About the Event:
The First Annual Downeast Fishing Family Forum, will take place Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Woodlawn Event Center in Ellsworth. This inaugural gathering is designed specifically for fishing families along Maine’s Downeast coast to connect, share experiences, and address the most pressing challenges facing their communities.The Forum is organized by Sunrise County Economic Council, Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association, Green and White Hope, Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries and Island Institute.
Organizers realized that, over the last decade, Maine’s fishing families have faced hard times, and they’ve had to lean on the incredible strength of their communities. Whether it is facing the grief of coming together to search for loved ones lost at sea, or acknowledging the fear of losing an industry that communities have depended on for generations, Downeast fishing families have demonstrated incredible resilience and strength.
The Fishing Family Forum will be a gathering for fishing families along Maine’s Downeast coast to connect, share, and talk about what matters most, including: Safety on the water, harvester health & well-being, mental health supports, community response in emergencies, financial literacy & family stability.
Coffee, lunch, and complimentary childcare will be provided to ensure all family members can participate. A reception with seafood and snacks from local businesses will follow the forum. Admission is available for a suggested donation of $10, with free admission available using the code “FREE” during online registration. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and can be accessed through registration.
For more information about the forum, registration details, and sponsorship opportunities, visit sunrisecounty.org/fishing-family-forum/ or contact Amanda Smith at asmith@sunrisecounty.org or (207) 259-0755.
Event Information:
Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Woodlawn Event Center in Ellsworth.
