Non-tribal commercial fishermen in Jefferson and Clallam counties say they are a dying breed.
Figures released last week by the state Department of Revenue bear that out — there were 68 commercial vessels registered to non-tribal owners in Clallam County and 41 in Jefferson County in 2001.
Tribal commercial fleets owned by Makah, Quileute, Jamestown S’Klallam, Lower Elwha Klallam, Hoh and Quinault fishermen totaled about 58, fisheries officials say.
Commercial boats include crab, skein, gillnet, troll, trawl, long-line, charter and other fishing vessels, according to the state.
Looking around Port Angeles Boat Haven, veteran commercial fisherman Tom Amos says its hard to believe that many non-tribal commercial boats are still in business in Clallam County.
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