Tom Bergess, a Long Island native, grew up in an area where clamming was a popular occupation, and relocated to Sneads Ferry, North Carolina.  He was inspired to become a clammer by neighbors who were involved in the trade. Bergess has been clamming for approximately thirty years and enjoys the physical labor and the freedom of being his own boss, working on the water, and being outside. He has also been involved in discussions about creating a scholarship fund for high school students and a memorial for fishermen who have lost their lives at sea.

Scope and Content Note
This interview with Tom Bergess offers an in-depth exploration of the clamming industry, highlighting the personal experiences, challenges, and insights of a veteran clammer. The discussion encompasses a wide range of topics relevant to commercial fishing, including the physical and technical aspects of clamming, the socio-economic challenges faced by watermen, and the broader implications of industry regulations and demographic shifts. Bergess provides a firsthand account of the discipline and adaptability required to navigate the uncertainties of the profession, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and the impact of weather conditions on clamming activities. He also delves into the community aspects of the fishing industry, including efforts to support families of fishermen lost at sea and initiatives to foster unity and resilience among commercial fishermen. Bergess discusses the critical issues of industry regulations, the competition with recreational fishermen, and the role of fishermen's associations in advocating for the interests of commercial fishermen.