74. From a life at sea - The campfire sessions with Charlie Sheldon

Charlie pursued American Studies at Yale University and earned a Master's Degree in Wildlife Biology and Resource Management from the University of Massachusetts. He embarked on a career as a commercial fisherman in New England, harvesting cod, haddock, lobster, red crab, squid, and swordfish. Committed to the establishment of the 200-mile Fisheries Conservation Zone, he subsequently served as a consultant for Fishery Management Councils, formulating management plans and spearheading gear development for more selective fishing practices. Over 28 years, he contributed to seaports in New York, Seattle, and Bellingham as a project and construction manager, eventually advancing to executive roles, which included habitat restoration and collaboration with Puget Sound Tribes to alleviate tribal fishing disputes. Approaching his later years, Charlie rejoined maritime life with the Sailor’s Union of the Pacific, working as an Ordinary Seaman, Able Bodied Seaman, and Bosun. His maritime journey led him from commercial container ships on the New York to Singapore route to Military Sealift Command naval vessels. In 2016, at the age of 70, he served as bosun on the USNS Shughart from New Orleans to New York. A lifelong writer, he released 'Fat Chance' through Felony and Mayhem Press in 2005. He initiated the concept for 'Strong Heart' many years prior and delved into intensive research in 2010. Currently, he enjoys hiking in the Olympic Mountains, cooking for his spouse, and crafting stories in Ballard, Washington.

 

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