Harvester: Danny Kent & a lifetime fishing Port Phillip Bay

Danny Kent's connection to the sea runs deep, tracing back through generations of fishers who passed down their knowledge and love for the ocean. Starting at just 14, Danny learned the ropes from his father and uncles, who taught him the intricacies of fishing and the importance of respecting the sea. He fondly recalls early mornings spent "putting the boat in and out of gear and lighting their smoke," moments that cemented his bond with the ocean.

Living in Portarlington his entire life, Danny is one of the few licensed long line fishers in Port Phillip Bay. His dedication to quality is unmatched, extending the Snapper season from mid-November to May to ensure that the freshest catches reach local chefs and consumers within 48 hours. This careful management not only preserves the pristine quality of Port Phillip Bay's seafood but also reflects Danny's deep commitment to his craft.

“His dedication to quality is unmatched, extending the Snapper season from mid-November to May to ensure that the freshest catches reach local chefs and consumers within 48 hours.”

With nearly 50 years of experience, Danny’s expertise is evident in every detail of his work. He uses minimal ice packing to maintain the fish's natural shape and quality, a technique perfected over decades. Today, Danny is passing on his legacy to his son, Heath Kent, who now fishes alongside him. Together, they ensure that the family business—and the traditions that come with it—continue to thrive.

Danny and Heath’s approach to fishing is highly sustainable. They use a targeted line catch method in the smallest commercial snapper fishery in Australia, with only around 10 commercial fishing licenses in Port Phillip Bay. This careful management leaves the bay as a refuge for snapper to thrive, ensuring a sustainable future for the species.

Danny’s impact extends beyond just the fish he catches. By passing down decades of knowledge to Heath, he’s ensuring that the local community continues to have access to incredibly high-quality seafood—a rarity in today’s market. For many in Melbourne, Danny and Heath are among the last sources of truly local fish, making their work all the more vital.

Supporting local, small-scale sustainable fishers like Danny and Heath Kent is essential to preserving both the quality of our seafood and the traditions that keep our communities connected to the ocean. Their story is a reminder of the importance of respecting the sea and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its bounty.

“For many in Melbourne, Danny and Heath are among the last sources of truly local fish, making their work all the more vital.”