Gumboot Girls and Dancing in Gumboots chronicled the fascinating and inspiring stories of the 1970’s migration of women seeking a new way of life on BC’s West Coast, from Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. But what about the men who came in search of their own adventure, who became smitten with boats and the smell of salty air? Now, Gumboot Guys joins the two previous collections in chronicling this exciting decade, when all seemed possible.

Stories of buying, fixing, building and running boats; learning to navigate the ocean’s many moods; describing the abundance, and subsequent decline, of salmon stocks; and many, many tales of the unpredictable nature of life on the sea paint a vivid picture of the thrilling, adventurous and occasionally dangerous world awaiting these men. The constant current running through each of these stories is community—the guidance of experienced mentors, the encouragement from fellow adventure-seekers and the generous support of partners and families. These stories serve as a time capsule commemorating an era of hope, fortitude and freedom.

Lou Allison lives in Dodge Cove and commutes by boat to Prince Rupert, where she works in the Prince Rupert Public Library. She also co-owns a large vessel called the Far Reach and a small business called Tidal Enterprises with her spouse, Jeremiah. Lou and Jane have been friends for thirty-six years.

Lou Allison's profile page

Jane Wilde has worked in healthcare on the north coast of BC for over thirty years. She lives between Dodge Cove and Prince Rupert with her partner, Richard, down the path from Lou.

Jane Wilde's profile page