About Fisherman Creations
During much of the year, Harvey and Sons in Davis, NC, looked like a typical supplier to the commercial fishing industry, with stacks of brightly colored crab traps (locally called "crab pots") as a major product. The unpredictable nature of fisheries and a desire to grow the family business as a legacy for his sons prompted Nicky Harvey to seek other products.
Mr. Harvey's roots are deeply connected to the Down East culture, where traditions of "making do" and using available materials run strong. His inventive mind led him to experiment with leftover materials, first making miniature crab traps for coastal decor. Later, he experimented with triangles of coated wire mesh, and the Core Sound Christmas tree was born.
This unique artificial tree was an instant hit with friends and neighbors who appreciated the creative use of traditional materials. Nicky didn't stop there. He developed a method to string lights on the tree so it could be folded flat to 5% of its open size, yet remain fully decorated when opened. In 2004, U.S. Patent #6773134 was granted for this innovation.
Holidays and Beyond
- Happy New Year!
- Breast Cancer Awareness
- Valentine's Day
During the Christmas season, these trees appear in coastal garden shops, gift stores, and Christmas shops. If you're not planning a trip to coastal North Carolina, they are available for purchase online. However, the trees have grown beyond just Christmas.
In the aftermath of 9/11, Harvey and Sons expressed their patriotism with the Freedom Tree. Since then, people everywhere have discovered creative ways to use Crab Pot Trees for all seasons, becoming an essential part of their decorating ideas.
Partnership with Fisherman Creations
In 2009, Nicky Harvey signed a national manufacturing and distribution agreement with Fisherman Creations, Inc., located a few miles away in Smyrna, NC. Since the patent was issued, over 100,000 trees have been sold across the U.S. and overseas, with more orders coming in almost every day.
Share Your Story
Tell us about your Crab Pot Christmas Tree and send your pictures [here]. Don't have one? [Shop here now!]
THANK YOU to everyone who helped us grow!
Where is Smyrna, NC? Where is the Core Sound?
Smyrna, NC is in coastal Carteret County, part of the Down East region. The Core Sound lies to the east—think "Outer Banks" and then go south.
This area is rich in history, with a strong heritage tied to the water. Fishing, crabbing, shrimping, oystering, hunting waterfowl, and carving decoys are key parts of local life. Nets drying on lawns and boats—work boats, commercial boats, shallow skimmers—are common sights.
Like many rural areas, making a living here can be challenging. Some seasons bring good crabbing, some don't, but there's always hope for a better season.
Patent number: US 6773134
