As climate change and high costs plague Alaska's fisheries, fewer young people take up the trade

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

KODIAK, Alaska (AP) — Lane Bolich first came to work in Alaska for the freedom and excitement that comes with being a fisher.

A self-described adrenaline junkie, Bolich moved from his hometown in rural Washington state because he loves being on the ocean even in cold winter weather and it gave him the chance to make more money than back home. After working as a deckhand for two years on a family friend’s boat, Harmony, he took the wheel as captain this year at just 20 years old.

Bolich is a rarity in an aging industry with high barriers to entry — equipment and access rights are costly — and increasing unpredictability as human-caused climate change alters marine habitats. As some fish populations dwindle and fewer people pursue the trade, fishers and conservation groups are actively working to bring in and retain the next generation of fishers through grants and training even as the industry continues to shrink in Alaska.

For the young people who do become commercial fishers, many see it as a way to make good money for a short time, while some others have a desire to sustain the industry for the long term in a way that benefits both fishers and fisheries. But with the obstacles outweighing the perks, young fishers are in short supply.

https://apnews.com/article/alaska-fisheries-climate-change-young-people-7bfdb8826e49e8fa16349cc2e166aad7

[Walleye]

1. I worked on a salmon boat in Bristol Bay in the 80s

It was going through a transition then because the fisherman were becoming independent, whereas before, the canneries had taken care of them and even owned some of the boats. It was great for me we made pretty good money it was only because my boyfriend’s father had a permit and a boat. Hard and dangerous work though.

[Bobstandard]

2. The fish are disappearing

And of course it’s no fault of the fishermen. In fact, it’s our fault for imposing regulations and restrictions.

[FloridaBlues]

3. Very hard work and less fish to catch unfortunately. In time perhaps it will improve