84121

Fishing vessel deckhands

TEER 4 — High-school diploma or several weeks of training

Express Entry skill level: No
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: No

Classification

Natural resources & agriculture

8 › 84 › 841 › 8412

Definition

Fishing vessel deckhands perform a variety of manual tasks on commercial fishing voyages, and maintain fishing vessels. They are employed by establishments that operate commercial fishing vessels and by self-employed fishermen/women.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Prepare nets, lines and other fishing tackle, and operate fishing gear to catch fish and other marine life
Sort, return protected species to the water, clean and pack fish in ice and stow catch in hold
Repair nets, splice ropes and maintain fishing gear and other deck equipment
Clean deck surfaces and fish hold
Handle anchors and mooring lines during docking and undocking procedures
May steer vessels to and from fishing areas
May prepare and cook meals for crew members.

Example job titles

•fishing vessel crewman/woman
•fishing vessel deckhand
•fishing vessel icer
•fishing vessel netmender
•seiner deckhand
•trawlerman/woman

Overview

Under Canada's NOC 2021 system, Fishing Vessel Deckhands are classified under NOC code 84121 as part of TEER 4. Individuals in this occupation perform a variety of manual tasks on board commercial fishing vessels to assist in harvesting fish, shellfish, and other marine life. Key duties include preparing nets, lines, and fishing gear, operating harvesting equipment, and cleaning, sorting, and packing the catch. They are also responsible for performing routine vessel maintenance and ensuring deck equipment is kept clean and safe under the supervision of the ship's skipper.

Employment requirements for NOC 84121 usually include some secondary school education, with practical on-the-job training typically provided. Depending on the region and vessel type, regulatory bodies may require Transport Canada certifications, such as Marine Emergency Duties (MED) or Marine First Aid. Because TEER 4 occupations are vital to regional industries, candidates may qualify for Canadian permanent residency through programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) or various Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams tailored to semi-skilled agricultural and natural resource sectors.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal immigration advice. Please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a regulated professional for official guidance.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.