As a child, Tom Capen always loved watching the Newport Beach Dory Fleet, and often wished that he could make a living in that manner. Before becoming a commercial fisherman, however, he took time to get a degree in Marine Biology (1977) from California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo.
Today, Captain Capen fishes the F/V Eleanor Marie out of Port San Luis for black cod (sablefish), rock crab and Dungeness crab. Over the years, he has also fished for salmon, albacore and white sea bass.
A past president and director of the Port San Luis Commercial Fishermen’s Association, Captain Capen is frequently called upon to represent his port before the Fish and Game Commission and other regulatory bodies. In addition, he serves as port representative on the local Marine Interest Group, and is regularly involved in collaborative research efforts.
Captain Capen has two sons and is married to realtor Renee Capen. When not on the ocean or on the road trucking his fresh local seafood, he can often be found hitting a handball around at the local YMCA.
Look for the Eleanor Marie on its mooring in Port San Luis at Avila Beach. Look for Captain Capen’s fresh-caught seafood at:
Many thanks to Lori French, the original founder of Faces, for her previous work and continued efforts.
Funds for The Faces of California Fishing were provided by a grant from
Central California Joint Cable/Fisheries Liaison Committee.
Content copyright 2012. Alliance of Communities for Sustainable Fisheries. All rights reserved.
