As a deckhand on a lobster fishing boat in Aldouane, N.B., Maisie McNaughton shares a thrilling experience at sea. Battling a strong sou’easter wind, the waves turned choppy and intense. Amidst the tumult, Maisie’s mother, with her trademark humor, advised, “Drive ‘er like you stole ‘er!”
Navigating the rough waters, they maintained a steady course, but a sudden turn led to a jolting encounter with the elements. As the boat pitched sideways, Maisie found herself clinging to a metal pole for dear life, witnessing her mother’s skilled maneuvers to keep them afloat.
Despite the harrowing ordeal, they managed to reach the calmer waters of the Richibucto River, relieved to have survived the ordeal. In their close-knit coastal community, news of a nearby boat sinking served as a stark reminder of the dangers at sea.
Raised in a family deeply rooted in the maritime industry, Maisie’s mother, Debbie Thompson, was a trailblazer as one of the first female lobster captains in New Brunswick. Over the years, she overcame stereotypes and superstitions to establish her presence in a male-dominated field.
Inspired by her mother’s tenacity, Maisie too found her calling at sea, finding solace and purpose in the unpredictable yet enchanting world of fishing. Despite the inherent risks, fishing resonates as a blend of danger and beauty, mirroring the complexities of life itself.
As the legacy of fearless women like her mother paves the way for a new generation, Maisie embraces the challenges and joys of her chosen path. With each voyage, she navigates through uncertainty, facing rough seas and quiet victories that shape her journey as a sailor, a fisherwoman, and perhaps one day, a captain.
