February 28, 2024 — Local seafood is a favorite in Eastern North Carolina, but with falling prices and more foreign imports local fishermen say they are struggling.
Fishermen battle regulations and imports while trying to keep their business afloat. A fisherman we spoke to says the imported seafood industry squeezes out their ability to provide affordable options.
Monica Smith / Miss Gina’s Fresh Shrimp owner says, “I feel like we’re fighting for the right to go to work. Commercial fishermen get singled out an awful lot. “
Consumers might have to play the ‘price is right’ for locally caught seafood in eastern North Carolina. For fishermen like Kayden Daniels, they are now seeing a potential downturn in business.