The Rise and Fall of the Pacific Ocean Perch: The History of the R/V John N. Cobb and Exploratory Fishing (1950-1970)

Step aboard the research vessel (R/V) John N. Cobb and journey through a transformative era of marine exploration. In this riveting account, marine biologist Charles Robert "Bob" Hitz takes readers deep into the world of exploratory fishing during the pivotal decade of 1960 to 1970. As the U.S. struggled to understand and manage its ocean resources, Pacific Ocean perch-a species long associated with freshwater-became the focus of innovative fishing techniques aimed at reshaping industry and consumer demand.Set against the tense backdrop of the Cold War, this book sheds light on the growing presence of the Soviet fishing fleet along the U.S. Pacific coast, the alarming consequences of overfishing, and the geopolitical forces that led to the landmark extension of the 200-mile limit. Hitz also chronicles the Cobb's historic discovery of the Cobb Seamount off the Washington Coast.Though exploratory fishing research was officially abolished in 1970, its legacy remains a critical piece of fisheries history. For historians, students, and anyone fascinated by the untold stories of oceanic exploration, this book uncovers the forgotten events of the catalytic year 1966-when the fate of Pacific Ocean perch took a dramatic turn, forever altering U.S. fisheries. Read more