The allure of working on the open sea, with its demanding work and sense of adventure, draws many to a career on a fishing boat. This path offers a unique lifestyle far removed from a typical office job. For those contemplating this trade, understanding the practical steps and realities of the industry is the first move. This guide provides a look at what it takes to get hired and what to expect.
Understanding the Types of Fishing Jobs
The term “fishing boat” covers many operations, and your job will depend on the vessel and its target species. Commercial fishing boats often involve long trips lasting weeks or even months. These vessels pursue species like salmon, crab, or pollock, and the work is intensely physical, involving deploying and retrieving heavy gear.
Charter or sport fishing boats offer a different experience. These are smaller operations that cater to tourists and fishing enthusiasts for day trips. While the core tasks involve fishing, the job has a large customer service component. Crew members are expected to be personable and assist clients, blending fishing knowledge with hospitality skills.
For individuals without direct fishing experience, processor ships are a common entry point. These are large, mobile factories that process and freeze the catch while at sea. The work is less about fishing and more focused on production line tasks like heading, gutting, and packaging fish. The structured environment and scale of the operation mean they are frequently hiring.
Essential Skills and Personal Qualities
Working on a fishing boat demands specific inherent traits beyond formal qualifications. A high level of physical fitness and stamina is required for long hours of manual labor, from hauling heavy nets to sorting catch with little rest. This grueling work makes endurance a non-negotiable attribute for any crew member.
Mental toughness is as important as physical strength. Life at sea involves facing harsh weather, isolation from family and friends, and repetitive tasks. The ability to remain resilient, focused, and level-headed under pressure is a defining characteristic of a successful fisherman. A positive attitude can impact the morale of the entire crew.
Living and working in confined spaces makes teamwork important. A fishing boat crew is a small, interdependent unit where every member must contribute and coexist peacefully. Captains value individuals who are easy to get along with, follow orders, and support their shipmates. A basic mechanical aptitude can make a candidate more appealing, and a resistance to seasickness is a prerequisite.
Necessary Licenses and Certifications
Securing a position on a fishing vessel requires more than just physical ability; several official documents and certifications are standard. The following are common requirements across the industry:
- A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is a security clearance issued by the TSA. It is required for anyone needing unescorted access to secure maritime facilities and vessels.
- A state-issued commercial fishing license is also required depending on the location and type of fishing. These regulations vary significantly, so it is important to research the specific requirements for your target port.
- A basic safety course certification, like the STCW, can substantially improve hiring prospects. It demonstrates a foundational knowledge of emergency procedures, survival techniques, and first aid.
- Applicants must be prepared to pass a pre-employment drug screening. This is a standard practice to ensure safety and compliance on board.
Finding and Applying for a Position
The most common method for finding a job, especially for someone new to the industry, is to “walk the docks.” This approach involves traveling to a major fishing port—like Seattle, Dutch Harbor, or Gloucester—and speaking directly with people on the boats. Dressing for the weather and presenting a serious, hard-working attitude while inquiring about openings can lead to a job offer.
Building a network within the port town is another strategy. Opportunities are often discovered through word-of-mouth in places frequented by fishermen. Spending time in local supply stores, cafes, and bars can lead to conversations and tips about which boats are crewing up. This informal networking can provide valuable leads.
While a physical presence is preferred, some positions are posted on online job boards and forums for the maritime industry. These websites are a resource for finding openings, particularly on larger processor ships or for roles requiring specific skills. While you can apply from a distance, many captains prefer to meet potential hires in person.
Timing your job search is also a factor. The fishing industry is highly seasonal, with hiring peaking just before the start of a fishing season. Researching the primary fisheries for your target region and arriving a few weeks before the season begins will maximize your chances. This places you in the right location when demand for new crew is highest.
What to Expect from the Work and Pay
The reality of working on a fishing boat is one of intense labor and long hours. A common workday lasts between 16 and 20 hours, filled with physically demanding and repetitive tasks. This work is performed in all weather, from calm days to freezing storms where the deck is constantly pitching. The environment is dangerous, and maintaining focus is necessary to prevent injury.
A unique aspect of commercial fishing is its pay structure, which is not a fixed salary. Most crews work on a “crew share” system, where each member earns a percentage of the catch’s value after expenses like fuel, food, and gear are deducted. A newcomer, or “greenhorn,” receives the smallest share, which increases with experience. This model means there is potential for high earnings on a successful trip, but also a risk of making little money if the catch is poor.
Life at sea is stripped down to the basics. Living quarters are tight, with crew members sharing small bunk rooms where personal space is limited and privacy is almost non-existent. Meals are provided, but the food is simple and functional, designed to fuel the crew for the demanding work.