Deckhand

Commercial Fisherman

Employment Period: September 2025 - December 2025

Work-Frequency: Seasonal

Fishery(s): California - Squid

Job Description

• Maintained deck cleanliness, corrosion prevention, and proper equipment storage between fishing trips.
• Complied with seasonal and regulatory closures (Friday noon to Sunday noon) to support spawning protection requirements.
• Spliced heavy-duty 3-, 8-, and 12-strand ropes used for mooring, net handling, and gear operations.
• Trained crew members in squid seining techniques, safety procedures, and efficient deck operations.
• Performed vessel maintenance and improvement projects to support operational efficiency and seaworthiness.
• Performed wheel watch duties, safely navigating vessel while crew rested en route to fishing grounds.
• Worked effectively in nocturnal shifts and adapted to extended overnight operations.
• Offloaded catch at dockside, coordinating with processing facilities and managing delays in pump lines.
• Built strong working relationships and crew cohesion through teamwork and communication.
• Maintained focus and performance in high-pressure and turbulent offshore conditions.
• Stacked cork lines and lead lines during net deployment and retrieval to prevent tangling and ensure efficiency.
• Operated hydraulic power blocks and winches to retrieve nets under heavy load and tension.
• Managed separator systems to remove excess water during squid pumping operations.
• Inspected purse seine nets for damage, particularly in the bunt section, and performed repairs using specialized tools.
• Assisted with skiff operations, including rope handling and net retrieval coordination.
• Prepared and cleaned deck areas between fishing operations to maintain safety and efficiency.
• Maintained understanding of refrigeration systems, including basic operation and maintenance procedures.
• Supported hydraulic system operations and performed routine maintenance checks.
• Assumed additional responsibilities as needed to support vessel operations and crew efficiency.
• Completed various vessel projects, including engine room work, painting, structural repairs, and inspection of onboard systems.
• Mended purse seine nets to ensure optimal catch efficiency and operational readiness.