Handliners

oil, 28" x 36"

$65,000

It was believed that fish caught handlining were usually larger and of better quality than those taken by trawling. Handlining remained popular as a method of fishing because fish caught in this manner brought better prices at the market. Schooners set out for the fishing grounds with salt, bait and provisions such as fresh water, salted meats and other non-perishables which they needed for the long 2-3 month trip. A 16-hour day’s work was not uncommon as the day’s catch had to be brought on board, dressed down and salted, placed in holds – followed by decks being cleaned and dories readied for the next day’s launch. The Schooner Susan R. Stone, shown here in the background, was built in 1888 and was one of the fastest sailors until she was lost with all hands in 1897. Designed by Dennison J. Lawlor and built as the A.D. Story yard in Essex, the Susan R. Stone was the inspiration for many other vessels built from her lines.