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Deckhand Fishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barge Deckhand

Fort Smith, AR ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Barge Deckhand McMillen, Inc. is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Barge Deckhan d to join our ... We are focused in the dams, energy, fisheries, natural resources, and infrastructure markets. Our ...

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Deckhand Fishing information

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$12

$21

$30

How much do deckhand fishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for deckhand fishing in the United States is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deckhand fishing?

A Deckhand Fishing job involves assisting in the operation and maintenance of a fishing vessel. Duties include handling fishing gear, sorting and cleaning the catch, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the deck remains clean and safe. Deckhands often work long hours in challenging weather conditions and must follow safety regulations. This role requires physical endurance, teamwork, and knowledge of basic seamanship. Experience is not always required, as on-the-job training is common.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a deckhand fishing?

To thrive as a Deckhand Fishing, you need physical stamina, basic seamanship, knowledge of fishing gear operations, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with navigation systems, hydraulic equipment, and safety certifications like STCW or first aid are often required. Teamwork, adaptability, and a strong work ethic are key soft skills for excelling in varied and challenging conditions. These competencies ensure safe and efficient vessel operations, successful catches, and positive crew dynamics, all crucial for the demanding nature of fishing at sea.

What does a deckhand fishing do?

A typical day for a Deckhand Fishing involves preparing and maintaining fishing gear, assisting with the operation of nets or traps, sorting and storing catches, and cleaning the vessel. Deckhands often work as part of a close-knit team, handling physically demanding tasks in all weather conditions, sometimes on extended trips at sea. The schedule can be long and irregular, with shifts determined by fishing seasons and catch quotas. Teamwork and clear communication are vital, as crew members rely on each other to ensure safety and efficiency during challenging situations.

How much does a deckhand fishing make?

A deckhand fishing typically earns between $20,000 and $40,000 annually, with wages often increasing with experience, certifications, and the type of fishing vessel. Many deckhands also receive tips and may work long hours, especially during peak fishing seasons.

Where do deckhands get paid the most?

Deckhands working on commercial fishing vessels in regions with high fish populations or lucrative fisheries tend to earn higher wages, especially in areas with strong demand for skilled labor. Pay can also be higher for deckhands with specialized skills, certifications, or experience working on larger or more complex vessels.

Is it hard to get a job as a deckhand fishing?

Getting a job as a deckhand in fishing can be competitive, especially for entry-level positions, but experience with boating, safety certifications, and physical fitness can improve chances. Many employers value practical skills and willingness to work long hours in outdoor conditions. Starting as a deckhand often involves gaining experience on smaller boats before advancing to larger vessels.
More about Deckhand Fishing jobs
What cities are hiring for Deckhand Fishing jobs? Cities with the most Deckhand Fishing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Deckhand Fishing jobs? The most popular types of Deckhand Fishing jobs are:
What states have the most Deckhand Fishing jobs? States with the most job openings for Deckhand Fishing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Deckhand Fishing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Deckhand Fishing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Deckhand Fishing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Experienced Deckhand - Factory Trawler

United States Seafoods LLC

Dutch Harbor, AK โ€ข On-site

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description:

United States Seafoods is a Commercial Fishing Company with factory trawlers out of Alaska. We are looking for experienced deck crew members to work on board our vessels. We are looking for full-time, long-term employees who are willing to work a rotating schedule throughout the year.


United States Seafoods is currently recruiting for a qualified & experienced deckhand to work on one of our factory trawlers. A qualified & experienced deckhand should have previous experience working on deck of a commercial fishing vessel and be skilled in working with and repairing bottom trawl nets.


United States Seafoods fishes from January to November. Crew size varies from 4-5 on our Catchers Vessels and 50 -70 on our Factory Trawlers.


A Deckhand will -

  • Set and haul back fishing nets and transfer bags to/from catcher vessels
  • Maintain and repair fishing gear and nets
  • Operate cranes and other deck machinery
  • Maintain all fishing gear and deck equipment
  • Operate skiff
  • Load equipment and supplies aboard vessel
  • Keep deck gear and storage areas clean and organized
  • Maintain all work areas in a safe and seaworthy condition
  • Assist in factory as needed (if on Factory Trawler)
  • Assist in Engine help or Wheel Watch as needed (if on Catcher Vessel)
  • Compensation is a Crewshare (which is a percentage of the value of the catch)
Requirements:
  • Experience as a deckhand on a trawl vessel
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen
  • Must be available for the full contract period (Approx. up to 90 days)


EEO Policy: The Company's equal employment opportunity policy prohibits unlawful discrimination with respect to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, veteran or other status protected by applicable law.


EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability