Tony Sougstad is a seasoned fisherman and the captain of the boat E.T. He is also the owner, chief cook, and bottle washer of the boat. His fishing activities are strictly ocean-based and vary by the seasons. He mainly fishes for whiting and fluke. Sougstad is also skilled in making nets and other necessary fishing gear. He is a dedicated worker, emphasizing the importance of perseverance even during tough times. Sougstad is also involved in the marketing side of his business, selling his catch to various markets, including the New York Fulton Fish Market. In addition to his fishing activities, Sougstad is a mentor to his crew. He speaks highly of his crew member Cory, who he describes as a bit wild but growing up. Sougstad is also preparing to train his son to work on the boat.

Scope and Content Note:
May 8, 1987: This interview with Tony Sougstad provides an in-depth look into his life as a fisherman. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the types of fish he catches, the gear he uses, and the seasonal nature of his work. Sougstad also discusses his relationships with his crew members and his plans to train his son to join the business. The interview also touches on the business side of Sougstad's work, including his involvement in marketing and selling his catch. The conversation provides valuable insights into the life and work of a professional fisherman, making it a useful resource for those interested in maritime occupations, small business operations, and mentorship in trade professions.

May 22, 1987: This interview with Tony Sougstad provides a detailed account of the dangers and challenges associated with the fishing profession. Sougstad discusses the high mortality rate among fishermen, making it one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, according to insurance companies. He shares personal experiences of near-death incidents, such as falling through ice and navigating through ice floes. Sougstad also discusses the harsh weather conditions fishermen often face, including fishing in seven-degree weather and dealing with thick ice that can damage boats. He also recounts an incident where a boat hit an iceberg and barely made it back to the dock. In addition to discussing the dangers of the profession, Sougstad also talks about getting stuck on a bar and the potential for a boat to roll over. He shares an incident where the boat he was on almost went over, but was saved by the outriggers. The interview also touches on the interpersonal dynamics within the fishing industry. Sougstad mentions the difficulty of breaking into the industry and the camaraderie among those already in the business]. He also talks about his hopes of passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation, specifically mentioning two individuals, Cory and Joey.