How to Apply for a Crabbing Job

Crab fishing is drawing attention because of the popularity of reality television programs that focus on the industry. Even though the pay can be excellent, crabbing is a difficult and extremely dangerous profession that involves arduous work, long hours and several weeks at sea. Contrary to popular belief, the reality is that there are only a small number of available crabbing jobs, and competition can be stiff. If you still want to pursue work in this field, there are steps you can take to apply for a job.

Instructions

1. Consider moving to areas where crabbing jobs are, if you are really serious about this line of work. Some jobs are only for a few months, while others are year-round jobs. Alaska is where most people find crabbing jobs, but other areas--such as Maryland, Washington, Louisiana and Texas--also have jobs available.

2. Get experience on a boat. Captains of fishing vessels usually don't hire people who have not spent a lot of time on the water.

3. Get a personal recommendation from a family member or a friend who knows someone in the crabbing business. If you know someone in the business, it can help you find out about available jobs and even perhaps land one.

4. Look for industry-specific job websites for crabbing jobs. Sites like Alaskafishingjobs.com and Alaskafishingjobs.net can tell you about crabbing industry work and provide helpful resources to aid you in your search for employment.

5. Find out if you need a commercial fishing license. This is a requirement if you plan to apply to work as a crew member on a fishing vessel in the state of Alaska. Check with the Fish and Game Division of the state in which you plan to work.

6. Be prepared to spend money on equipment and some essentials. The likelihood is that you will have to buy your own work-related clothes and gear, as well as pay for food and other expenses on the fishing vessel.

7. Give an impressive interview. If you are one of the few fortunate people to snag an interview with a fishing vessel captain, be sure that you can assure him that you know something about the job, its expectations and the risks involved.

8. Consider applying for a shore-based job in a crab meat processing plant, if you don't want to work on a boat. Although you don't get to go out on a fishing vessel, you do have the advantage of working all year with a steady salary. Duties include preparing and inspecting crab meat for shipping or canning. Look online for these jobs, at sites such as www.careersinfood.com.

Tips & Warnings

• Make certain that you have realistic expectations.

• Make sure that you are in good shape to handle all the physical labor the job involves.

• Be able to follow instructions and take tough criticism.

References

• AlaskafishingsJobs
• AlaskafishingsJobs
• Crab Fishing 101

Resources

• Career Description- Fisheries
• Careers in Food