AFTCO Bluewater

The passing of our Chairman Milt Shedd was widely reported on CNN, Fox News Network, National Public Radio and in newspapers throughout the country, where he was often referred to as the “Walt Disney of the Sea.” While there were hundreds of stories published, the exerpt that follows was especially meaningful. Please join us in paying tribute to the wonderful life of Milt Shedd. “It all began with a walk on the Santa Monica Pier and a gaze into the water below. Milt Shedd looked down and saw a school of smelt. He was instantly mesmerized. The four-year-old longed to learn everything he could about smelt. What did they eat? What ate them? Where do they go? From that day forth, Milt spent a lifetime examining the underwater world so full of life and mysteries, sating an irresistible curiosity. A simple walk on the pier as a child drove Milt Shedd into becoming one of the most
revered pioneers in marine conservation of our time. He will be remembered for co-founding Sea World, founding Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute, and helping to create the UCLA Marine Science Center. He will be remembered as a war hero, one who received the Silver and Bronze stars and the Purple Heart. He will be remembered as a devoted husband and father. He will be remembered for his giving, and his preference of keeping it anonymous. Mostly, Milt will be remembered for his unparalleled passion for the ocean. He will be missed.” — Dave Strege, The Orange County Register
		Milt’s boat the Sea World is where he spent much of his over 3.500 glorious days at sea.


One of Milt’s most admirable qualities was the fact that he was the same man whether he was with a famous person, or the man next door.	Milt was instrumental in developing some of the earliest scientifically controlled billfish tagging programs on the West Coast.	Milt with grandson Casey and son Bill — President of AFTCO Bluewater — proudly displaying Casey’s first bluefin tuna.

Three months after hatching, this 2-1/2” long white seabass is ready to leave the hatchery for a grow-out pen.

In 1952, Milt (far right) and his fishing friends were the first anglers in California to use live bait to catch striped marlin.

White Seabass Hatchery
At right, Milt and wife Peggie, the love of his life for over 58 years, with a nice catch of big white seabass. Known as the “father of the white seabass hatchery program,” it was Milt’s vision and early funding that started the program in the early 70’s.
At left, Milt observes young seabass with son Bill (left) and Hatchery Program Director/HSWRI President Don Kent (center).