Ready to Fish? What to Expect on Fishing Jobs
Commercial fishing in Asia is at its steady growth especially in Taiwan. What is ironic about this is Taiwanese crew never increased through the years. Commercial fishing depends on the crews recruited from neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and some come from countries like Vanuatu, India and Sri Lanka and mainland China.
Commercial fishing is listed as the most dangerous job since 2007 until this writing. Occupational deaths related to commercial fishing is around 400 deaths per 100,000. During my stay in Taiwan, I have met several fishermen mostly Filipinos and they all related the same story and treatment they received from their superiors. Maltreatment and physical and verbal abuse especially out in the high seas. New crews are forced to work even during their periods of adjustment. Most of the time, following orders is really hard due to communication barriers.
Technologies used in the vessel are new to most crew and even earlier crews never learn sufficiently the technology used in fishing. Only those who are able to adjust rapidly and master the technology are given commissions or tips from their superiors.
The rooms, are most of the time infested with roaches and bed bugs. These little insects bite the skin and causes plenty of skin conditions which only worsens everyday. These little critters are hard to exterminate because they hide in every nuke and cranny. Pesticides are usually given to every room but proves to be very ineffective due to the nature of these insects. The pesticide do not penetrate well enough into their burrows.
What is worse is there is no limit to working hours. When work assigned to one of the crews or group of crews is not done yet, they are not allowed to sleep. Food is served twice daily (most of the time), two Chinese bowls of porridge in the morning and some veggies, chicken feet, and some fish in the middle of the night. To most Filipinos, the Taiwanese style of cooking is not good. Veggies are usually cooked in coconut oil and sweet soy sauce. Noodles come in handy when working late.
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