In South Atlantic fishing communities, women have emerged as a cooperative voice, unifying previously disconnected industry elements. Fishing is stereotypically viewed as male-dominated, but research suggests women participate in land-based post-processing, management, and finances. These shore-based roles allow for strong familial and community ties where multi-generational groups cooperate for industry sustainability. This project analyzes the oral history and qualitative data describing a fishing industry supported by women as wives, kinsfolk, dock managers, fishers, and crew. Data suggest that familial and financial motivations might initially pull women into the industry, but community tipping points further drive female-led bridge-building within fishing communities.
