Commercial Fisherman Apprenticeship Program

Become the next generation of conservation-minded fishermen with the CFAP!

This free, month-long program is the perfect entry point for hard-working, self-motivated individuals interested in a career in Rhode Island's commercial fishing industry.

What you'll learn:

• Essential skills through hands-on training in safety, seamanship, navigation, vessel maintenance, and gear repair.
• Industry knowledge through classroom sessions on fishing as a business, fisheries management, regulations, cooperative research, data collection, species identification, and responsible fishing practices.
• Practical experience with 3 days at sea, choosing from diverse fishing methods like trawling, lobstering, gillnetting, and dredging.

Program details:

• Location: Point Judith and Kingston, Rhode Island
• Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• What's provided: All training materials, course books, gear (boots, foul-weather gear, gloves), daily lunch stipend, and a $1,000 completion stipend.
• Bonus: Assistance with securing employment on a local vessel upon program completion.

Ready to launch your career as a commercial fisherman? Apply for the CFAP today!