BBRSDA gained a valuable new team member this month, we are excited to welcome Mariah Clemens as BBRSDA’s Program Coordinator.

Mariah brings years of professional experience in communications, education and project management with a strong background in community wellness and sustainable fisheries. She has led initiatives in health education, digital engagement, and community partnerships within Alaska, and has hands-on experience managing Bristol Bay salmon operations.

Mariah holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in environmental and biological sciences and is passionate about sustainability and supporting coastal communities. She currently resides in Petersburg, AK.

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BBRSDA’s Frances Bursch asks Mariah about her connection to her work and Bristol Bay salmon:

How long have you fished Bristol Bay? 

My first season in Bristol Bay was in 2014, so I’ve been fishing for 11 years now. Before that I had done some commercial fishing out of Southeast, both gillnetting and seining. I got my first jobs walking the docks and cold-calling skippers. My husband, Jake, and I bought our boat, Epick, in 2019 and have been running the business together for the past 6 years.

What makes you passionate about BBRSDA’s mission? 

Bristol Bay is the best place on earth. It’s where I’ve made some of my best friends and best memories. It’s also allowed my family to carve out a living through commercial fishing. BBRSDA’s mission to increase the value of the fishery benefits all aspects of the fishery I love – the place, the people, and the salmon. Everything BBRSDA does year round to support the fishery has the potential to make a great difference for all of us fishermen making our living during the short and sweet sockeye run.

What is your favorite way to enjoy Bristol Bay Sockeye at home? 

It depends on the time of year! For winter, I’ve started making a Finnish salmon soup recipe lately that is amazing. Fresh dill and leeks make that sockeye flavor pop! In summer, I love eating a grilled fillet that’s been marinated in Yoshida’s teriyaki.

What are some fun stories you’ve had over the years fishing? 

There are a few – 

I got to experience the glory of being top boat for Icicle (back in the day) for around a week, on the Little Fish, a sturdy Marco. Ugashik was great that year and I was working with the best crew ever. The glory of it all lasted until we got paid only 50 cents per pound. I still feel like that season may have just been a dream.

I found out I was pregnant with my first baby just weeks before heading to Bristol Bay in 2018. My husband was crewing with me on the same boat and we decided to just keep it a secret from our skipper. Somehow he didn’t suspect a thing when I suddenly got seasick that season after never having issues before! This baby is now almost 7 years old and, still, when he does anything out of pocket, I blame it on the Nush fishing schedule.  

When you aren’t fishing or working, what can we most likely find you doing? 

You’ll find me chasing around my two kids, running on the backroads and trails of Mitkof island with my dog, or cooking something good in my kitchen.