How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- training through a professional body
College
You may be able to do a course in maritime studies at a fishing industry training college. Once complete, you could apply for work as a trainee deckhand on a fishing vessel.
On a course, you'll learn:
- deck, ropes and fishing gear operation
- how to store a catch
- basic navigation skills
- vessel maintenance
You'll also get training in sea safety and first aid.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Fisher Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
This apprenticeship can take up to 2 years to complete.
It combines training at sea with onshore study at a college or learning provider.
You could also apply for a place on a Ship's Master Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, if you want to train to become a skipper. This apprenticeship takes around 4 years.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
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Direct Application
If you have experience of working or training on ships or boats, and the correct safety certificates, you may be able to find work. You could contact vessel skippers directly or fishing crew agencies, and train on the job.
Other Routes
You may be able to do the Introduction to Commercial Fishing course, which is backed by Seafish, who support the UK's fishing industry.
The course is for anyone looking to work on a commercial vessel. It covers basic industry skills and knowledge, along with 4 mandatory training units that you'll need to work onboard a boat:
- sea survival
- fire fighting
- health and safety
- first aid
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Career tips
You'll need to be willing to move if necessary, as approved training centres are located near to established fishing ports around the country.
Further information
You can find more information about careers in the fishing industry from Seafish.