Landlubbers tackle commercial fishing
in Sea Grant's Coastweeks event

NARRAGANSETT-- September 13, 2000 -- The stormy view of commercial fishing presented in a certain summer movie might give landlubbers second thoughts about a day at sea. But Rhode Island Sea Grant has a commercial fishing experience in store that promises the realism without the drama.

As part of Coastweeks 2000, Sea Grant is sponsoring bottom-trawling excursions aboard the Cap'n Bert, the University of Rhode Island Fisheries department's research vessel. Two half-day trawls are scheduled for Saturday, September 23. The morning trip runs from 8:30 a.m. till noon; the afternoon trawl runs from 1 to 4:30 p.m. The boat departs promptly from Wickford Shipyard, 125 Steamboat Avenue, Wickford.

Bottom trawling is a common commercial fishing method that collects fish in a net dragged along the seabed. Participants will work this equipment-regulation, commercial-sized bottom-trawl gear-and will examine a catch that showcases the biological diversity of Narragansett Bay. At the end of the trip, participants can sort through the summer flounder, striped bass, tautog, bluefish, squid, crabs, and other species to choose a fish to take home.

The excursion is led by David Beutel, Sea Grant research associate and former fisherman. Beutel advises participants to wear boots and gloves and other attire appropriate for handling gear and fish.

Cost of the excursion is $10 for adults; $5 for children. Space is limited, so reservations are required. Call (401) 874-7152 by September 21 to reserve a space.

Coastweeks, in its 19th year, is an annual celebration designed to foster public awareness of the nation's shores, their uses, and their need for careful management. Sea Grant is a federal-state collaboration supporting research, education, and outreach on marine issues for the public benefit.

For Information, Tony Corey, (401) 874-6844, tonyc@gso.uri.edu