There are several different Alaska commercial fishing seasons depending on the type of fish being caught.

It is hard to keep track of all the different seasons as there are many types of fish and some seasons last for only a few days, while others continue almost year-round.

Which of the Alaska commercial fishing seasons is right for you?

The easiest way to determine this is to break the seasons down into two main ones: winter and summer. Most fishing seasons fall into one of the two.

Generally, the winter season pays better but the work conditions are often harsher. Although the summer season may not pay as well, the weather is warmer making for a more comfortable work environment.

Besides the above criteria when considering work in the Alaska commercial fishing industry, you will need to determine what your job when be during the off season. Will you work both fishing seasons? Or will you get some other type of seasonal job? Of course, you can always go back to your Alaska job for the next season.

After determining the season you would like to work you will need to decide if you wish to work as a processor or as a fisherman. While fishing jobs tend to pay better, processing jobs are easier to obtain.

Expect to work about 12 to 18 hours a day. Depending on the season and the company you can make about $3,000 to $8,000 a month processing fish, or around $4,000 to $20,000 a month as a fisherman.

To make your job hunting much easier it is best to have a large list of potential processing and fishing employers.