Master Fisher

Salary: $90,000 + Super

Summary: The Master Fisher is responsible for planning, leading and executing the fishing operations of the vessel, while maintaining safe command and operation of the vessel. The role leads the vessel’s crew and fishing activities, applying knowledge of target species, fish behaviour, fishing grounds and environmental conditions to locate fish, direct trawling operations and maximise catch quality through safe, efficient and sustainable fishing practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and direct fishing operations, including fishing locations, timing, trawl deployment and retrieval.
• Use knowledge of target species, fish behaviour, fishing grounds, seasons and environmental conditions to guide fishing strategy.
• Interpret fish-finding equipment and catch information to locate target species and adjust fishing methods.
• Direct the operation of mid-water trawl gear and associated fishing equipment, adjusting trawl depth, towing speed and gear configuration to suit fishing conditions.
• Monitor catch composition and fishing performance and adjust operations to improve efficiency and minimise bycatch.
• Manage and direct the fishing crew, allocate duties and provide practical training and supervision.
• Oversee catch handling, species identification, product quality and storage to maximise the quality and value of the catch.
• Oversee inspection, maintenance and repair of fishing nets, gear and deck equipment.
• Ensure accurate catch, fishing and vessel records are maintained.
• Work closely with the Ship’s Engineer on vessel readiness, machinery performance and fishing requirements.
• Maintain overall responsibility for the safe command of the vessel and the safety of the crew.
• Monitor weather, sea conditions and vessel performance and adjust operations accordingly.
• Coordinate catch unloading, berthing, unberthing and other supporting vessel operations.
• Communicate with shore management, other vessels, ports and relevant authorities as required.

Safety, Sustainability & Compliance

• Ensure the vessel operates in accordance with its Safety Management System and applicable AMSA requirements.
• Maintain safe systems of work and ensure crew participate in required inductions, training and emergency drills.
• Ensure compliance with applicable AFMA and State fisheries requirements, fishing entitlements, quota, reporting and monitoring obligations.
• Ensure accurate recording and reporting of target, non-target and protected species interactions.
• Apply fishing practices designed to minimise bycatch, waste and environmental impact.
• Promote efficient catch handling and responsible utilisation of the harvested resource.
• Report safety incidents, environmental interactions and regulatory matters as required.
• Ensure compliance with the Company’s Drug & Alcohol Policy.

Experience & Competencies

• Minimum 3 years’ relevant experience in commercial fishing and vessel operations, with documented sea time.
• Strong practical knowledge of commercial fishing operations, fish behaviour, fishing grounds, target species and fishing methods.
• Demonstrated experience in trawl fishing, including deployment, operation and retrieval of trawl gear, highly regarded.
• Ability to interpret fish-finding equipment and catch information to guide fishing decisions.
• Practical knowledge of fishing gear performance, net maintenance and repair.
• Sound knowledge of applicable fisheries management and regulatory requirements.
• Strong leadership, decision-making and fishing crew management skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate vessel, fishing and compliance records.
• Hold required marine radio and other operational competencies applicable to the position.
• Complete required vessel safety training in accordance with the vessel’s Safety Management System and applicable AMSA requirements.

Physical & Operational Requirements

• Physically capable of performing the duties required of a commercial fishing vessel Master.
• Able to work extended and irregular hours, including nights, weekends and overtime according to fishing and operational requirements.
• Able to safely access all required areas of the vessel, including stairs, ladders and exposed decks.
• Able to operate safely in rough seas and variable weather conditions.