Something is broken in the economics of the state’s fishing industry and the communities that have long depended upon it. Can Washington come to the rescue?The New York Times reports that Petersburg, Alaska, is a picturesque seaside town situated along the intricate network of fjords and foggy islands that make up the state’s maritime coast. The town’s Scandinavian heritage is evident in its charming statuary and floral designs, and the majestic bald eagles that soar above the narrow strait separating it from a national forest add to its natural beauty. Unlike other popular Alaskan destinations, Petersburg does not have the capacity to accommodate large cruise ships, but it is perfectly positioned for its main industry: fishing.

In the 1800s, Norwegian fishermen settled in Petersburg, drawn to its ideal location for pursuing salmon, crab, and halibut. Today, the town is home to hundreds of fishing vessels that dock and sell their catch to the two major processors in the area. These processors, which have been operating for over a century, head and gut the fish before canning or freezing it for distribution. As the town’s largest private employer, the fishing industry plays a crucial role in sustaining Petersburg’s economy.

Glorianne Wollen, a fisherman’s daughter and a prominent figure in the town, knows the fishing business inside and out. She operates a large crab boat in partnership with others and also serves as the harbor master, working from a small desk in a bustling office with her loyal dog by her side. As a native of Petersburg, Wollen has witnessed significant changes in the town over the years.

“In the good old days, the town was alive with discussion and everyone had a stake in what was going on,” Wollen recalls. “But as boats got bigger and more efficient, and fishermen started pursuing more species and staying out on the water longer, the buzz died down. It takes fewer people to do what used to require a whole crew. There’s just fewer of us now.”

According to The New York Times, the number of people holding permits to commercially harvest fish in Alaska has significantly decreased since the 1980s. Additionally, salmon prices have remained relatively flat for decades, with a significant drop in 2023. This trend is concerning for the future of the fishing industry in Alaska.

The map provided by The New York Times highlights the location of Petersburg in southeastern Alaska, south of the capital city of Juneau. It also shows the nearby city of Ketchikan and the Native community of Metlakatla, which is home to Circle Seafoods. The map also indicates the Bering Sea, the main pollock fishery, and Bristol Bay, the primary source of sockeye salmon, off the west coast of Alaska. 

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