Name: SAM LAMBOURN
Q: When did you become a manager?
A: In 1978, when I bought my first boat. Back then, provided you were willing to take the risk, you could do it. From a regulatory point of view, it's much harder for people to start up these days. You have to keep a fish track record quota, etc.
Q: What does management mean to you?
A: It's about finding the right crew - your life depends on it. There's very little room for error at sea. The trick is to anticipate things. Whatever you're told, you have to do it. I own the boat and make the decisions, but the crew shares what the boat makes. You have to be co-operative - like tenants on common land. The industry is in decline because stocks are overfished. Managing that balance correctly is the main challenge.
Q: What do you love/hate about it?
A: I love the freedom and the unforgiving nature of it - get it right, or you don't get anything at all. I hate it when the boat breaks down. Also, physically, it can be damned uncomfortable!
