For Alaska-born artist and commercial fisherman Melia Harding, AK Dirtbag began long before it became a business. She grew up in Sterling on the Kenai Peninsula, subsistence fishing with her family. "Both my parents were deckhands when they were in their early 20s."
When she stepped onto a commercial fishing boat for the first time, everything aligned. Even in an industry where women can have a difficult time finding their place, she felt immediately at home.
“When I went out commercial fishing for the first time, I realized I'm never giving this up. This is awesome, and it's my job now."
That same season sparked her brand. During closures between long stretches of fishing, Melia sketched what would become her first design. Her crewmates loved it. Within months, she launched AK Dirtbag, selling merchandise the most Bristol Bay way possible: out of the back of her truck in the rain!
Capturing the real Alaska
AK Dirtbag’s style is unmistakable, gritty, and rooted in real fishing life.
“I like capturing the really grungy side of Alaska.” Many fishing‑related designs miss the mark or feel disconnected, which is why she focuses on creating artwork that reflects real moments from the industry.
“It is made for them to represent them.”
With much of the fishing apparel world trending toward generic graphics and away from human-created art, Melia focuses on real fisheries, real moments, and real people. “There is so much pride in commercial fishing,” she explained. “If you have somebody who is in the space and knows the language and the energy, it makes a difference.”
Navigating a male-dominated industry
Commercial fishing remains a challenging space for women. “It is interesting to be in a space that was not built to include you,” Melia said. The industry is still largely male‑dominated, and that dynamic does not always create the most welcoming environment. Rather than focusing on the noise around her, Melia stays grounded in her work and the growing community of women who support one another in the industry.
Still, there is strength in numbers. “It really is like an unspoken language out there,” she said about the women she fishes alongside. “Every woman I know understands what each other is facing.” They share resources, boat contacts, supply lists, and everything a newcomer needs to safely find their footing.
What keeps her going
Fishing challenges her physically and mentally in ways she finds deeply rewarding. “I love testing the boundaries of physical capability,” she said. “Every time I come out of a season, the level of confidence and competence you gain is deeply rewarding.”
Her artwork serves the community that fuels her. The best moments are when fishermen recognize themselves in her designs.
"People are so excited to just see themselves in the art."
Her message to future fisherwomen
Melia encourages any woman interested in commercial fishing to reach out to the women already there. The support system is strong and generous. “I think one of the best communities in the world is commercial fisherwomen,” she said. “If you are not out there yet, message commercial fisherwomen, go up and talk to them.” She emphasized how far that network can take someone. Melia firmly believes women strengthen the fleet.
“It's an amazing career, and every woman that comes out is a total bonus to the industry.”
To see more of Melia’s perspective and the artwork inspired by her time on the water, you can explore her work through at akdirtbag.com or check our her merch in select LFS stores! Follow along to find out which LFS locations you can find her apparel in.
