King Fur 55, Malcolm Shane Skipper, was raised in Cameron Parish and represents the true spirit of a coastal son. Growing up along the Gulf, his life was shaped by the tides, the salty air, and the hardworking people who make their living on these waters. For him, the commercial fishing industry was more than a career—it was a way of life and the foundation of who he is today.

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At just 12 years old, Malcolm made his first offshore trip with his father—skipping the last week of school because the Gulf’s call was too strong to ignore. That trip marked the beginning of a lifelong journey, and from that moment on, he knew his future belonged on the water.

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Over the past 30 years, Malcolm has worked every major fishery in Cameron Parish. He has experienced the industry’s evolution firsthand—from the early derby days, when fishermen risked everything with each trip, to today’s federally regulated quota system. Through it all, he has remained steady, resilient, and deeply committed to his craft.

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One of his proudest accomplishments is the Carey B, a boat built in Cameron in 1997 and originally owned by his father’s best friend, Mr. Snag. Malcolm later purchased the vessel from the Bailey family and kept its name, honoring its history. Years later, he passed the wheel on to Brandon Debarge, Mr. Snag’s grandson—a full-circle moment that reflects the deep connections within the coastal community.

Malcolm’s journey on the water has never been a solitary one. For over 30 years, his childhood friend Steven Berkey has stood alongside him through calm seas and storms alike, sharing in both the challenges and rewards of life offshore.

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Like many in Cameron Parish, Malcolm has faced the devastation of hurricanes. Hurricane Rita was especially impactful, destroying nearly everything his family owned. Yet through loss came resilience. As Malcolm often says, “Storms take away, but they also restore.” His family rebuilt, remained rooted in their community, and continued the work they love.

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Today, one of Malcolm’s greatest joys is watching his children and grandchildren grow up in the same close-knit, coastal culture that shaped him. Being able to live, work, and raise a family in Cameron Parish is his proudest achievement.

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Malcolm lost his father in November of last year, and the Gulf has not felt the same since. Still, his father’s influence remains ever-present in his journey. Reflecting on a lifetime on the water, Malcolm shares, “The Gulf teaches you that everything can change—over time or in the blink of an eye.”

Beyond fishing, Malcolm has always invested in the future of Cameron Parish. He coached youth softball, pee-wee football, and helped reestablish the South Cameron Jr. Tarpons football program after Hurricane Rita. His commitment to supporting local youth reflects his dedication to keeping the community strong.

Born on July 25, 1975, in Franklin, Louisiana, Malcolm is the son of Diane and the late Malcolm Skipper of Cameron. He grew up alongside his three sisters—Tammy, Telica, and Tanya—in a home filled with love, hard work, and strong family values.

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For 32 years, his wife, Jessica Navarre Skipper, has been his greatest supporter, standing by him through early mornings, long days offshore, and the rebuilding that followed life’s storms. Together, they have raised three children—Jada Cole, Trevor Broussard, and Ariana LaSalle—and are proud grandparents to Ezra, Emric, Everett, and Jaxson.

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As he is crowned to reign over the 67th Annual Louisiana Fur & Wildlife Festival, King Fur 55 stands as a proud representative of the fishermen who rise before dawn, endure the uncertainties of the Gulf, and preserve the heritage that defines Cameron Parish.