Each summer, as the fishing boats launch and the processing plants buzz to life, Bristol Bay transforms into one of the busiest and most hardworking places in Alaska. The long daylight hours and the rush of the salmon season bring a unique rhythm to life—intense, demanding, and deeply rewarding. The Bristol Bay region is home to thousands of people from diverse cultures who have lived and worked here for years. Whether you’re on the water, working in the processing plants, or supporting the fishing industry in another role, this season can take a toll on your physical and mental health.
At Cama’i Community Health Center, we understand how vital this season is for our community. The commitment and mission of local organizations, like Cama’i, play a crucial role in supporting the health of all communities in the region. We also know that staying safe and healthy during the fishing season doesn’t just protect you—it helps ensure you can keep doing the work you love and be there for the people who count on you.
This guide offers practical, compassionate tips to help you take care of your body and mind during the summer months in Bristol Bay, continuing a tradition of community health that endures today and builds on years of dedication.
Protect your health this fishing season—schedule a wellness check at Cama’i Community Health Center today.
Injury Prevention: Work Smart, Stay Strong
Fishing is hard physical work. Long hours, heavy equipment, slippery decks, and repetitive motions can lead to serious injuries, many of which are preventable with the right strategies.
Lift with Care
- Always bend your knees and use your legs, not your back, when lifting heavy objects.
- Avoid twisting while lifting—instead, pivot with your feet to change direction.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help or use gear like winches or dollies.
Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls
- Wear proper non-slip footwear designed for wet environments.
- Secure hooks and rods when transporting, maintaining at least a 10-metre distance between anglers, and always check behind you before casting, according to Better Health Victoria.
- Keep decks and work areas clear of gear and debris.
- Take time to secure equipment before and after use—even when you’re in a rush.
Protect Your Hands and Wrists
- Use gloves to reduce friction and prevent cuts and blisters.
- Take short breaks to stretch your hands and forearms during repetitive tasks like picking or sorting.
- Rotate tasks when possible to avoid overuse injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis.
Managing Fatigue: Sleep Isn’t Optional
When you’re working long shifts or pulling in nets at all hours, sleep can feel like a luxury. But sleep is essential—not just for recovery, but for safety. Fatigue is one of the top causes of workplace accidents during the fishing season.
Create a Sleep Routine Even During Peak Weeks
- If your work schedule limits sleep to a few hours at a time, try to sleep in the same blocks each day to keep your body in rhythm.
- Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to block out the midnight sun.
- Minimize caffeine intake late in your shift to improve sleep quality.
Watch for Warning Signs of Sleep Deprivation
- Difficulty concentrating, slow reaction times, and irritability are all signs you’re too tired.
- If you’re starting to feel “foggy,” take a short nap or rest, even if it’s just 15–30 minutes.
Buddy System
- If you’re out on the water, take turns resting and keep an eye on each other’s condition.
- Don’t hesitate to speak up if you or someone else seems too fatigued to work safely.
Stay Hydrated: Water Is Your Lifeline
Hydration is often overlooked during the fishing season, especially in cold weather where you might not feel thirsty. But dehydration affects everything—your strength, your focus, your mood, and your heart.
Signs of Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dark-colored urine
Hydration Tips
- Keep a water bottle within reach at all times and take frequent sips.
- Avoid relying on energy drinks or sugary sodas—they can dehydrate you.
- Add electrolytes to your water if you’re sweating heavily or working long shifts.
Protect Your Skin and Eyes
Even on overcast days, the sun’s rays can be intense, especially when reflecting off the water. Sunburn and eye strain are common in Bristol Bay’s fishing season, but are easy to prevent with a few small steps.
Sun Safety
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen regularly, especially on your face, ears, and neck.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat or a billed cap to protect your face.
- Choose clothing with built-in UV protection or wear lightweight long sleeves.
Eye Care
- Wear polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and protect your vision.
- Keep a backup pair on board in case your primary glasses break or fall overboard.
Nutrition on the Go
You might not have time for sit-down meals during fishing season, but fueling your body well is one of the best ways to maintain energy and avoid burnout.
Smart Snacking
- Pack high-protein, high-energy snacks like jerky, nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit.
- Choose complex carbs like whole grain crackers or oats to keep your energy steady.
Balanced Meals
- When you do have time for a hot meal, aim for balance: protein (fish, eggs, beans), healthy fats (avocado, nuts), and fresh vegetables when possible.
- Don’t skip meals—even if you’re not hungry. Your body needs fuel to keep up with the demands of the season.
Mental Health Matters Too
The intensity of the fishing season can leave you physically drained and emotionally strained. The ability to maintain your mental health is essential for everyone during this demanding time. It’s easy to feel isolated, overwhelmed, or even depressed—especially if you’re far from family and working long shifts.
Cama’i offers both quality health care and behavioral health services to support patients and community members. Patients can access these mental health programs by visiting the clinic or calling for more information about available services. There is a continuing collaboration between local organizations to ensure ongoing support for mental health in the community.
For more information or to access mental health support, contact Cama’i. These programs continue throughout the fishing season.
Check in With Yourself
- Take a few minutes each day to notice how you’re feeling—physically, emotionally, mentally.
- It’s okay to acknowledge stress, sadness, or frustration. These feelings are normal and valid.
Stay Connected
- Reach out to family or friends when you have service or time.
- If you’re part of a crew, make time for light-hearted conversations or shared meals. Even a few minutes of connection can make a big difference.
Know When to Ask for Help
- If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, or substance use, Cama’i is here for you.
- We offer behavioral health services including counseling, crisis support, and substance use treatment—confidential, compassionate, and judgment-free.
Substance Use and Safety
Alcohol and drug use can become a coping mechanism for some during high-stress times. But during fishing season, it’s also a major safety risk—not just to you, but to your crew and those around you.
Substance use prevention programs in the region support your ability to make safe choices and help ensure the well-being of everyone on the water.
Cama’i offers substance use counseling and support for patients seeking help. Patients can access these programs by visiting the clinic or calling for more information about available services and resources.
There is continuing collaboration between local organizations to strengthen substance use prevention efforts and provide ongoing support to the community.
For more information or to access substance use support, contact Cama’i. These programs continue throughout the season.
Practice Safe Choices
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs during the work season, especially if operating machinery or vessels.
- If you feel like you’re relying too much on substances to cope, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to manage it alone.
Cama’i offers substance use counseling and support for anyone who wants to explore healthier coping strategies. Our approach is non-judgmental and focused on your goals.
Know When to Get Medical Help
Sometimes, even with the best prevention, things happen. Cuts get infected, injuries worsen, or illness strikes. The sooner you get medical help, the faster and better you’ll recover. Your ability to recover quickly often depends on timely access to care.
Come See Us If You Experience:
- Persistent pain, swelling, or injury
- Signs of infection: redness, warmth, pus, or fever
- Mental health symptoms that interfere with work or daily life
- Dehydration or fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest
- Substance cravings or withdrawal symptoms
Cama’i Is Here for You in Bristol Bay All Season Long
We know the summer season is intense—and essential—for many families and workers in Bristol Bay. Whether you’re in Naknek, South Naknek, or out on the water, Cama’i Community Health Center is here to support your health and safety all season long. Patients have the ability to access a wide range of health programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of our community.
We offer:
- Same-day appointments when possible
- Behavioral health support
- Substance use counseling
- Telehealth options for remote workers
- Emergency care and walk-ins
For more information about our programs and services, or to contact Cama’i for support, please call our main line or visit our website for details.
Cama’i is committed to continuing collaboration with other local organizations to strengthen community health and ensure ongoing support for all residents.
These programs and services continue throughout the fishing season to help you stay healthy and safe.
Health Is Your Greatest Asset
Fishing season demands everything you’ve got—your strength, your focus, your endurance. To give your best, you have to take care of yourself first.
Stay safe. Stay hydrated. Get rest when you can. And remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
When it comes to summer health, Bristol Bay is supported by all of us at Cama’i Community Health Center. Stop in anytime and see us, and we wish you a safe, healthy, and prosperous fishing season.
Looking out for your crew starts with taking care of yourself—connect with Cama’i for local health resources.
