"Generations of independent fishermen have found a home on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Called watermen regionally, they share a love of the estuary and of making a living by harvesting blue crabs, finfish, and oysters.

Watermen toil alone or in small groups. Their commitment to one of America’s most treasured natural resources earns them a measure of respect throughout the Chesapeake region."

http://www.mdsg.umd.edu/topics/watermen/watermen