During my regular strolls along the boardwalk, I note that there are more working fishing boats docked here now than there were in the summer. One reason could be that the boats are out more in the summer. Another could be that the docking rates go up in the summer and a working boat owner can’t afford to pay as much as a millionaire with a mid-life crisis speedboat. I hope it’s not the latter.

I’d like to see the working use of our docks continue. I know the industry is in trouble and that each boat is limited to a small number of fishing days each year. If it’s a cost issue, we could have a 12-month fee that’s affordable for a working boat. I know some rich folks would probably pay it, even though they might only use it 3 months out of the year, but that’s ok, too.

For some reason, the appeal of the boat as a toy completely escapes me. If I made my living catching fish, I’d need one. If I lived on an island, I’d need one. Since I’m not going to do either of those things, I don’t plan to get on one any time soon. But, I know some people like them, and I’m glad for them.

But, I am very curious about all kinds of mechanical equipment and industrial processes. The recent open houses in the industrial park have been great. I think it would be a really good PR move for the local fisherfolk to have an “open boat” day some Spring Sunday afternoon. Give us landlubbers a chance to see what the inside of one looks like and how the equipment works. I’ll be there.

Dick Monahan, Newburyport