“Working the Water” by Jay Fleming is a visual narrative of those individuals whose livelihood is directly dependent upon the Chesapeake Bay, America’s largest estuary. The book comprises photographs of seasoned watermen, scenic seascapes, weathered workboats and bay bounty, a true and complete depiction of Chesapeake Bay life. “Working the Water” is available for purchase in the Calvert Marine Museum Store for $50 per copy.
Fleming has spent the past three years actively documenting the fascinating and rapidly changing way of life of those who make their living off of the Bay’s resources. He has travelled thousands of miles around the Bay’s watershed and photographed hundreds of individuals and dozens of fisheries with the goal of documenting all aspects of the Bay-influenced industries.
Organized chronologically by season, “Working the Water” illustrates a behind-the-scenes view of commercial fisheries not visible to the average seafood consumer. From underwater shots of the fish in their natural habitat to images of them being harvested, and ultimately processed, Jay’s collection of photographs creates an all-encompassing vignette of the seafood industry that is sure to evoke a newfound appreciation for the seafood on our plates.
Jay’s flagship book is informative and aesthetically pleasing and is relevant to the seafood enthusiast, the history buff, the biologist, photography fan and Chesapeake Bay lover alike. For more detailed information about “Working the Water” or to purchase a copy, call the Museum Store at 410-326-2750 or email baughmmp@co.cal.md.us.