Do US Navy Ships Catch Fish to Feed the Crew?

The U.S. Navy's supply chain for its crew members ensures that they receive a steady and nutritious supply of food. While some historical accounts and certain situations may suggest that fishing could be a part of the process, the primary method of feeding the crew is through established food provisions. Let's explore why modern U.S. Navy ships don't typically catch fish for their crews and the comprehensive food management system in place.

Practicality and Efficiency

It is highly impractical and inefficient for U.S. Navy ships to catch fish as part of their food supply. The sheer size and number of crew members aboard these vessels make fish consumption impractical. A single U.S. Navy carrier, for example, typically has a crew of over 5,000, and it would require an immense amount of fish to meet their dietary needs. Additionally, fish have to be handled, stored, and processed promptly to maintain nutritional value and food safety. The logistics involved in ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, technically processed, and safe fish would be both cumbersome and impractical for a large ship.

Standard Food Management System

The U.S. Navy has highly organized and specialized food management systems in place on board ships. These systems provide a wide range of meals that are prepared and stored in dedicated freezers, refrigerators, and dry storage areas. The food is sourced from military supply systems, which ensures a consistent and diverse diet for all crew members. These systems are designed to maintain nutritional standards and provide balanced meals to keep the crew healthy and at peak performance during deployments.

Historical Perspectives and Recreational Fishing

Historically, there have been instances where fishing on board ships was a common practice, typically for recreational purposes rather than as part of the food supply. For example, during World War II, some sailors would bring fishing equipment and catch fish for variety in their meals. One such sailor was the narrator's grandfather, who was called 'Pop' and fished wherever the ship stopped. However, even in these instances, the fish caught were prepared and served by the ship's cooks, and often the captain enjoyed these meals as well. While these actions may have been against regulations, they were not uncommon in the past due to the different mindset and available resources of that era.

Anecdotal Evidence

A notable example from personal experience is provided by the narrator's time aboard the USS Los Angeles (ca-135), the flagship of the 7th Fleet. During a stop in the Pacific Ocean, a fleet admiral, known for his passion for fishing, decided to stop the entire fleet for fishing. The fish caught were processed and served for that night's meal. This anecdote highlights the recreational side of fishing but reinforces the fact that such activities do not form part of the routine food supply chain.

Modern Regulations and Guidelines

Today, the U.S. Navy strictly adheres to guidelines and regulations for food management. The aim is to maintain a consistent supply of high-quality, nutritious meals to ensure the well-being and performance of the crew. Fishing on board ships is not done as a regular practice due to the aforementioned practical and logistical drawbacks. Instead, the Navy relies on a robust supply chain that ensures all crew members receive the necessary sustenance.

In conclusion, while historical practices and personal anecdotes may suggest that fishing was a part of feeding the crew on U.S. Navy ships, the reality is that modern U.S. Navy ships do not typically catch fish to feed their crews. The focus is on maintaining a consistent and nutritious supply of food through established food management systems designed to sustain the health and morale of the crew during deployments.