Job Description for a Professional Fisherman
Fishermen catch and trap a variety of fish and other marine life for food for humans and animals as well as bait. Some fish are bred and raised in confined bodies of water on fish farms. These professionals are not considered fishermen, but instead fish farmers. A professional fisherman travels rivers, lakes and oceans seeking and catching wild fish.
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Types
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Professional fishermen typically specialize in catching a type of fish. The region the fishermen lives in determines the type of fish or sea-faring creature he catches. Fishermen in Maine, for example, might catch swordfish and lobsters while a professional fisherman in Maryland or Virginia might look for blue crabs, oysters, scallops or clams.
Primary Duties
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The primary duty of a professional fisherman is to navigate waters, possibly through treacherous conditions, and catch fish, store them and bring them back to shore to sell. Fishermen must understand how to pilot and navigate their vessels, avoid or go through bad weather and follow the rules and regulations of their particular fishing industry. Fishermen are often out on the water for weeks at a time doing very strenuous work outside in all types of weather. On large boats, a crew of five or more may have to share confined living quarters for days at a time.
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Education and Training
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Professional fishermen generally learn their trade by apprenticing and moving up through the ranks from deckhand to eventual captain. Large fishing vessel operators must complete Coast Guard training and it is recommended for all fishermen regardless of position. Some community and technical colleges offer certificate and degree programs in fishing technology and other marine-related coursework. Workshops are frequently available through a state's department of natural resources or fish and game department and the Coast Guard for skill advancement.
Qualifications
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A professional fisherman must be in good health and be mentally and physically strong. Mechanical ability is also recommended. Stamina is needed to work long hours on the ocean and patience is helpful to overcome slow periods.
Salary
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual salary for a fisherman in 2008 was $27,950. The top ten percent earned more than $45,930.
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References
- Photo Credit fishing net image by Olga Dovydenkova from Fotolia.com
