A strong sou’easter wind intensified rapidly, causing choppy waves during a lobster fishing expedition off Aldouane, N.B. My mother, in good spirits, advised, “Drive her like you stole her!” As we navigated swiftly to stabilize the boat, I nervously chuckled, grateful to cut our fishing trip short amidst the turbulent waters.
Sitting at the lunch table, we enjoyed a brief moment until we had to make a sharp turn, leading us to be hit by waves from the side. With my mother’s urgent warning, I tightly clung to a metal pole as the boat lurched violently, lifting me off the ground. Despite the intense situation, my mother skillfully steered us back on course, averting a potential disaster.
After safely navigating to the calmer Richibucto River, we laughed in relief, having just survived a perilous ordeal together. Nearby, a boat had sunk, but the crew was rescued. The incident left an uneasy feeling, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the ocean.
In a male-dominated industry, being a female deckhand, like my mother, is a source of pride. Despite facing skepticism and superstitions about women at sea, my mother’s determination led her to become one of the few female captains in New Brunswick. Inspired by her, I joined her as a deckhand, finding solace and fulfillment in fishing.
Fishing, though perilous, offers moments of tranquility and prayer amidst the vast expanse of the sea. It is a profession that demands respect for its dangers and rewards. My mother’s pioneering role has paved the way for women like me to enter the industry, bonding us in our shared courage to face the challenges of the ocean daily.
As I continue my fishing journey alongside my mother, we brace for uncertainties in a volatile industry. Despite the risks, we find joy, beauty, and triumphs in our work as sailors, dedicated to our craft and the bounty of the sea. And perhaps one day, I too will proudly bear the title of captain.
