Gillnetting

Term from Fishing industry explained for recruiters

Gillnetting is a common commercial fishing method where special nets are hung vertically in the water to catch fish. The net works like a wall in the water - fish swim into it and get caught by their gills, hence the name. This method is used to catch many different types of fish, particularly salmon, herring, and other mid-water fish species. It's one of several commercial fishing techniques, alongside trawling and purse seining. When you see this term on a resume, it indicates someone has experience with this specific type of fishing operation, including handling the nets, understanding regulations, and working as part of a fishing crew.

Examples in Resumes

Operated Gillnetting vessels for salmon fishing in Alaska

Maintained and repaired Gillnet equipment on commercial fishing boats

Led a crew of 4 in Gillnetting operations during peak fishing seasons

Typical job title: "Gillnet Fishermen"

Also try searching for:

Commercial Fisherman Gillnet Operator Fishing Vessel Crew Net Fisherman Commercial Fishing Deck Hand Gillnetter

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Level Questions

Q: How do you plan a gillnetting operation considering weather and seasonal patterns?

Expected Answer: An experienced gillnetter should explain how they check weather forecasts, understand fish migration patterns, and make decisions about when and where to set nets based on conditions and regulations.

Q: What experience do you have managing a gillnetting crew?

Expected Answer: Should discuss crew supervision, safety protocols, training new crew members, and coordinating operations during peak fishing periods.

Mid-Level Questions

Q: What are the main safety considerations when gillnetting?

Expected Answer: Should describe personal safety equipment, net handling safety, weather monitoring, and emergency procedures specific to gillnet operations.

Q: How do you maintain gillnetting equipment?

Expected Answer: Should explain net repair, regular equipment checks, proper storage methods, and basic vessel maintenance related to gillnetting operations.

Entry Level Questions

Q: What is gillnetting and how does it work?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of how gillnets catch fish and describe the main parts of the gillnetting equipment.

Q: What physical demands should you expect in gillnetting work?

Expected Answer: Should understand the requirements for lifting heavy nets, working long hours, dealing with weather conditions, and maintaining balance on a moving vessel.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic net handling and repair
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Physical stamina and teamwork
  • Basic fishing vessel operations

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent net deployment and retrieval
  • Equipment maintenance and repair
  • Weather pattern knowledge
  • Understanding of fishing regulations

Senior (5+ years)

  • Crew supervision and training
  • Advanced fishing strategy
  • Emergency situation management
  • Fishing operation planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic fishing safety protocols
  • Lack of physical fitness for demanding work
  • No understanding of fishing regulations
  • Unable to work in team environments
  • No experience with basic net maintenance

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