Jordan Belveal

4TH GENERATION FISHERMAN

Home Port: Nanaimo, BC | Vessel Name: Blue Bayou

“Fishing is also a lifestyle and it is so very rewarding to pass down this cultural identity, heritage and knowledge about our resource to my kids and the next generations.”

1. When and how did you start fishing?
My parents are fishermen and I literally grew up on the fishing boat. I started off in my playpen on the boat and then officially starting working as a fisherman when I was 12.

2. Where do you usually fish?
Typically along the coasts of Haida Gwaii, Queen Charlotte Sound, and West Coast Vancouver Island

3. What is the best thing about fishing?
I am very proud to provide a quality food product. My wife and I recently started selling some of our wild Pacific halibut directly to the consumer through our business, Island Wild Seafoods, and it is so gratifying to hear our customers’ comments about the quality halibut we are providing.

Fishing is also a lifestyle and it is so very rewarding to pass down this cultural identity, heritage and knowledge about our resource to my kids and the next generations.

4. What is your most memorable fishing experience?
The most memorable experience for me was my son’s very first fishing trip. He was 12 at the time and I will remember everything about this trip. Your first trip out is something that you as a fisherman and parent never forget.

5. What do you believe everyone should know about wild Pacific halibut and the fishery?
It is important for the public to know that the wild Pacific halibut fishery is so well managed and monitored. Our halibut is a highly sustainable product and a renewal resource.

6. What do you believe are the most important issues facing the wild Pacific halibut industry today?
I believe that we need to educate the public more about the sustainability of the fishery to address the public’s perception which isn’t always accurate or complete. I also believe that wild Pacific halibut fishermen need to have more of a voice and influence when it comes to decisions being made about the industry.

7. How would you describe the future of the wild Pacific halibut fishery?
Really bright! The monitoring and fisheries integration measures in place ensure that every species within the groundfish fishery - including halibut - are accounted for and within the total allowable catch each year.

8. What three words/phrases best describe the wild Pacific halibut fishery today?
Sustainable
Provides a quality food product
Brings people together in a sense of community

1. What was your first job?
Fishing at the age of 12

2. What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not fishing?
Doing anything outdoors like skiing, snowshoeing, camping and hiking

3. What is your favourite meal to eat on the boat when fishing?
Pork chops simmered in onions and mushroom soup with mashed potatoes

4. What is your favourite wild Pacific halibut dish?
Wild Pacific halibut with a lemon-dill sauce

5. What is your favourite movie or TV show of all time?
The Office

6. What is your favourite song or who is your favourite artist?
The Tragically Hip

7. What skill or craft would you like to master?
Welding

8. Who is your hero and why?
My dad for many reasons but specifically for the work ethnic he instilled in me