ADVISORY: Some of the reasons crew members leave should carry a warning
to job seekers to proceed with caution. Commercial fishing is rated as one of the most hazardous occupations in America.
Reputable boat operators rarely have serious mishaps, nor do they lose good crew members through misunderstandings. It is
a good idea to find out why the departed crew member left. A vessel with numerous crew vacancies during the harvest season
warrants investigation before new crew accept a job on it.
Minimum wage laws do not apply to crew member jobs in the industry. However, certain federal and state laws
concerning hiring of persons under the age of 18 do apply.
Wages are often based on a share or percentage of harvest earnings. Newcomer deckhand earnings range from
1.5% to 10% of the adjusted gross catch, depending on location and type of fishery and the skills the worker possesses. Some
vessels offer a daily rate from $50 to $100 instead of a percentage of the catch. Recent market conditions have caused some
share rates to decline.
CREW COSTS
A crew member can be expected to purchase
specialized apparel such as:
wet weather gear $100 per set
rubber boots $40 to $70 per pair
gloves $2 to $12 per pair
wrist covers or sleeves $5 per set
sleeping bag $70 to $200
The fishing vessel owner/operator should provide other specialized gear required by the Coast Guard, such
as a survival suit. Make sure the vessel has a good safety reputation.
Crew members supply their own commercial fishing licenses. In 2000, commercial fishing license fees are
$60 for a resident and $125 for a non-resident. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has a web site offering
crew license
information and purchase:
