3RD GENERATION FISHERMAN

Home Port: Prince Rupert, BC | Vessel Name: Mystic Era

“I love being outdoors with the amazing scenery and marine life, especially the whales and dolphins. The best thing, however, is working with my family and especially
my dad.”

1. When and how did you start fishing?
As a third generation fisherman, I started going out on the boat with my family when I was very young, but started fishing during the summers when I was 14 and then full-time right after high-school.

2. Where do you usually fish?
I typically fish at the top end of Haida Gwaii in Dixon Entrance and sometimes in Hecate Strait.

3. What is the best thing about fishing?
I love being outdoors with the amazing scenery and marine life, especially the whales and dolphins. The best thing, however, is working with my family and especially my dad. My dad is now in his 70s and fishing is his life and, although he has some health challenges, he will still come out on the boat with us. My young niece and nephew who are preteens will be coming out this summer which will be great. And then there is the crew who has become like our family - one crew member has been fishing with us for 42 years. My first child was just born in the summer and I can’t tell you how much I look forward to having him join us fishing as well.

4. What is your most memorable fishing experience?
Some of my most memorable experiences are related to when we see marine life while out on the boat. One day we had a super pod of about 300 to 400 dolphins going by our boat and then when we were heading from Triple Island to Prince Rupert we came across 70 to 80 humpback whales. We shut down the boat, just drifted through the water and they came right up to us. It was unbelievable.

My other most memorable moments are definitely good times spent together as family.

5. What do you believe everyone should know about wild Pacific halibut and the fishery?
There are several things, including how well managed and sustainable the fishery is. There is so much science that supports the fishery and it is not overfished. I would also like people to know how much everyone in the industry truly cares about the resource.

6. What do you believe are the most important issues facing the wild Pacific halibut industry today?
First Nations are already a big part of the industry and Indigenous Reconciliation will mean they will be an even larger part in the future, but how it happens will take full engagement with the industry to make it work for all participations, Indigenous and non-Indigenous. I also believe that decisions around marine protected areas continue to be important, requiring a collaborative approach.

7. How would you describe the future of the wild Pacific halibut fishery?
The future looks really good. The comprehensive scientific models provided by the International Pacific Halibut Commission’s Marine Strategy Advisory Board suggest that the future of the resource looks healthy.

8. What three words best describe the wild Pacific halibut fishery today?
Very well managed

1. What was your first job?
Fishing

2. What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not fishing?
Skiing and hunting

3. What is your favourite meal to eat on the boat when fishing?
Homemade Chinese food prepared on-board

4. What is your favourite wild Pacific halibut dish?
Breaded wild Pacific halibut simply seasoned with salt and pepper

5. What is your favourite movie or TV show of all time?
Star Wars

6. What is your favourite song or who is your favourite artist?
Metallica

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

8. Who is your hero?
My dad!

Robert Hauknes