We're proud to present the film Our Coast, created by Ella Van Cleave with contributions from James Lawson, Cailyn Siider.
Fishing along the coast of British Columbia isn't just an industry; it's a way of life deeply rooted in the region's culture and heritage. The coastal waters of BC provide sustenance, livelihoods for families and communities, and profound connection to the ecosystem.
Despite the deep importance of fishing on the coast, licensing structure on the West Coast presents a growing threat to community-based fishermen. The current structure often favours large corporations, making it harder for community-based fishermen to acquire or maintain licenses. As these licenses become increasingly expensive and limited in availability, it marginalizes those deeply entrenched in their local ecosystems, disrupting generational practices and risking the vitality of coastal communities. The system's tilt toward larger-scale operations overlooks the socio-economic and cultural significance of community-based fishing, jeopardizing not just an occupation but the fabric of coastal livelihoods and heritage.
To learn more about how you can support small scale community based fisheries on the coast of British Columbia visit Fisheries for Communities, a grassroots movement working to bring the benefits of fishing back to fishing communities where they belong.