Fisher
Level 2 · IntermediateAgriculture, environmental and animal care 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A Fisher apprenticeship trains you to work safely and effectively on fishing vessels, catching fish and shellfish using commercial gear such as nets, lines, and creels in UK and offshore waters. You will learn seamanship, navigation, and fish handling skills required to operate as a professional crew member. This standard leads to progression as a skipper or to specialist roles in aquaculture and fisheries management.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Seamanship and safe working on board fishing vessels
Navigation and watchkeeping at sea
Operation and maintenance of fishing gear
Fish and shellfish handling, storage, and quality grading
Maritime safety including survival, firefighting, and first aid
Fisheries legislation and quota regulations
Engine room awareness and basic vessel maintenance
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Work safely on deck in all weather conditions
Shoot and haul nets, lines, or creels under instruction
Sort, grade, and store catch to maintain quality
Assist with navigation and vessel watchkeeping
Maintain fishing gear and deck equipment
Follow fisheries regulations regarding catch and quotas
Carry out vessel safety drills and emergency procedures
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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