Will AI Replace Commercial Fishers?
No. Sonar and GPS help find fish, but the sea still needs skilled crews. Commercial fisher is rated Low AI impact, with an AI Resilience Score of 80/100. (See how we rate AI risk.)
What AI Can Already Do
- Locate fish with sonar and satellite data.
- Plan routes and track catches.
- Monitor fishing quotas.
What Still Needs a Person
- Handling nets, lines and pots.
- Working in rough seas.
- Maintaining the vessel.
- Processing the catch on board.
Why Commercial Fishers Are Hard to Replace
The ocean is unpredictable. Weather and sea conditions change constantly.
The work is physical. Hauling gear on a moving deck needs skilled people.
Vessels need crews. Safety rules require trained people on board.
Experience finds fish. Knowledge of grounds and seasons takes years to build.
What the Next 10 Years Look Like
US projections show a decline, mainly due to quotas and consolidation rather than AI. Skilled skippers and crews remain needed. Compare other ratings in our full list of careers AI can't replace.
What Do Commercial Fishers Do?
- Setting and hauling gear.
- Sorting and storing catch.
- Navigating and operating vessels.
- Maintaining equipment.
How Much Do Commercial Fishers Earn?
Commercial fishers typically earn $30,000–$70,000 a year in the US. Pay often depends on catch share.
The usual path is Deckhand → Skipper → Vessel Owner.
Job Outlook for Commercial Fishers
US employment is projected to change by -4.2% by 2035. (See where our data comes from.) New Zealand, Australia and Canada have major fishing industries.
Can You Switch Into This Career?
Yes. Many deckhands start without experience. Related careers include Marine Mechanic. Not sure if this is the right fit? Pivot to an AI-resistant career that matches your skills and goals, with a step-by-step plan for making the switch.
How to Become a Commercial Fisher
- Complete sea safety training.
- Start as a deckhand.
- Gain sea time.
- Get skipper or master certificates to advance.
Requirements
Fishing crews need maritime safety training, and skippers need certificates of competency from national maritime authorities, such as AMSA in Australia, Maritime New Zealand and Transport Canada. Commercial fishing also requires licences and quota rights.
Is It a Good Career?
Pros:
- Outdoor, adventurous work
- Good earnings in strong seasons
- Secure from AI
Cons:
- Dangerous conditions
- Long trips away
- Income varies with catch
It suits tough, practical people who love the sea.
Still deciding? Ask yourself: what if you took a different path for 5 years? Pick a career and play through 5 years month by month, making a key decision every six months, with family, competition, health and economic surprises along the way.
FAQs
Will AI replace commercial fishers in the next 10 years?
No. Technology helps, but crews still do the work.
How much do commercial fishers earn?
Typically $30,000–$70,000 a year in the US.
Do I need experience to become a deckhand?
No. Many start with safety training only.
Is commercial fishing dangerous?
Yes. It's one of the more dangerous occupations, so safety training is essential.
Not sure if your current job is at risk? Check your AI risk score for free and see which careers match your skills. brigenai helps you find a career that lasts, with AI tools and real people to guide your switch.
