Maisie McNaughton, a deckhand on a lobster fishing vessel in Aldouane, New Brunswick, recounts a harrowing experience at sea during a storm. Battling rough waves with her mother, a seasoned lobster boat captain, McNaughton vividly describes the moment the boat was hit by unexpected strong currents, sending her into a state of panic as the vessel pitched dangerously.
Despite the ordeal, McNaughton and her mother managed to navigate to calmer waters, reflecting on the perilous nature of their profession. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers fishermen face, with a nearby boat sinking on the same day they were out at sea.
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the maritime industry, McNaughton acknowledges her mother’s pioneering role as one of the first female lobster captains in New Brunswick. Despite facing skepticism and superstitions about women on boats, her mother’s resilience paved the way for McNaughton to follow in her footsteps.
Embracing the challenges and uncertainties of a fisherman’s life, McNaughton finds solace and purpose in the sanctity of the sea. From breathtaking sunrises to treacherous storms, she cherishes the moments of tranquility and danger that define her daily routine.
As a female deckhand in a traditionally male-dominated field, McNaughton acknowledges the progress made by trailblazers like her mother. With a blend of reverence and apprehension, she looks forward to more adventures, close calls, and victories on the open waters, aspiring to one day captain her own vessel.