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For nearly six decades, the Pacific Marine Expo (PME) has proudly stood as the premier commercial marine trade show on the West Coast, welcoming fishermen and mariners from all coasts of the U.S. This exclusive annual event, inspired by the East Coast Fish Expo in Boston, not only mirrors its focus on the inshore fishing industry but also celebrates the significance of offshore fishing, the processing and marketing sectors. It's a testament to the unity of our community from all regions, a community that we value and cherish, making this event a true reflection of our diverse and vibrant industry.

Over the years, PME has emphasized Alaska, the West Coast, and Pacific fisheries but has grown to include fishermen and businesses from the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Gulf, and South Atlantic. With an affiliation with National Fisherman, it has shown original coverage of PME to all monthly visitors, helping to grow the show exponentially.

Fishermen compete in the Coastal Challenge, formally known as the Fisherman of the Year Contest. Photo courtesy of Britton Spark (@couchchronicles)

The expo has been a beacon of inspiration and learning for the commercial fishing community, offering a wealth of educational sessions and special events such as the National Fisherman Highliner ceremony and the Coastal Challenge, formerly known as the Fisherman of the Year contest. PME is a platform that supports all those working on the industry's boat decks and those working for companies that keep fishing vessels running. It's a place where you can learn, grow, and be inspired by the best in the industry, a place that will ignite your passion and drive for the work you do.

Throughout its history, PME has been a catalyst for innovation in the commercial fishing industry. The introduction of advanced technology to keep vessels up to date and in line with the times has not only inspired the PME and National Fisherman team to revamp the logo but has also sparked a wave of modernization in this centuries-old show, inspiring and propelling the industry forward.

The National Fisherman content team is eagerly accepting proposals for speakers for the Pacific Marine Expo Conference Program. We highly value your unique perspectives and experiences as commercial fishermen from numerous different fisheries. In the past, the sessions have been enriched by fishermen’s stories, industry challenges, regulatory changes, new technology and gear, and the essence of working on the water. Your voice is not just important to us; it's crucial. We look forward to hearing from you and incorporating your insights into our program.

The content team looks forward to organizing ideas and putting together in-depth coverage of topics you see daily as a small business owner, owner-operator, or individual specializing in all things the commercial fishing industry. Some topics may include:

  • boatbuilding
  • climate change impacting fishing seasons
  • fishing gear
  • marketing & selling your catch
  • new technology
  • next generation fishermen
  • power & propulsion
  • regional issues
  • regulations
  • safety & survival
  • education on current and future industry needs

To submit a proposal or reach the content team with further questions, email [email protected]

The Pacific Marine Expo has new developments for 2024, as well as a new logo. The team looks forward to sharing the show dates soon! Photo courtesy of Britton Spark (@couchchronicles)

Another addition will include WorkBoat West, which will fully engage the entire maritime world at PME. The International WorkBoat Show happens once a year in New Orleans, propelling the industry forward by welcoming commercial vessel owners, operators, builders, vendors, and suppliers all in one location. Bringing a taste of WorkBoat out west will help connect commercial fishermen to other commercial mariners through sessions and WorkBoat themes each day of the show, including Maritime Blue, all things shipyard, and military. Adding these industries will help attendees connect with others who are making their living on the water. 

Connect with both old and new friends at this year’s Pacific Marine Expo and join commercial fishermen and mariners from across the country. More than 500 exhibitors will be there, including equipment companies, propulsion, builders and retrofitters, suppliers, and more. The dates are coming soon!

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Carli is a Content Specialist for National Fisherman. She comes from a fourth-generation fishing family off the coast of Maine. Her background consists of growing her own business within the marine community. She resides on one of the islands off the coast of Maine while also supporting the lobster community she grew up in.

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