Commercial Fishing Jobs in the USA

Recent economic events have inspired many people to look for a new career in the commercial fishing and seafood industries. While novels, movies and reality shows romanticize the lifestyle of fishermen, real life experiences can be quite different. Still the industry needs a new generation of workers and some people manage to enter commercial fishing with little or no experience.

Some people that try working in the fishing industry find the work too erratic, demanding and dangerous but many people that fish for a living become very passionate about the craft and endure incredible hardships in order to return to sea. A select few people in the industry go on to eventually obtain their captain's license and run a vessel either for a company or perhaps even one they purchase.

Most commercial boats are subject to a ever-increasing list of permits, regulations and requirements. The majority of American fisheries have limited entry requirements which make new vessels almost an impossibility. Some Federal and State permits are transferable from boat to boat but costs to buy or lease an existing permit can be a costly proposition.

When seeking a spot as a crew member on a commercial fishing boat, one should keep in mind that most available positions are in or near the top port cities. These include Dutch Harbor - Unalaska, Alaska, New Bedford, Boston and Gloucester Massachusetts, Hampton Roads Virginia and others. The U.S. Department of Commerce publishes an annual document entitled "Fisheries Economics of the United States" which lists major American fishing ports by state, with data for port landings in both value and poundage.

Skills in a related field may help a newcomer to the industry. Commercial fishermen need to know basic coastal navigation, boating safety, basic mechanical skills and seamanship. Experience in marine electronics, diesel engine service, hydraulics, electrical, refrigeration and seafood handling can be valuable assets for candidates.

Besides working as a fisherman, positions in the industry include the many services that support commercial fishing. These include professions such as seafood handling, marine electronics, welding, refrigeration, mechanical repair work, trucking and other trades.

Commercial fishing observer programs are another source of employment. Observers work on commercial fishing vessels, fish processing factories or dredging vessels to monitor effects of those activities on natural resources. For more information regarding fisheries observers in the United States, visit the National Observer Program website. In addition, fisheries observer programs occur internationally.

Education is important for some jobs that relate to commercial fishing. Local community colleges or colleges that serve fishing communities sometimes offer classes relevant to the industry. Credit and non-credit courses are also offered in several American and International colleges and universities.