We met with Mr. Stephane PINTO, Vice President of the Hauts-de-France Regional Committee for Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture, who represents the gillnet fishermen.
We asked him a few questions to get to know him better, and he shared some anecdotes, memories, and commitments with us.
If you had to be a color?
“If I had to be a color, I would surely be green—the color of hope and my positive vision of the future. I would also be blue—a color that connects me historically and emotionally to the sea.”
If you had to be an animal?
“I wouldn’t necessarily be an aquatic animal, despite what one might think (with a little smile). I’ve always wanted to be a dove—a symbol of peace and freedom. Elements I’ve been able to experience as a fishing boat captain.”
If you had to be a dish?
“That question takes me back to my childhood memories, where I remember enjoying a hearty fish soup, so rich in flavor, and to which we were almost free to add any ingredients we wanted.”
Why and how did you start your career in the fishing industry?
“I entered the fishing world somewhat by chance. Even though I’ve always loved the sense of freedom the sea could give me, my dream was something else entirely. I wanted to become a chef on cruise ships. So, to pursue my dream, I first attended the ship’s boy school and then culinary school. By chance, I eventually became a fishing boat owner, taking over from my father as a net fisherman. Later, my passion and dedication to the sea led me to become the representative voice of the industry in Boulogne-sur-Mer.”
What does being Vice President and a representative of the fishermen entail?
“It has meant a great deal to me. Indeed, this opportunity allowed me to promote the craft of net fishing—a traditional trade—through the sustainable management of marine resources. My position at the time enabled me, among other things, to champion my values while effectively conveying the most important messages between small-scale fishermen and European policymakers.”
Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of fishing?
“To address the future of fishing, I reflect on the actions of the past. We’ve made mistakes, but for tomorrow I envision an even more sustainable fishing industry where humans will finally adapt to nature by respecting it. I also see unity—among all stakeholders in the sector—to preserve and promote fish species. I hope that one day all fishermen, regardless of the size of their boats, can work as a single, united body when it comes to decision-making.”
In our newsletter, flatfish are in the spotlight—please share a story or anecdote about them with our readers.
“I remember when flatfish were very abundant along the Channel coast. Back then, my team and I had to set our nets at the last minute to better target species like sole at the right size, so we wouldn’t catch other flatfish that hadn’t reached sexual maturity.”
Do you have a family recipe for plaice or another flatfish to share with us?
“I wouldn’t hesitate for a moment to tell you about a delicious baked flounder with tomatoes, white wine, and onions. It was the signature dish in my family when I was a child!”
