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Fisherman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Athletes Global Corporation

Fishing Instructor

Visalia, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Pay: $24.00 - $28.00 per hour Do you enjoy fishing and sharing your knowledge of the outdoors with young people? We are seeking an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and dependable Fishing Instructor to ...

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Athletes Global Corporation

Fishing Instructor

Visalia, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Pay: $24.00 - $28.00 per hour Do you enjoy fishing and sharing your knowledge of the outdoors with young people? We are seeking an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and dependable Fishing Instructor to ...

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Yurok Tribe

Fisheries Biologist II

Klamath, CA · On-site

$34.04 - $56.24/hr

Fisheries Opening Date: 07/06/2026 Closing Date: 7/27/2026 5:00 PM Pacific POSITION SUMMARY Fisheries Biologist II is under the general supervision of the Senior Fisheries Biologist. Fisheries ...

Lynker Corporation

Fisheries Science Analyst

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$58K - $99K/yr

Responsibilities Duties of the Fisheries Science Analyst will include the following: * Conduct ESA effects analyses for harvest and hatchery management frameworks * Perform trend analysis, risk ...

Lynker Corporation

Fisheries Science Analyst

Seattle, WA · On-site

$58K - $99K/yr

Duties of the Fisheries Science Analyst will include the following: * Conduct ESA effects analyses for harvest and hatchery management frameworks * Perform trend analysis, risk assessment, and ...

Discovery Land Company

Fishing Guide

Hobe Sound, FL · On-site

Atlantic Fields, set outside of Hobe Sound, FL Atlantic Fields is seeking a Fishing Guide to join the Outdoor Pursuits Department. The Outdoor Pursuits Guide will ensure that the highest level of ...

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Fisherman information

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$6

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How much do fisherman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for fisherman in the United States is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Fishermen in the US typically do not earn $300,000 annually; high earnings are usually associated with specialized roles such as commercial fishing captains or those working in lucrative fisheries, where earnings depend on catch volume, experience, and market prices. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, and long hours at sea.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fisherman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fisherman, you need practical knowledge of fishing techniques, navigational skills, and a good understanding of fisheries regulations, often gained through hands-on experience or vocational training. Familiarity with marine electronics like GPS, sonar systems, and fishing gear maintenance is typically required. Physical stamina, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for success in this demanding environment. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safety, maximizing catch efficiency, and complying with environmental and legal standards.

What jobs are related to fishing?

Jobs related to fishing include aquaculture workers, fishery scientists, marine biologists, seafood processing workers, and boat captains. These roles often require knowledge of aquatic environments, safety protocols, and sometimes specialized certifications or licenses. Skills in navigation, equipment maintenance, and environmental conservation are also relevant in these fields.

What Does a Fisherman Do?

A fisherman uses various types of fishing equipment and techniques to catch fish and marine life to be sold for food or used as bait. In this role, you use nets of all sizes, traps, and fishing lines to catch the fish, and then use complex machinery to hoist fish loads onto a boat. Some fishermen may dive into the water to fish with spears or rake through kelp or other vegetation. However, the commercial fishing industry primarily takes place on boats. You must also handle fish and know how to look for illness. Depending on the area and your employer, you may work on a large, deep sea boat with a big crew or with a smaller team working close to shore.

What is the highest paying fishing job?

The highest paying fishing jobs are often found in commercial fishing, such as deep-sea or offshore fishing for species like tuna or swordfish, which can offer high earnings due to the demanding environment and valuable catches. These roles typically require specialized skills, certifications, and long hours at sea, with earnings varying based on catch value and experience.

What is the difference between Fisherman vs Marine Biologist?

AspectFishermanMarine Biologist
CredentialsNone required, some may have fishing licensesDegree in Marine Biology or related field
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on boats, in fishing communitiesLaboratories, research vessels, fieldwork in marine settings
Industry UsageCommercial fishing, recreational fishingResearch, conservation, academia

While both roles involve working with marine environments, fishermen focus on catching fish for commercial or recreational purposes, often with minimal formal education. Marine biologists study marine life scientifically, requiring specialized degrees, and work in research or conservation settings. The two careers differ in credentials, work environment, and industry focus, but both contribute to understanding and utilizing marine resources.

What are some common challenges fishermen face while working at sea, and how can they be managed?

Fishermen often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, long and physically demanding hours, and the need to navigate changing regulations regarding catch limits and protected species. Safety is a top priority, so it's important to be well-trained in emergency procedures and to use proper safety equipment. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as fishermen typically work closely with a small crew. Staying informed about the latest industry regulations and investing in reliable gear can help manage these challenges and contribute to a successful fishing trip.

Are fishermen paid well?

Fishermen's pay varies based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of fishing industry. On average, commercial fishermen earn around $30,000 to $50,000 annually, but earnings can be higher with specialized skills or in high-demand regions. Many fishermen also face seasonal work and physically demanding conditions.

What does a fisherman do?

A fisherman is responsible for catching fish and other aquatic animals from oceans, rivers, or lakes, often for commercial, recreational, or subsistence purposes. Their duties include operating boats, using fishing gear such as nets or rods, and following safety and environmental regulations. Fishermen also sort, clean, and sometimes process their catch before selling or distributing it. The work can be physically demanding and often involves early mornings, long hours, and exposure to various weather conditions.
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Fisherman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fisherman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $33,828 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Open-Hole Fisherman/Whipstock Operator

Wild Cat Oil Tools

The Woodlands, TX • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

This job is for rotational. Jobs will be across Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma, with an emphasis on the Haynesville, Permian and Delaware Basins. The Open-Hole Fisherman / Whipstock Operator is responsible for safely planning, preparing, and executing open-hole fishing, whipstock, and sidetracking operations at customer wellsites. This position works closely with drilling contractors, operators, directional drillers, and customer representatives to deliver safe, efficient, and technically sound downhole solutions while maintaining the highest standards of customer service and operational excellence.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Prepare, inspect, assemble, and maintain open-hole fishing and whipstock equipment for field operations.
  • Execute open-hole fishing jobs, including retrieval of stuck drill pipe, bottom hole assemblies (BHAs), tubulars, and other downhole equipment.
  • Perform whipstock and casing exit operations, including whipstock installation, anchor setting, milling, and sidetrack support.
  • Interpret well programs, directional plans, and customer procedures to ensure successful execution of field operations.
  • Verify all tools are properly assembled, tested, and documented prior to mobilization.
  • Troubleshoot downhole conditions and recommend appropriate fishing or sidetracking solutions based on well conditions and customer objectives.
  • Monitor job performance and make sound operational decisions while maintaining constant communication with customer representatives.
  • Prepare detailed field tickets, job reports, equipment inventories, and post-job documentation.
  • Ensure all equipment is cleaned, inspected, repaired, and ready for subsequent operations upon return from the field.
  • Maintain company vehicles, trailers, and assigned equipment in safe operating condition.
  • Assist with inventory control, equipment maintenance, and shop activities when not assigned to field operations.
  • Maintain compliance with all company, customer, and regulatory safety requirements.
  • Participate in safety meetings, pre-job planning, hazard assessments, and post-job reviews.
  • Represent the company professionally while developing and maintaining strong customer relationships.
  • Be available for travel and rotational on-call assignments as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Minimum 3 years of oilfield field operations experience.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to assemble and troubleshoot downhole tools.
  • Ability to read and interpret well programs, engineering drawings, and technical procedures.
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to work extended hours, weekends, holidays, and on-call schedules.
  • Willingness to travel extensively to customer locations.
  • Experience performing open-hole fishing operations.
  • Experience running whipstocks, anchor systems, and casing exit tools.
  • Knowledge of fishing tools including overshots, spears, junk baskets, mills, magnets, taper taps, die collars, and washover systems.
  • Familiarity with drilling assemblies, directional drilling practices, and bottom hole assemblies.
  • Experience with torque and drag considerations, hydraulics, and downhole mechanics.
  • Hâ‚‚S certification, Well Control, PEC/Safeland, First Aid/CPR, and forklift certification.

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