New documentary takes deep dive into ‘unique’ niche of Great Lakes commercial fisheries in Ontario
A marine researcher from Dalhousie University recently released a captivating documentary titled “Last Boat on the Lake.” The film takes a deep dive into North America’s largest freshwater commercial fishing fleet located in Ontario’s Great Lakes, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities faced by local fisheries in sustaining the industry.
Hannah Harrison, the creator of the documentary and an associate professor at Dalhousie University, emphasized the importance of understanding the significant contribution of commercial fisheries to the local food chain in Ontario and across Canada. Harrison, who hails from a commercial salmon fishing family in Alaska, expressed her surprise at the lack of awareness among Ontarians regarding their locally sourced seafood.
“Last Boat on the Lake” provides a character-driven narrative of commercial fishers operating along Lakes Ontario, Erie, and Huron. The hour-long documentary, produced in collaboration with Saugeen First Nation, explores both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous aspects of the fishing industry, highlighting the unique homegrown nature of Ontario’s freshwater commercial fishery.
One of the key issues addressed in the film is the difficulty faced by local fishers in recruiting the next generation of workers. Rick Misner, a seasoned fisherman from Port Dover, underscored the challenges arising from seasonal work and industry changes, making it increasingly challenging to sustain a livelihood in fishing.
Moreover, environmental factors such as climate change have led to shifts in fish populations, impacting the abundance of species like smelts in Lake Erie. Misner lamented the drastic decrease in smelt populations over the past 25 years, posing a threat to the sustainability of his fishing operations.
The documentary also delves into the conflicts arising from waterfront development encroaching on fishing infrastructure. Harrison highlighted how the expansion of tourism and other industries along coastlines is displacing essential facilities for fishers, jeopardizing their access to the lakes.
Despite these challenges, Harrison hopes that “Last Boat on the Lake” will raise awareness among Ontarians about the value of local fisheries. As Canadians increasingly prioritize shopping and eating local produce, the documentary serves as a reminder of the vital role played by commercial fisheries in sustaining regional food systems.
By showcasing the interconnectedness between zoning regulations, development projects, and commercial fisheries, Harrison aims to foster a greater appreciation for Ontario’s freshwater industry. Ultimately, the documentary underscores the significance of supporting local fisheries in feeding not only Ontarians but also the broader Great Lakes region and beyond.
