LISTEN

CAPE MAY — The crew of the Barbara-Pauline offloaded 17,000 pounds of scallops, stored like jewelry in soft cloth bags. And for the Port of Cape May, they might as well be white gold.

New Jersey’s fisheries were ranked 11th in total value nationwide at $152 million in 2014. The Port of Cape May, with its valuable scallop fishery, is responsible for much of that.

The Barbara Pauline made its quota in eight days at sea, earning each crew member as much as $15,000.

But it’s not easy money. Commercial fishing is one of America’s most dangerous jobs.

Statistically, fishermen are far more likely to die on the job than those in virtually any other profession.

Read the full story

Have you listened to this article via the audio player above?

If so, send us your feedback around what we can do to improve this feature or further develop it. If not, check it out and let us know what you think via email or on social media.

A collection of stories from guest authors.

Join the Conversation