At the summit young fishermen are not only learning the basic tricks of fishing but also getting full knowledge of managing a commercial fishing business, understanding seafood markets, knowing how to navigate the regulatory system ’96. These are the things that the summit has taught to young fishermen.
The summit is a brainchild of the Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Programme, which is designed to help develop business, policy, safety and marketing knowledge among the next generation of Alaska seafood harvesters. The summit was attended by more than 65 fishermen where they took part in presentations, small group discussions and networking opportunities with industry experts, experienced fishermen and government regulators.
Eric Lian, an attendee, said that the summit was amazing as it offers a lot to learn about the politics of fishing, making better business decisions. Torie Baker of Alaska Sea Grant and a member of the steering committee informed that the turnout was great as the fishermen from 26 coastal communities have gathered to make the event a grand occasion.
The summit also showcased wide range of industry groups helped with materials and participant scholarships as well as speakers. The governor’s fisheries advisor Cora Crome was also there to encourage fishermen to get into the skin of the trade and join the local organization. There are renowned speakers on fishing industry like Robin Samuelson, lifelong Bristol Bay fisherman and CEO of Ocean Beauty Seafoods; Arne Fuglvog, a Petersburg fishermen and aide to Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska; and current United Fishermen of Alaska Vice President Deborah Lyons.
