Shrimping and fishing along the Gulf Coast have been a way of life for centuries, one way to earn an honest living while enjoying days on the water. Testing the mettle and determination of this hardworking group of fishermen, the start of the 21st century dealt a one-two punch. Those surviving Hurricane Katrina, where again tested by The Spill.
     Although the shrimping seasons have their ups and downs, many had no idea how the British Petroleum oil spill would affect life in the waters of the Gulf. Here, enjoying the calm waters of Jefferson Parish Canal, the Warrior waits on better days. Here, Louisiana’s pumping stations, 340 miles of drainage canals, and a massive levee system are the safety nets against flooding, no one was well prepared to take on a runaway underwater oil well.
     Today, the shrimp boats are back at work again as the first days of September mark the start of the season and the blessing of the fleet. Working under a dark, oily cloud, first shrimping reports don't appear to be very optimistic. Having no other means of support, shrimpers continue to search for better hauls. Perhaps this season the Warrior will have a chance to live up to its name.