Fishing hands or fishermen on a commercial fishing vessel or trawler usually operate as part of a crew that catches fish with different types of nets and prepares and processes the fish for sale. Deep-sea fishermen need to provide for long stays at sea and be able to operate electronic equipment for communications and navigation. Individual fishermen usually work from small boats relatively close to land and return home in the evenings.
Big boat fishermen use heavy nets and need to anchor these securely. The nets are hauled in using mechanical winches and the catch is usually dumped on board, where it is sorted, cleaned and prepared for processing.
Other duties include repairing fishing nets and gear, observing instruments for sighting schools of fish, being on watch duty and cleaning the vessel.
Fishermen who work in the sport fishing industry specialize in line fishing. They work on vessels chartered by tourists and holidaymakers for fishing trips ranging from a few hours to a few days. These types of fishermen assist people who have chartered the vessel by locating game fish, baiting hooks, hauling and gaffing fish, cleaning, eviscerating and storing fish, navigating and cleaning the vessel.
One of the drawbacks of this industry is that the work is seasonal. Many fishermen take on other work in the low season, such as working in fish-processing plants or fishing-tackle retailers.
Satisfying Aspects
- working outdoors and in a relatively stress free and relaxed environment
- either working alone or with people
Demanding aspects
- working in all types of weather conditions
- seasonal work
- having to be away from home for periods of time
- not finding fish or only netting a small catch
- facing dangers at sea
Requirements
A fisherman should:
- be in good health;
- have physical strength;
- have coordination and mechanical aptitude for operating and repairing fishing equipment;
- have perseverance, working long hours at sea;
- tolerate being away from the family for long periods;
- be able to work as part of a crew;
- able to withstand cramped conditions for long periods;
- be flexible / versatile to be able to assume any other crew member's duties at a moment's notice.
School Subjects
No specific requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: None
Training
IN-SERVICE TRAINING:
The fisherman is trained on the job to effectively perform his duties.
Employer
- Commercial fishing companies
- Charter companies
- Self-employment - fishing offers good entrepreneurial possibilities. The fisherman with the necessary capital for a vessel and equipment, can open up his own commercial fishing company or charter company.