Terry Huie

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Wild Caught: The Life and Struggles of an American Fishing Town

Description

For 300 years, the fishermen of Sneads Ferry, N.C., 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.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
07-19-2000
Transcribers

National Capital Contracting

Principal Investigator
Audio
Transcript
Video
Abstract

Matthew Barr interviewed Terry Huie for the Wild Caught project. Terry Huie is a resident of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, and married to Paul Huie, a lifelong commercial fisherman. Originally from New York, Terry moved to North Carolina after meeting Paul, who was connected to her sister's family through the Marine Corps. In this interview, Terry shares her experiences and perspectives on being part of a fishing family. She discusses the challenges and changes in the fishing industry over the years, particularly noting the increasing regulations and financial burdens placed on fishermen. Terry highlights the unpredictable nature of the industry, where income is heavily influenced by weather conditions and regulatory changes. She recounts the difficulties her family faced during hurricanes and the aftermath, which often left the fishing areas closed and the nets damaged. Throughout the interview, Terry reflects on the impact of new regulations on the fishing industry, expressing concerns about the future viability of commercial fishing as a livelihood. She also discusses the misconceptions about fishermen, particularly regarding environmental issues such as the decline of sea turtle populations. Terry argues that other factors, like coastal development, play a significant role in these environmental changes.


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