The new “rationalized” system allots each boat an individual catch quota, which it can fill at its own pace. The system is meant to improve safety and protect the fish stocks.
Seattle is the largest homeport for the North Pacific fishing fleet. Most of it moors in Lake Union or Salmon Bay. A 2004 report for the Seattle Office of Economic Development reported the fleet’s annual “catch usually valued in excess of $1 billion.” The report, authored by Paul Sommers and Derik Andreoli both of the University of Washington, estimated the maritime industry in Seattle directly generates $2.1 billion a year in revenue, and supports over 22,000 jobs.