San Diego’s commercial fishing industry is facing significant challenges, including globalization and declining wages for U.S. fishing captains and their crews. In an effort to reverse this trend, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography started an apprentice program in 2020.
Apprentice Program Details
The program teaches participants a range of skills, including fishing, navigation, engine repair, and business skills. Despite some success, with six out of 11 graduates still working in the industry, the program has faced challenges, including a Covid hiatus and reluctance from some captains to mentor apprentices.
Peter Brownell, a former research director, entered the program and is now working in the industry. He notes that relying solely on commercial fishing for economic needs is a difficult puzzle to solve.
Industry Challenges
The decline of the commercial fishing industry in San Diego is attributed to various factors, including higher wages and stricter regulations in the U.S. compared to other countries. This has resulted in lower prices for imported seafood, making it harder for local fishermen to compete.
Original reporting: Voice of San Diego — read the source article.
