington Lobster Corporation. He mentions the various creatures he catches, including lobsters, crabs, and codfish, as well as unexpected discoveries such as sponges and coral. Robbins shares details about the protective gear he uses, particularly during inclement weather, and the conservation measures employed to protect lobsters and comply with regulations, including breakaway gear and large vents to release small lobsters. The interview concludes with Robins expressing his satisfaction with his chosen profession and his response to questions about his average daily or weekly catch. He also briefly mentions his frustrations with dealing with banks and insurance companies.