83121

Fishermen/women

TEER 3 — College diploma, shorter apprenticeship or 6+ months training

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

Classification

Natural resources & agriculture

8 › 83 › 831 › 8312

Definition

Fishermen/women operate fishing vessels less than 100 gross tonnes to pursue and land fish and other marine life. They are usually self-employed owner-operators of fishing vessels.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Operate fishing vessel to pursue and catch fish and other marine life
Select area for fishing, plot courses and compute navigational positions using compasses and charts or electronic fishing aids
Steer vessel and operate navigational instruments
Operate fishing gear, direct fishing operation and supervise fishing crew members
Maintain engine, fishing gear and other on-board equipment
Record fishing activities, weather and sea conditions
Estimate costs of operations and plan budget for each fishing season
Establish fish marketing plan and keep records of all financial transactions
May transport fish to processing plants or fish buyers.

Example job titles

•fisherman/woman
•fishing vessel skipper
•inshore fisherman/woman
•lobster fisherman/woman
•longliner fisherman/woman
•seiner fisherman/woman

Overview

Under Canada's NOC 2021 classification system, Fishermen/women are categorized under code 83121, which falls within TEER Category 3. These professionals operate fishing vessels to harvest fish and other marine life, often working as self-employed owner-operators or hired captains. Their primary responsibilities include navigating vessels, operating and maintaining fishing gear such as nets, lines, and traps, directing crew members, and ensuring compliance with maritime safety and fishery regulations.

To meet the ESDC employment requirements for NOC 83121, candidates typically need several years of experience as a fishing vessel deckhand or crew member. Depending on the size of the vessel operated, individuals must possess specific Transport Canada certifications, such as a Fishing Master certificate, Marine Emergency Duties (MED) training, and valid commercial fishing licenses. Familiarity with electronic navigation aids and radio operation is also standard for this occupation.

As a TEER 3 occupation, skilled fishermen and women may qualify for key Canadian immigration pathways. This includes potential eligibility under the Express Entry system (specifically the Federal Skilled Trades Program), various regional Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for official regulatory updates.

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

Verify this NOC with DUTYPROOF →Check program eligibility →

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