Tim Birarelli, Tom Birarelli, Robbie Budds (ages 21, 18, and 21 at the time of the interview) are lobstermen in Beverly, MA. Tim and Tom grew up lobstering with their father, who passed away when they were in their teens. They continued running and eventually expanding the family fishing businesses, and they supply fresh seafood to their mother's restaurant. Robbie met Tim through a hockey league while in high school, and the two brothers helped him get set up with a lobster boat and taught him everything they know. Now, the three young fishermen captain their individual boats, but they work as a team, sharing knowledge and experimenting together with new fisheries such as scallops. Robbie credits Tim and Tom's friendship for enabling him to build a successful fishing career before even graduating from college.

Scope and Content Note

Tom Birarelli, Tim Birarelli, and Robbie Budds discuss their experiences in the fishing industry. The interview covers various topics including their backgrounds, entry into fishing, vessels, education, and passion for fishing. They highlight the addictive nature of fishing, the allure of the job, financial potential, and the freedom of being self-employed. They also discuss the impact of their father's passing on their fishing careers and the importance of mentorship from experienced relatives who have been lifelong fishermen.

They primarily engage in day boat lobstering and have ventured into scalloping as an additional income source due to regulations and the potential for year-round fishing. The fishermen discuss their transition away from gillnetting, citing increasing regulations as the main reason. They mention a specific regulation that significantly limited their fishing days at sea, making gillnetting financially unsustainable. They voice concerns about the future of the lobster industry, emphasizing the need for diversification and alternative fishing options.

Financial challenges and the disparity in funding and lobbying power between fishermen and environmental groups are also discussed. The fishermen express concerns about the disadvantage they face and emphasize the importance of unity among fishermen to advocate for a balanced approach that allows for sustainable fishing practices. They highlight the economic significance of the fishing industry to the local economy and stress the need for a more balanced approach that considers conservation and the sustainability of the fishing industry.