Seamanship

Whether you are on the water for work or fun, every safe and successful trip starts with preparation and an understanding of the vessel, its equipment, the crew, and the conditions in which they will be operating.

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Seamanship Topics

Performing vessel maintenance in a shipyard.

Preparing for a Hazardous Job

There's more to preparing for a commercial fishing trip than buying groceries, fuel, ice, and bait. Not only for commercial fishermen, this article discusses the safety preparations every captain should undertake before leaving port.

Knowing how to read the weather can make the difference between a successful trip and a disaster.

Reading the Weather

Do you know what causes bad weather, how to get the most out of National Weather Service broadcasts, or read weather maps? Your understanding of the weather can make the difference between a successful trip and a disaster.

Handling Fishing Gear

Handling fishing gear safely has a major impact on the safety of your vessel and your crew.

Fatigue, Hydration, and Nutrition

Adequate sleep and nutrition contribute to a crew that performs well on the job and in an emergency.

Flooded fishing vessel aground in the surf.

Safe Seamanship

Safe seamanship is not automatically bestowed upon you just because you own a vessel. It comes with knowledge, practice, and an attitude that prudently evaluates risks.