Exploring the Rich Fishing Heritage of Petersburg, Alaska

Discovering Petersburg, Alaska

Petersburg, Alaska, is a charming seaside town nestled along the intricate web of fjords and mist-covered islands that characterize the maritime coast of the state. With its stunning scenery, the town showcases its proud Scandinavian heritage through beautiful statues and vibrant floral designs. Bald eagles gracefully soar above the narrow strait that separates Petersburg from an expansive national forest, adding to the picturesque landscape.

Unlike larger Alaskan cities like Ketchikan and Juneau, Petersburg lacks the capacity to accommodate giant cruise ships that unload thousands of visitors. However, this quaint town is ideally positioned to support its vital industry: fishing. Founded in the 1800s by Norwegian fishermen, Petersburg has long been recognized as a prime launching point for pursuing salmon, crab, and halibut.

Today, hundreds of fishing vessels dock in the harbor, selling their fresh catches to two major processing plants. These facilities expertly handle the fish, preparing them for canning or freezing before they make their way to dinner tables across the country. One of these processing plants has been in operation for over a century and remains the largest private employer in the town.

Few individuals understand the fishing business better than Glorianne Wollen, a lifelong resident of Petersburg and the daughter of a fisherman. She operates a large crab boat in partnership with others and also serves as the town’s harbor master. Glorianne works diligently from a small desk located within a bustling office, often accompanied by her loyal little dog at her feet. As a Petersburg native, she has witnessed significant changes over the years.

“In the good old days, the town was vibrant and alive with discussions. Everyone was involved, everyone had a stake in the community, and things happened in real time,” Glorianne reminisced. However, as boats have grown larger and more efficient, the dynamics have shifted. Fishermen now pursue a wider variety of species and spend more time at sea to maximize their investments.

• “It takes two guys to do what 20 used to,” she noted, reflecting on the reduced workforce in the industry.
• “There’s just fewer of us,” she added, highlighting the ongoing changes in the fishing community.

Petersburg may not host the large cruise ships that frequent other Alaskan ports, but its rich maritime heritage and thriving fishing industry make it a unique and integral part of Alaska’s coastal culture.