Working as a crew member (ABK) on an international fishing vessel offers opportunities to gain experience in the maritime industry. However, before applying for a position, prospective crew members need to understand that each type of vessel has different fishing methods, equipment, and job responsibilities.
Two common types of vessels in the fishing industry are net fishing vessels and squid fishing vessels. Both operate to catch marine resources, but their daily activities can differ depending on the fishing method, equipment used, and operational requirements.
Understanding the differences between net fishing vessels and squid fishing vessels can help prospective crew members identify the type of work they want to learn and prepare themselves for the working environment at sea. PT RNT Utama Indonesia encourages prospective crew members to understand their responsibilities before entering the recruitment and placement process.
1. Understanding Net Fishing Vessels and Squid Fishing Vessels
A net fishing vessel is a fishing vessel that uses nets as its primary fishing gear. The type of fishing gear may vary, including purse seines and other net-based fishing methods, depending on the vessel’s characteristics and target catch.
During fishing operations, crew members help prepare the nets, operate fishing equipment according to instructions, haul or retrieve the nets, and handle the catch after the fish have been caught.
Meanwhile, a squid fishing vessel specializes in catching squid. Depending on the fishing system used, its methods may involve specialized fishing lines, jigs, squid-attracting lights, and other supporting equipment.
On certain squid fishing vessels, lights are used to attract squid and gather them around the fishing area. Crew members then assist with the fishing process according to established procedures and their assigned duties on board.
It is important to understand that equipment configurations and working methods are not necessarily the same on every vessel. Therefore, prospective crew members should learn about the vessel type and operational system used by their prospective employer.
2. Differences Between the Duties of Net Fishing Crew and Squid Fishing Crew
The main difference between these two types of vessels lies in their fishing activities and equipment. These differences influence the daily responsibilities of the crew.
Duties of Net Fishing Vessel Crew
On net fishing vessels, crew members are primarily involved in preparing, operating, and handling fishing nets.
Their responsibilities may include:
- Preparing and inspecting nets before fishing operations.
- Assisting with setting and hauling nets according to instructions.
- Operating or assisting with fishing equipment within the scope of their authorization and training.
- Helping collect, sort, and handle the catch.
- Cleaning and organizing nets and work areas after fishing operations.
- Maintaining equipment so that it is ready for the next operation.
In this type of work, crew members need to understand safe working positions, proper rope and net handling, and effective communication with the team. Moving nets and ropes under tension can create serious accident risks if they are not handled correctly.
Duties of Squid Fishing Vessel Crew
On squid fishing vessels, crew members perform tasks related to the squid-catching system used by the vessel. Their activities may include operating fishing gear, handling equipment, and supporting lighting systems when squid-attracting lights are used.
The duties of squid fishing crew may include:
- Preparing squid fishing equipment before operations.
- Inspecting and arranging fishing lines or jigs according to instructions.
- Assisting with fishing activities based on the method being used.
- Supporting lighting equipment operations when these fall within their responsibilities.
- Collecting and handling squid catches.
- Assisting with sorting, storage, and maintaining clean working areas.
On vessels that use squid-attracting lights, work may take place at night or follow the vessel’s operational schedule. Prospective crew members should therefore be prepared to adapt to the working pattern, rest periods, and division of duties established on board.
3. Differences in Equipment and Working Environments
The equipment used is another important factor in understanding the differences between net fishing vessels and squid fishing vessels.
| Aspect | Net Fishing Vessel | Squid Fishing Vessel |
|---|---|---|
| Primary fishing gear | Nets suited to the fishing method | Squid fishing lines or specialized fishing systems |
| Supporting equipment | Ropes, winches, pulleys, and net-handling equipment | Fishing lines, jigs, lights, and supporting equipment depending on the vessel’s system |
| Main activities | Preparing, setting, hauling, and handling nets | Preparing fishing gear, catching squid, and handling the catch |
| Catch handling | Collecting, sorting, and storing fish | Collecting, sorting, and storing squid |
| Work patterns | Follow the vessel’s fishing schedule and operational stages | May follow fishing schedules that involve night operations |
This table provides a general overview. Actual job responsibilities may vary depending on vessel size, technology, fishing gear, target catch, and company policies.
4. Skills Prospective Crew Members Should Prepare
Although their fishing methods differ, net fishing crew and squid fishing crew require several similar basic skills.
First, prospective crew members need adequate physical fitness to perform their assigned duties according to job requirements. Work on board may involve standing for extended periods, moving equipment, and working in an environment affected by vessel movement.
Second, discipline and teamwork are essential. Fishing operations require coordination among crew members to ensure tasks are carried out according to instructions and safety procedures.
Third, prospective crew members must understand the fundamentals of workplace safety on board. Using personal protective equipment, remaining alert around ropes and moving machinery, and following instructions are all important for reducing accident risks.
Fourth, the ability to adapt to an international working environment is also important. Following instructions, communicating effectively, and respecting cultural differences can help crew members adjust when working alongside people from different countries.
Prospective crew members should also ensure that they meet the required documentation, certification, medical examination, and training requirements for their intended position and applicable regulations.
5. Which Vessel Type Is More Suitable for Prospective Crew Members?
There is no single vessel type that is automatically more suitable for every prospective crew member. The right choice depends on job requirements, experience, physical readiness, adaptability, and the type of work the individual wants to learn.
Prospective crew members interested in net fishing can learn about net-based fishing operations, including rope handling and related equipment. Those interested in squid fishing can learn about specialized fishing gear, lighting systems where applicable, and the vessel’s operational patterns.
Before accepting a job offer, make sure you understand the position, daily responsibilities, work schedule, contract duration, facilities, and safety requirements. Do not assume that all vessels of the same type have identical working systems or job assignments.
Prepare for Your Fishing Crew Career with PT RNT Utama Indonesia
Understanding the differences between net fishing vessels and squid fishing vessels is an important first step for prospective crew members who want to learn about working on international fishing vessels. Knowledge of fishing methods, equipment, job responsibilities, and safety helps candidates prepare more effectively.
PT RNT Utama Indonesia supports the recruitment and placement of Indonesian crew members for international employment opportunities. Prospective crew members should follow official recruitment information, meet the requirements of available positions, and understand the employment terms before making a decision.
Interested in opportunities on net fishing vessels or squid fishing vessels? Follow the official recruitment information from PT RNT Utama Indonesia and prepare your qualifications according to the requirements of the available positions. Understanding the work in advance can help you start your career with greater readiness, discipline, and professionalism.
