What are the odds . . . - Forums Archive

Riversong

2009-06-02 23:26:00

Of showing up in Sitka in mid-June and finding a deckhand job on a power troller?

The slot I was planning on fell through, the captain just bailed on me, changing his mind, and hired a relative. Hard to argue with that one. :(

So, if I get a round trip ticket to Sitka determined to find a deckhand job, I'm very competent and capable, but also am a greenhorn, will I be likely to find work?

Or, am I more likely to get shut out and be very happy my ticket was round trip?

Suggestions for places to camp out or other short term accommodations would be appreciated.

PM me if need be.

Regards,

Riversong

The Chaser

2009-06-03 13:02:08

Go to Old thomson and look up the F/V Pat he is on the first finger. If he doesn't already have a deck hand I would jump on it. Great guy and catchs more than his fair share. I fished with him for two seasons and he taught me a lot about fishing that area.

Jon

2009-06-03 17:08:31

I'd say you would have a very good chance. A lot of people will want a deckhand for the July king opening (and longer if it works out), green or not. I don't know of any specific camping spots, but I'm sure there are a few within 20 minutes walk of the harbor(s). Try calling the harbormaster(s) or Sitka Parks & Rec.

ambition

2009-06-06 23:40:02

I think your odds are good. I have had a couple friends come up and walk the docks and have found jobs on good boats. Dont just limit yourself to trollers there are also some great jobs on seiners and with the large pink run predicted that could be a good money maker for you. I know there used to be a hostil in town, I believe it was near Sheldon Jackson College, but I am not sure if it still is around. The only camping spots I know are at the ends of the road, one at Blue lake, and one out at Stargavin. Might be a camping spot by Sealing Cove on Japonski Island. There is a parking lot that motorhomes set up at but you may also be able to set up a tent there, Im not sure on that but its an option. Good luck to you.

ata

2009-06-07 00:07:39

Riversong...

I'm glad to see the part in your post about 'rountrip ticket'. Too many people over the years don't plan for the 'unlikely event'.

Many people got their start in fishing by coming up to first work for the processors, so don't forget to check with them as an option. Puts you in good proximity to meet and check out skippers, and helps ensure you can feed yourself while hangin at the camp ground. Also gives another perspective on the industry and helps explain why your skipper is so dang picky about all that 'quality-fish-is-food' business.=)

Here's a job site to checkout: http://www.labor.state.ak.us/esd_alaska_jobs/

Don't forget to buy a crew license: http://www.admin.adfg.state.ak.us/license/

Good luck!

Dale, ATA

Riversong

2009-06-07 18:40:59

Your encouragement is great and the info on lodging is helpful.

I'll have a round trip ticket as I always have a plan B in mind, usually C and D are in the works too.

Help me out with timing here. I can arrive any time, starting tomorrow.

Would it be best to show up soon, giving me time to talk to folks and find something, help out with preparations?

Or, being on a bit of a budget and with free lodging where I am now, might I also succeed if I wait two weeks and land in town on, say, June 22nd?

Thanks again,

Riversong

ambition

2009-06-12 05:51:20

In my opinion I wouldn't wait to long, most captains would want to get you out fishing a few times before the July opener so you can learn the boat. But then I have always been the kind of person to hurry up and wait.