Many California fishermen are nearing retirement. Can the industry save its graying fleet?

Many California fishermen are nearing retirement, raising questions about whether the coastal fishing industry can replace its aging workforce. The article describes conditions in San Diego waters, including choppy surf off La Jolla, as fisherman Shane Volberding works to land yellowtail prized in sushi markets. His deckhand, Destiny Louise Silva, helps handle another yellowtail, reinforcing how the work relies on experienced crews during demanding fishing conditions. While the piece provides a snapshot of day-to-day labor, it frames the broader issue as a looming demographic challenge that threatens continuity for both seafood supply and local livelihoods. The industry’s tenuous nature, despite its coastal location, is presented as a key concern for the future.