A fishing vessel operator is a fisherman who specializes in working from a boat, typically as part of a crew. The job isn’t very different from that of a regular fisherman in many aspects, while on the other hand it requires some specific knowledge related to catching fish from a vessel. Fishing vessel operators will most often catch their fish by using nets, and the traditional method of using rods isn’t very commonly used. A fishing vessel operator will sometimes be required to operate specific machinery on board of the vessel, without being involved in the actual fishing process.
Becoming a fishing vessel operator requires mainly two things: experience with fishing, and knowledge of sea vessels. The first can be attained by working as a fisherman for long enough, and most companies look for candidates with at least a few years of experience. The second requirement is secured in a similar fashion though sometimes fishermen with plenty of experience but no knowledge of boating may be hired, being taught the specific details of the job over the first few months (which also serve as a probation period).
A fishing vessel operator isn’t paid very highly, even compared to other fishers – their annual pay goes between $21,000 – $34,000, and the job may offer some small bonuses in some cases. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for fishing vessel operators to work on commission, though this makes their salary dependent on the yield of the vessel.