Redfish Rocks Community Tour

11. Commercial Fishing

Port Orford, OR

My name is Aaron Longton and I have been a commercial fisherman here in Port Orford for 22 years. My boat - the bright blue one with the orange trim - is named the Golden Eye, and if you don't see her here on the dock, it is because I am out fishing. I am a fisherman because I love the ocean, and I love seafood and providing it to my friends and family. I also love it because it is me working with nature. I fish here in Port Orford because it is the wildest place here in southern Oregon where I grew up. I fish mainly for black cod, also known as sablefish, using hook-and-line gear; baited hooks suspended just off the ocean floor. I also fish for salmon using troll gear - this is where you make way while pulling lures to attract the fish. My favorite thing about working as a fisherman is that I am my own boss and I get out of it what I put into it. The best thing about fishing here in Port Orford is the camaraderie and good-hearted competition amongst local fishermen. They are all my friends and neighbors. I was one of the fishermen involved in the development of the Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve, and I am pleased to see the reserve and MPA live up to its promise as a living laboratory where scientists and students work with commercial fishermen like myself to deepen our understanding of this special place and the fish that call it home. I look forward to learning more as the years go by. I hope you enjoyed your visit to our special dock, and be sure to watch your step! And remember folks: eat local fish!