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The Watermen

Real people. Real waters. Real stories. Meet the working watermen of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries—their families, their boats, their traditions, and the sustainable way they bring seafood from our waters to your table.

Why These Stories Matter

When you know who harvested your seafood, you support stronger coastal communities, sustainable harvests, and a healthier Chesapeake Bay. These stories bring transparency, trust, and tradition to every meal.

AllBy RegionBy SpeciesBy GearLast Fished
Capt. Joe Nelson, featured working waterman

Capt. Joe Nelson

St. George Island, MD.

Target Species

Rockfish/Striped Bass, Perch, Blue Catfish, Bait Fish

Gear

Pound Nets

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Jerry Lukefahr, featured working waterman

Jerry Lukefahr

St. Marys, MD

Target Species

Rockfish, Perch, Catfish, Menhaden, Blue Crabs, Oysters

Gear

Pound Nets, Crab Pot, Tong, Dredge

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Johnny Cakes, featured working waterman

Johnny Cakes

Calloway, MD

Target Species

Rockfish, Perch, Catfish, Menhaden, Blue Crabs, Oysters

Gear

Pound Nets, Crab Pot, Tong, Dredge

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