Tom King is a seasoned fisherman who dedicated his career to the commercial fishing industry. Born into a family with a deep connection to Newfoundland and a long history in fishing, Tom's love for the sea and the fishing trade runs in his blood. In 1968, after working as a fish lumper on the waterfront for eight years, Tom decided to venture into fishing himself. His first fishing experience in February 1969, aboard the fishing vessel Angela W, left a lasting impression on him. Although he faced the challenges of seasickness during the trip, he persevered and found himself captivated by the fishing industry. Tom's dedication and determination paid off, as the trip turned out to be the most successful one the boat had ever seen, earning him a substantial sum of money. From that moment on, he was hooked. Tom's fishing career spanned from 1968 to 1984, during which he worked as an engineer, deckhand, and occasionally as a mate on various fishing vessels. He formed close relationships with fellow fishermen and gained a wealth of experience in working with fishing gear and fixing nets.

Scope and Content Note
This interview with Tom King, conducted on September 25, 2004, covers a range of topics related to his experiences as a commercial fisherman. The interview provides insights into the fishing industry, the changes it underwent over time, and the impact of regulations on fishermen and fish populations. Tom King shares personal anecdotes and reflections on his career, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of working in the fishing industry. The interview begins with Tom King's background, including his initial role as a lumper and his family's connection to fishing. He discusses memorable experiences at sea, particularly a trip affected by rough weather, and his transition from fishing to the food service industry, where he worked for 18 years before retiring and going on disability. The conversation then delves into the evolution of fishing practices, with a focus on the shift from wooden to steel boats and the corresponding changes in boat accommodations. Tom recounts a crisis involving Russian factory ships in the early 1970s and the impact of foreign boats on fish supplies. He highlights the role of federal regulations in managing catch and crew size and reflects on the differences between regulations in the past and present. Tom King shares personal insights into the joys and challenges of fishing, including the camaraderie among fishermen and the financial allure that initially drew him to the industry. He discusses the importance of being smart with money and the beneficial aspects of regulations in terms of maintaining market prices. The interview also explores various aspects of the fishing industry, such as the impact of supply and demand, weather conditions, and the costs associated with running a fishing boat. Tom discusses licenses, boatyards, and the shift from wooden to steel boats, emphasizing the revitalization of New Bedford through the latter. He touches upon the revival of the scallop industry and expresses his belief that fishermen themselves can be their own worst enemy if limits and quotas are removed. Additionally, the interview highlights the significance of passing on traditional knowledge, such as net mending, and touches on subjects such as women in fishing, beliefs around bad luck, and the importance of preserving the fishing heritage for future generations. Tom’s perspectives on the industry, regulations, and the need to ensure sustainable fishing practices provide valuable context and a firsthand account of the challenges faced by fishermen.