Purse Seine

Term from Fishing industry explained for recruiters

Purse seining is a common fishing method used in commercial fishing operations. It involves using a large net that's dropped in a circle around a school of fish, then drawn closed (like a purse) at the bottom to trap the fish. This method is particularly important for catching schooling fish like tuna, sardines, and mackerel. When you see this term on a resume, it indicates someone has experience with large-scale commercial fishing operations, typically on bigger vessels that require teamwork and coordination. Similar terms you might see include "seine netting" or "ring netting."

Examples in Resumes

Operated as lead deck hand on vessels using Purse Seine and Seine Net fishing methods

Managed crew of 8 during Purse Seining operations for tuna fishing

Maintained and repaired Purse Seine equipment on 90-foot commercial vessel

Typical job title: "Purse Seine Fishermen"

Also try searching for:

Commercial Fisherman Seine Net Operator Fishing Vessel Crew Deck Hand Seine Fishing Captain Commercial Fishing Crew Fishing Vessel Operator

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Captain/Supervisor Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure safety during purse seine operations in rough weather?

Expected Answer: Should discuss crew coordination, weather monitoring, equipment checks, and specific safety protocols for different conditions. Should mention emergency procedures and decision-making process for when to halt operations.

Q: What factors do you consider when planning a purse seine fishing operation?

Expected Answer: Should mention fish migration patterns, weather conditions, crew management, fuel efficiency, equipment maintenance schedules, and compliance with fishing regulations and quotas.

Experienced Crew Level Questions

Q: What are the main steps in deploying and retrieving a purse seine net?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the process from locating fish schools to setting the net, closing it, and bringing the catch aboard, including crew coordination and safety measures.

Q: How do you maintain purse seine equipment during a fishing season?

Expected Answer: Should discuss net repair, regular equipment checks, proper storage, and preventive maintenance procedures for winches and other related equipment.

Entry Level Questions

Q: What basic safety equipment is required for purse seine fishing?

Expected Answer: Should know personal protective equipment like life vests, work boots, gloves, and basic vessel safety equipment and procedures.

Q: What are the basic roles on a purse seine fishing vessel?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe different crew positions like captain, engineer, deck boss, and deck hands, and their basic responsibilities.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic deck work and equipment handling
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Basic net mending
  • Following crew instructions

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Net deployment and retrieval
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Weather pattern recognition
  • Crew coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Operation planning and management
  • Advanced equipment troubleshooting
  • Crew supervision
  • Navigation and fish finding

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No safety certification or training
  • Lack of physical fitness for demanding work
  • No experience with team-based operations
  • Unable to explain basic fishing operations