How long have you been fishing? How did you get into the industry?
My parents started in the industry in the early 80s so I grew up around it. I always knew that I wanted to be a fisherman. I just finished my 9th season in the Bering Sea and I started tendering 16 years ago.
What boat are you on?
I own and operate the F/V Brenna A. I also own the F/V Jennifer A, the Elinore J and a Puget Sound Dungeness boat, the F/V Breezy J.
Fun fact about you:
My wife and I are getting ready to have our first child. A baby girl due in August.
How many fisheries do you actively participate in?
Red King Crab, Bairdi, Oplio, Dungeness and Pacific Cod
What is your favorite part about this job?
My favorite part about the job is the moment in time when the block is turning and the pot is on its way up and you don't know what it's going to look like. The anticipation and constant strategy involved in fishing drives me to keep going.
Crab fishing can be a dangerous job. Can you describe what makes you feel safe while out at sea?
I trust the boat and its abilities. I also trust myself to make good decisions to keep me and my crew safe. We try not to take unnecessary risks and you have to always be evaluating every situation.
If you could pass along one piece of advice to your younger self as if you were just starting out in the industry, what would it be and why?
Well I'm not that old yet so I don't have a long career to reflect on. But something I recently told my younger cousin who is starting out was "if you pay attention to the small details then the big picture will come easy." There's a lot going on all at once when you're working on a boat and it's easy to overlook things. The details keep the boat running smoothly and everyone safe.
