Alaska Commercial Fishing Industry - How to Get a Job

Would you like to get a job in the Alaska commercial fishing industry?

The industry employs over 65,000 people throughout the year. Many different types of jobs are available, with the main two being processing and fishing.

Fishermen work on fishing vessels or harvesting/processing vessels that catch the fish, while processors prepare the catch for sales distribution.

Which type of work is right for you in the Alaska Commercial Fishing Industry?

If you are seeking adventure, higher pay and risk, and if you have the physical and mental toughness to handle to work, a fishing job may be the best for you. However, if you would like calmer work conditions without the risk then you should seek employment as a processor.

There are basically two main seasons in the industry: winter season and summer season. Each season employs tens of thousands of people. Winter tends to pay better, but work conditions are much colder, while the summer season generally doesn't pay as much it does provide a more comfortable work environment.

One of the best ways to find employment is to get a list of hundreds of companies and fishing vessels. This way you will be able to apply to dozens of potential employers through the internet, by phone and via postal mail. You can start building a list by searching the internet for employment companies using keywords like "alaska fishing jobs," "alaska processing jobs," or "alaska fishing (or) processing employment."

It is best to apply early, at least two months before the fishing season starts to increase your chances of getting a job. Expect to sign a work contract that specifies how many weeks or months you will work. Work hours can be from 12 to 18 hours a day, with the average pay being around $3,000 to $10,000 a month with free room and board.

If you are looking for a quick way to save some cash, and to experience an adventure in the last frontier, an Alaska commercial fishing job could be just what you need.