Commercial fishing has always been risky business. Aside from being one of the most dangerous fields of work, the small, private nature of most employers brings its own challenges.
You don’t have to spend much time at the boat yard to hear stories of preseason deals gone awry after the nets have been put away. Some of those stories make their way to Nelson San Juan, too. He coordinates the seafood employment program for the state of Alaska.
“Sometimes they’re not able to make a lot of money because of the season. It’s Mother Nature’s call. Sometimes they’ll be surprised they were not paid money for food or gasoline and those are all included in the contract. And a lot of times they’ll say I didn’t make any money this year, some people working on the processing line made more money than I made. Those are the issues we get across every year.”
Having a signed contract and understanding exactly what it says are key in protecting yourself. But San Juan says simply asking around about potential employers is the best way to make sure you get a fair deal.
“In a small town like Dillingham or Naknek or King Salmon, they pretty much know each other in that area, so make sure they talk to other people and ask (about) the owner of the boat’s reputation.”
The state has plenty of resources online for vessel workers and processors here. Or San Juan’s office is available for assistance as well, at 907-269-4708.