Tori Pilger
Accompanied At Sea: Voices from the Northeast Fisheries Observer Program
For 40 years, fisheries observers have sailed with New England fishermen, documenting catches and practices. Despite being outsiders, they offer a unique perspective on fisheries management. They work with various gear types, from trawls to lobster pots, covering a wide range of species. In a month, they travel from Maine to North Carolina, meeting diverse crews from around the world. This project shares their untold stories, shedding light on the fishing industry from a different angle.
National Capital Contracting
Tori Pilger is a marine biologist who worked as an observer for the Northeast Fisheries Science Center fishery monitoring Operations Branch. Pilger graduated from college with a degree in marine biology and moved to Texas before joining the observer program through East West Technical Services. Pilger trained in 2018 and spent three years as an observer, primarily on single-day trips on scalloping day boats due to chronic seasickness. Despite the challenges, Pilger found the job to be one of the best experiences, providing a unique perspective on the fishing industry and the opportunity to witness rare natural phenomena. Pilger eventually left the observer position due to the constant seasickness but continues to work in the field of marine biology.
Scope and Content Note
This oral history interview with Tori Pilger, conducted on November 1, 2022, provides an in-depth look into the life and experiences of an observer in the Northeast Fisheries Science Center fishery monitoring Operations Branch. Pilger discusses the journey from college graduation to becoming an observer, including the intense training process and the realities of the job. Pilger shares personal experiences on the sea, from dealing with chronic seasickness to witnessing the beauty of bioluminescent sea jellies during a night trip. The interview also touches on the challenges faced, such as the unpredictable schedule and the physical demands of the job. Pilger provides insight into the fishing industry from an observer's perspective, highlighting the unique aspects of the job that most people don't get to see. The interview also explores Pilger's interactions with fishermen and their perspectives on the industry and life. Pilger's family's support for the career choice, despite being based in the Midwest, is also discussed. The interview concludes with Pilger's decision to leave the observer position due to the constant seasickness but the continued passion for marine biology.
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