May 13, 2021 — The commercial fishing industry is a lifeline for many coastal communities in North Carolina.
According to a study from NC State University, the fishing industry provides nearly $300 million to the state’s economy and employs more than 5,000 people.
However, many commercial fishermen feel like they’ve been playing defense for a decade, fighting for their livelihood.
“It’s a hard day to fight when you get up and you know you’re fighting for your survival every day, and you’re regulated to the point where you can barely make it,” said Doug Cross.
Cross runs Pamlico Packing Company with his brother. He grew up around the docks in Vandemere and started helping out at the family business when he was 13.
“I’ve seen years where the boats were a liability, and I’ve seen years where the boats were a blessing,” said Cross.