Take your first steps into commercial fishing with the comprehensive five-day Deckhand Preparation Course, designed for new entrants to the industry.

Course content

The course combines practical training and classroom learning covering:

Vessel and crew safety
Gear handling and maintenance
Catch management
Maritime regulations
Two mandatory qualifications: Sea Survival and Health & Safety (requirement for going to sea as a fisherman)

Industry Experience

Following the completion of the five-day Deckhand Preparation course, participants will undertake a minimum of one month's sea time on a UK commercial fishing vessel. The participants will gain hands-on experience and put their skills into practice while building confidence and experience.

Career progression

After completing the initial training and gaining experience at sea, participants can further advance their career with our five-day Deckhand Development course, where participants will:

Expand their skillset
Consolidate practical experience
Gain two additional mandatory qualifications: Firefighting and First Aid

Who can apply

This course is designed for new entrants to the commercial fishing industry. No previous maritime experience is required.

Pre-requisites for course:
Complete application form
Attend follow-up interview
Undertake ENG1 medical to meet funding requirements (medical fee will be reimbursed)

How to apply

The course is delivered by Seafish Approved Training Providers throughout the UK. Register your interest through the Microsoft Forms below or check out which approved Training Providers we are working with.