Overview
Fishing vessel deckhands perform a variety of manual tasks on commercial fishing voyages, and maintain fishing vessels. They are employed by establishments that operate commercial fishing vessels and by self-employed fishermen/women.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Prepare nets, lines and other fishing tackle, and operate fishing gear to catch fish and other marine life
Sort, return protected species to the water, clean and pack fish in ice and stow catch in hold
Repair nets, splice ropes and maintain fishing gear and other deck equipment
Clean deck surfaces and fish hold
Handle anchors and mooring lines during docking and undocking procedures
May steer vessels to and from fishing areas
May prepare and cook meals for crew members.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$41,712
$72,996
$104,280
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
97expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
There are no specific educational requirements.
On-the-job training is provided.
Marine Emergency Duties certificate is required by Transport Canada.
Additional information
Fishing vessel deckhands may become skippers upon acquiring an entry licence and a boat.
Fishing vessel deckhands may progress to watchkeeper or mate positions with additional training.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certifications to practice as Fishing vessel deckhands in B.C.
- Marine Emergency Duties Certificate - Fishing vessel deckhands
- Commercial fishing licences - Fishing vessel deckhands
Marine Emergency Duties Certificate - Fishing vessel deckhands
To work as Fishing vessel deckhands in B.C., you need a Marine Emergency Duties Certificate issued by Transport Canada. Click the link below for more information.
Commercial fishing licences - Fishing vessel deckhands
To work as Fishing vessel deckhands in B.C., you need the appropriate fishing licence(s). Click the link below for more information.
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.