Women Embrace Fishing as a Way of Life
A recent report from the Department of Fisheries, Catching, Agriculture, and Self-Sufficiency reveals a noteworthy trend: more women are turning to fishing as a way of life.
Two women leading this charge are Kimmernaq Mathæussen from Nuuk and Rita Inûsugtok from Ikerasaarsuk. Both have nurtured a passion for fishing since their childhoods.
“I’ve always been in my father’s dinghy. Every summer, we’d venture out to different fishing spots. When the seal hunt begins in April, that’s when my excitement peaks. April is the month I await the most,” Mathæussen reflects.
Inûsugtok shares a similar enthusiasm for the craft. “Perhaps it’s because I’ve developed a genuine love for fishing that I find it far more fulfilling than being stuck in an office,” she explains.
A Life by the Water
In 2022, Inûsugtok obtained her cod fishing license, marking a significant pivot in her career. Previously, she worked on land during the winter and autumn, but now, fishing has become her year-round vocation.
“I can’t pinpoint exactly why, but I find fishing thrilling. I think I’ve just become better at it. It’s become my way of life,” she says.
Over the last decade, the number of female fishermen has seen a remarkable increase from 0.3 percent to 1.4 percent. Today, 28 women are earning their livelihoods through fishing.
“Although still a minority, women in fishing have increased significantly since 2016. The proportion of female fishermen has surged fivefold since ten years ago,” states the department’s report.
Mathæussen also recently earned her commercial fishing license after transitioning from employment to independence. She emphasizes the freedom and excitement that come with this line of work.
“The thrill lies in the unpredictable experiences nature offers every day. I absolutely love the challenge,” she affirms.
Encouragement for Aspiring Fisherwomen
For women along the coast dreaming of a life as commercial fishermen, Mathæussen and Inûsugtok offer empowering advice.
“Listen to your intuition and trust in yourself. Tap into your skills. To my fellow sisters: pursue your strengths rather than settling for an office job,” Inûsugtok encourages with a smile.
Mathæussen echoes these sentiments, urging women to persevere in their aspirations. “If you want to turn your passion into a profession, don’t hold back—believe in yourself. You will achieve your goals. I waited four years to obtain my business license,” she reveals, continuing, “But I never gave up; I kept learning. I practiced alongside my father. With hard work, you can reach your goals, and the satisfaction of being self-reliant is absolutely fantastic.”
As these women forge new paths in the fishing industry, their stories serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring fishermen everywhere.