The new National Fisherman Wheelhouse Booth at the 2023 Pacific Marine Expo has been perfectly tailored to your wants and needs. You can sit in on one or all the intimate educational sessions surrounding specific pressing topics in the commercial fishing community. The Dockside Chats will give you more personal access to the presenter and the ability to ask specific questions about your operations and business. These custom small group discussions will cover topics on finance and loans, community support, women of the industry, and more.

Wednesday and Thursday, find the best Dockside Chat to fit your needs:

Wednesday

11:00 AM – DOCKSIDE CHAT - NF Wheelhouse Booth #150

Money for Fishing: Selling Direct, Grant Applications, and More

Chat with Advisory Board Members Bri Dwyer and Matt Alward. Fishermen who attend this session will gain insights into what it means for them to do and stay in business as markets, industries, and entire sectors shift and evolve. Attendees will learn how direct marketing can take your business to the next level.

12:15 PM – DOCKSIDE CHAT - NF Wheelhouse Booth #150

Planning Your Next Large Purchase that Needs Financing

The First Fed Maritime Lending team will discuss financing topics and frequently ask questions about the loan process for fishing quotas, permits, new vessels, or large shipyard projects. This chat is your chance to consult with bankers specializing in maritime lending.

3:45 PM both Wednesday & Thursday – DOCKSIDE CHAT - NF Wheelhouse Booth #150

Partners of Commercial Fisherman Parlor

Join Megan Waldrep in sharing tips and tricks to survive your fishing partner’s busy season. Tell stories about what it’s like living in the commercial fishing community and find a supportive community of fellow partners of commercial fishermen.

Thursday

12:00 pm – DOCKSIDE CHAT - NF Wheelhouse Booth #150

Women in Commercial Fishing Spotlight

Spotlight women in the commercial fishing industry with Founder of Seafood and Gender Equality (SAGE), Julie Kuchepatov. SAGE envisions a more inclusive seafood industry and empowers women to lead an abundant supply of environmentally and socially responsible seafood for future generations.

2:00 pm – DOCKSIDE CHAT - NF Wheelhouse Booth #150

The Buoying of the Fleet: Engaging the Next Generation of Commercial Fishermen

Join Trisha Whetstone of the BC Young Fishermen’s Network in exploring the challenges of the “graying of the fleet.” Discussing barriers to entry, regulations, finances, and insights on education, mentorship, and sustainability will engage a crowd searching for solutions.

3:45 PM both Wednesday & Thursday – DOCKSIDE CHAT - NF Wheelhouse Booth #150

Partners of Commercial Fisherman Parlor

Join Megan Waldrep in sharing tips and tricks to survive your fishing partner’s busy season. Tell stories about what it’s like living in the commercial fishing community and find a supportive community of fellow partners of commercial fishermen.