Washington Fishermen’s Convention
December 4 - December 8
Westport — The Washington Fishermen’s Convention aims to unify and celebrate our state’s fishing industry, with something to offer everyone in the community. The Convention will be an up-to five-day learning and networking opportunity for both new and experienced fishermen.
It starts with a two-day, hands-on, U.S. Coast Guard-approved Drill Instructor and Fishermen’s First Aid at Sea training (participants will earn a certificate). Then, a two-day conference filled with networking opportunities and educational sessions as well as community meals. The Convention will be rounded out by a one-day, on-water sea trial for new fishermen to practice their skills and test their seaworthiness (e.g., sea sickness!) on the back deck of a commercial fishing vessel.
Participants will be able to register for individual components of the Convention. Stay tuned for registration.
Working agenda:
Training: Thursday, December 4 – Friday, December 5
Drill Instructor and Fishermen’s First Aid at Sea training.
Fee: $75 for commercial fishermen. Non-commercial fishermen can attend for $150.
Space is limited to 24 participants.
Conference: Saturday, December 6 – Sunday, December 7
Multi-track educational and networking conference and community meals for both new and experienced fishermen.
Sessions will include topics such as:
- Intro to Washington fisheries
- How to safely find a job
- Day in the life of a commercial fisherman
- Hands-on knot tying and basic fishing gear repair
- Mitigating conflict
- Crew contracts
- Finance and insurance technical assistance
- Making your voice heard with decision-makers
- Regulations and licensing
- Participant networking and crew/captain matchmaking
Fee: $125
Registration will also include options to add on an extra meal ticket for a friend or family member ($30) and to sponsor a young fisherman to attend the conference ($125).
Sea Trail: Monday, December 8
Test your seaworthiness on a commercial fishing vessel!
Fee: $50
Space is limited.
Location:
Westport, WA (exact details to come)
Contact:
For questions or scholarship requests, contact Bridget Trosin, WSG fisheries and boating program lead, bemmett@uw.edu
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Washington Sea Grant, based at the University of Washington, helps people and marine life thrive through research, technical expertise and education supporting the responsible use and conservation of coastal ecosystems. Washington Sea Grant is one of 34 Sea Grant programs supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in coastal and Great Lakes states that encourage the wise stewardship of our marine resources through research, education, outreach and technology transfer.
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