Fishing Operations (Wild Catch) Traineeship
The wild catch sector involves the catching of fish by a variety of methods on vessels that vary from small one-person boats to larger ocean-going fishing vessels with large crews. The work often takes place under difficult conditions and fishing voyages can last from one day to several weeks or longer.
As a crewmember you are expected to perform a variety of tasks, which may include assisting with general vessel and fishing operations, rope work, net mending, maintenance, watch keeping and sea-farm work.
What sort of jobs are there?
The starting point for a career in commercial fishing will be as a general deckhand and the work may involve setting and hauling lines, nets or pots, assisting in the operation of winches, sorting and packing the catch, maintaining fishing gear and general deck duties. Most deckhand work requires a good level of physical fitness.
A senior deckhand may operate a small fishing vessel, provide support to the skipper of a large vessel or be involved in specialist activities such as occupational diving. In addition to performing all the duties of a deckhand, this person will generally have added responsibilities for watch keeping and navigation. Future prospects for people in fishing operations can include positions as a Skipper, Marine Engine Driver, Occupational Diver or Fishing Operations Manager.
The training and assessment to gain the regulatory maritime tickets required for these positions is available at the Australian Fisheries Academy.
Qualifications
Vocational qualifications for trainees in fishing operations are available from Certificate I to III and can be customised to meet the needs and interests of both employer and trainee. The qualification may focus on fishing only, a combination of fishing and sea-farm operations or specialist areas such as engineering and diving.
The two-year Certificate III traineeship can lead to a coxswain certificate if required and marine regulatory requirements are met. Further information on these requirements can be obtained from Transport SA on 08 8347 5028.
Contact either the Australian Fisheries Academy on (08) 83032780, the Career Employment Group on (08) 8645 3033 or your local New Apprenticeship Centre for further details.
