Minimum wage laws do not apply to crew member jobs in the industry. However, certain federal and state laws concerning hiring of persons under the age of 18 do apply. Wages are often based on a share or percentage of harvest earnings. Recent market conditions have caused some share rates to decline. Make sure the vessel has a good safety reputation.
Crew members supply their own commercial fishing licenses.
In addition to fishing, crew members are expected to perform work on their vessel and its associated gear without additional pay for these activities. The daily rate or a share or percentage of the catch is considered pay for all work performed. On board smaller vessels, the crew will eat, relax, and sleep with very little privacy. Toilet facilities on some vessels can be either non-existent or somewhat exposed to other crew members, while on others there is a shower and toilet for individual use. If privacy is important, a would-be crewmember should ask about these facilities.