John Fuss was born in Manila, Philippines, and moved to the U.S. with his family in the wake of the 1980s political unrest. With roots that stretch from the Gulf Coast of Texas to the islands of the Pacific, John was raised with a deep appreciation for culture, nature, and resilience. After settling in South Carolina in 1989, he found his way to Charleston in 2002—and to the waters that would shape his life.
Though his connection to the natural world has always been strong, it’s the ocean that calls to him most. The fish, the unseen rhythms of the underwater world, and the quiet power of life beneath the surface have held his attention since childhood. Today, John works as a small-scale commercial fisherman, running a highly selective, hook-and-line operation with minimal bycatch and a focus on sustainability. Every fish is caught with intention—one bait, one hook, one fish at a time.
John legally harvests and sells a handful of local species directly to chefs and markets in the Lowcountry, helping to build a more transparent and ecologically sound seafood system. For him, these waters are more than a workplace—they are a source of nourishment, healing, and meaning. They feed his family, steady his spirit, and connect him to something greater. In return, John feels a deep responsibility to care for them, protect them, and share his experiences with others.
