Many people find it hard to relate to the longtime heritage of following in the footsteps of previous family generations. Commercial fishing in Louisiana has been a way of life for some families for hundreds of years and continues today.
Commercial fishing, like farming and other trades that are subject to the elements, is not easy. Hard work continues in all kinds of weather and adverse conditions. Rain or shine, the harvest must be made, whether that means checking traps, baiting lines or dragging trawls. Technology has improved many methods of fishing, but the raw grit and determination it takes to pursue these occupations is the same as it was in the beginning.
This rare drive is born from a deep love of nature and being part of a deep ancestry that shared the same passion. I have fished for a living and know that you get physically tired from it, but never tired of doing it! Each day holds new promise, as to what you might catch and the many natural scenes and encounters you will be a part of.
Commercial fishermen are not that different from most. They wish to care for their children and better their future with the hard work of today. Parents wish to instill in them a respect for nature and an appreciation for being able to follow in the family traditions.
Louisiana families depend on the fertile waters to flourish and continue to provide fresh seafood for all to enjoy. This fertile system is the key to managing sustainable levels of harvest that are so generous. Shrimp, oysters and fish are major players in seafood industry that is driven by coastal and offshore waters, while freshwater produces fish, crawfish and alligators.
Louisiana’s commercial fishermen provide a large portion of the U.S. seafood supply. They are proud of the way they care for their harvest and have branded their seafood as wild caught, sustainable and from Louisiana.
