THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, March 11, 1995 TAG: 9503110284
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B1 EDITION: NORTH CAROLINA
SOURCE: BY LANE DEGREGORY, STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: MOREHEAD CITY LENGTH: Short : 50 lines
Net manufacturers, boat builders and marine resource educators from across the state will try to hook watermen this weekend at the 15th annual North Carolina Commercial Fishing Show.
Held at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City, the two-day festival offers a once-a-year opportunity for commercial fishermen, seafood processors and industry leaders to discuss their business - and help plan the future.
``It's the perfect chance for the fishermen to see a lot of equipment, both existing and new to the market,'' said Bob Peele, deputy director of the North Carolina Fisheries Association, which coordinated the show.
``It's the perfect chance for commercial watermen to exchange thoughts and information with each other, the manufacturers, and leaders in the industry,'' Peele said. ``And unlike other trade shows, many of the items will be offered for immediate sale.''
Last year, about 3,500 people attended the show. Organizers are expecting at least 4,000 to visit the civic center this weekend. They are hoping nonwatermen will attend, too, and promised that members of the general public will be entertained and educated by the offerings.
Events begin at 9 a.m. today and will continue through 6 p.m. On Sunday, the show opens at 10 a.m. and is scheduled to close at 4 p.m. Admission is $2 for adults, free for children 12 and under.
More than 75 commercial fishing gear manufacturers, suppliers and seafood dealers set up booths at the civic center this week. Businesses with both in- and off-shore equipment are displaying their most modern products. Company representatives will be on hand throughout the weekend to answer questions and explain new technological advances in the industry.
One exhibitor plans to demonstrate net-mending techniques. Another will prepare under-utilized seafood species for the public to sample. Plank by plank, a wooden skiff will be built on site so festivalgoers can see the entire construction process. The U.S. Coast Guard will simulate a search and rescue mission in the Bogue Sound. And watermen will swap ``fish house lies'' during two entertaining afternoon sessions.
In an attempt to help enlighten watermen about new regulations and trends in their industry, officials with the UNC Sea Grant College Program are offering four educational seminars this afternoon.
Door prizes - including a new survival suit - will be given away. by CNB