Skippers and deckhands travel out to sea on fishing vessels in order to catch fish. Deckhands are members of the fishing crew, whilst skippers are in command of the vessel and responsible for its safe and efficient operation.
Vessels range from small single-handed boats to large factory boats manned by crews of over 30. A typical 20-metre vessel will have a crew of five or six.
Large modern vessels use advanced electronic systems to navigate, locate fish and monitor the storage conditions of the catch. Modern deck machinery and fish handling systems reduce the need to lift and shovel the fish.
Deckhands may:
- prepare the deck and equipment for the catch
- operate deck machinery and fishing gear
- handle and stow the catch
- repair fishing gear
- wash down decks and keep the vessel safe, clean and tidy
- unload the fish when the vessel returns to the harbour.
Depending on the size of the vessel, tasks may also include:
- cooking for the crew (Larger boats may employ a dedicated cook.)
- helping with the bridge watch – steering the vessel, looking out for other vessels and for changes in the weather
- helping with the maintenance of the vessel’s engine.
Deckhands may also be expected to develop skills such as net making and splicing rope. On some vessels they may assist with the routine maintenance of engineering equipment.
Larger vessels also have a qualified mate as a crewmember. A mate has additional responsibilities, such as reading charts and navigating, radio communications, using more advanced equipment, and deputising for the skipper.
Skippers are responsible for all aspects of health and safety, and crew and vessel management. This may include:
- supervising the operation of fishing gear
- navigating the vessel
- deciding on the method of fishing and the area of operation
- managing business arrangements with merchants, vessel owners and agents
- accurately maintaining all ship records and catch logs.
Hours and environment
The amount of time spent at sea depends on the type of vessel. Inshore fishing involves small boats fishing close to the shore, so they usually make daily trips out to sea. Large freezer ships can go to distant fishing grounds and may be away for as long as two months at a time. For all vessels, time is also spent ashore maintaining the fishing gear and repairing the vessel.
The standard of accommodation and amenities on board depends on the boat’s age and size. Many new large boats are built to a good standard of comfort below deck. However it is more normal for facilities to be basic and conditions cramped.
The crew work out in the open for much of the time and have to work in all types of weather. The work is very physically demanding and includes lifting and carrying, especially on smaller vessels that use more manual systems.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
Instead of a basic wage, crewmembers are paid a share of the total profit from each trip. The greater the catch, the more they get paid, although an individual’s share also depends on experience and seniority.
- On entry, a deckhand may earn around €10,000 to €20,000 a year.
- Experienced deckhands may earn around €20,000 to €30,000 a year.
- Skippers may earn between €30,000 and €50,000 a year, or more if they own their own vessel.
Skills and personal qualities
Deckhands and skippers should:
- be able to cope with being away from home, sometimes for long periods
- be physically fit, with plenty of energy and stamina
- be able to swim
- be able to work in difficult and cramped conditions
- work well as part of a team
- work safely at all times
- be able to follow instructions and explain things clearly to others.
In addition to these, a skipper should:
- have a good knowledge of the sea and seamanship
- have a good knowledge of the mechanics and engineering of the vessel and equipment
- have leadership skills and be able to deal calmly with emergency situations.
Interests
It is important to:
- enjoy being at sea in all kinds of weather
- be interested in boats and fishing.
Entry routes
No set qualifications are needed to start as a trainee deckhand, but entrants need to be physically fit, have good eyesight, and be able to work well in a team. All new entrants to the fishing industry are legally required to hold basic safety certificates, so must attend training in sea survival, firefighting, first aid, and health and safety.
The most common entry method is to secure a trainee position on a boat and learn on the job. Jobs are usually obtained by word of mouth (simply asking about), or on harbourside noticeboards. Vacancies may be advertised in fishing journals and online at www.findafishingboat.com.
Useful Links:
Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine