Fishermen/women – NOC : 8262

Unit Group

8262 Fishermen/women

Fishermen/women operate fishing vessels to pursue and land fish and other marine life. They are usually self-employed owner-operators of fishing vessels.

Example Titles

fisherman/woman

fishing vessel skipper

inshore fisherman/woman

lobster fisherman/woman

longliner fisherman/woman

seiner fisherman/woman

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Main duties

Fishermen/women perform some or all of the following duties:

Operate fishing vessel to pursue and catch fish and other marine life
Select area for fishing, plot courses and compute navigational positions using compasses and charts or electronic fishing aids
Steer vessel and operate navigational instruments
Operate fishing gear, direct fishing operation and supervise fishing crew members
Maintain engine, fishing gear and other on-board equipment
Record fishing activities, weather and sea conditions
Estimate costs of operations and plan budget for each fishing season
Establish fish marketing plan and keep records of all financial transactions
May transport fish to processing plants or fish buyers.

Employment requirements

Several years of experience as fishing vessel crew member or helper are usually required.
A commercial fishing licence is required.
Licences are required for each species of fish pursued.
Trade certification for fish harvesters is available, but voluntary, in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Additional information

Progression to master or mate on fishing vessels over 100 gross tonnes is possible with additional training, licensing and experience.

Classified elsewhere

Fishing masters and officers (8261)
Fishing vessel deckhands (8441)