Fishing In Alaska

Alaska commercial fishing has been somewhat glamorized in the television and movie industries and through legend. The lure of living an adventurous life at sea appeals to the pirate in many of us, but the reality of commercial fishing may not be what one has in mind when deciding to put one’s things in storage and hop a plane to look for fishing jobs in Alaska.

Commercial fishing is a big industry in Alaska, but this doesn’t mean a job is guaranteed. In fact, crew members tend to hold on to jobs they’ve found to be reliable, so it can be hard to find fishing jobs in Alaska, especially since job openings are spread largely through word of mouth. Be prepared–mentally and physically–to do a lot of waiting.

Landing one of the few fishing jobs in Alaska, necessitates several things, such as $250-300 worth of equipment, from a sleeping bag to wet weather gear and obtaining a fishing license. One should also expect to be charged a share of the operating expenses, and once on board, to forgo any expectation for privacy, whether using the toilet or trying to relax.

Fishing jobs in Alaska can pay well if there is a good harvest. Of course, there is no guarantee, and a poor harvest means the crew member’s share or percentage of the harvest can be meager. There is no minimum wage for crew members, so be sure to sign a reasonable payment agreement before signing on to a vessel.

Aside from the monetary risk, be aware of the physical dangers of the industry. Commercial fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations in America, and since accidents, if they occur, will take place far from medical facilities and assistance, the risk to one’s health and safety is even greater.

Thus, to survive in commercial fishing in Alaska, one must be physically strong, willing to work hard, able to tolerate constant companionship for extended periods of time, and willing to take and follow directions.