In this episode, Manny sits down with David Bayes, a lifelong Alaskan fisherman, charter captain, and one of the most visible leaders in the movement to reform Alaska’s trawl bycatch system. David grew up in Homer, spent more than two decades working on the water, and now helps lead the statewide conversation through the rapidly growing Stop Alaskan Trawler Bycatch Facebook group.
Manny and David break down what trawling actually is, how it differs from other commercial fishing methods, and why bycatch has become one of the most urgent fisheries issues in Alaska. David explains the staggering scale of what is pulled from Alaska’s waters every year, the loopholes and regulatory structures that allow it, and why many Alaskans initially don’t believe the numbers—until they see the data themselves.
They dive into the impacts on subsistence families, sport fishermen, charter operators, coastal communities, and even trawl crew members who have quietly come forward to say the same thing: something has to change. The conversation also explores the politics of the North Pacific Fishery Management Council, the role of Alaska’s governor, federal oversight, and the influence of major seafood corporations.
At its core, this episode is about stewardship, transparency, and protecting the future of Alaska’s fisheries. Manny and David discuss what meaningful change could look like, how everyday Alaskans can get involved, and why awareness is the key to shifting policy.
If you care about Alaska’s fish, its communities, or its future, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
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