The first-ever Washington Fishermen’s Convention is coming to Westport this winter, according to a news release from Washington Sea Grant (WSG).
The convention will take place Dec. 4 to 8. Current and aspiring fishermen can register by visiting https://tinyurl.com/2p9zc7vn.
The keystone of the convention is a multi-track educational and networking conference for both new and experienced commercial fishermen. The next 25 conference tickets sold will be only $25, the news release stated.
Hosted by Washington Sea Grant with funding from the Young Fishermen’s Development Act, and planned by an advisory committee of commercial fishermen, the Washington Fishermen’s Convention will bring together experienced fishermen, those new to the industry, and those hoping to enter it.
Fishermen can participate in whichever way makes sense for them, with up to five days of learning and networking opportunities available as well as a two-day conference and individually priced training sessions. Commercial fishermen receive a discounted price on trainings, and scholarships and industry-funded conference tickets for new fishermen are available, according to the release.
“Our hope is that the Washington Fishermen’s Convention will bring together our diverse fishing sectors, different generations of fishermen, and those with decades of experience along with new fishermen for a few days of workforce development and social connection,” Bridget Trosin, Washington Sea Grant fisheries and boating team lead, said. “Our commercial fishermen are an important part of Washington’s maritime culture, and we need more of them.”
The convention’s schedule is as follows:
• Dec. 4-5: Drill Instructor and Fishermen First Aid and Safety Training — U.S. Coast Guard-approved trainings to conduct drills and help to keep crews safe at sea will be held.
• Dec. 6-7: Washington Fishermen’s Conference — A multi-track educational and networking conference and community meals for both new and experienced fishermen.
Topics include hands-on knot tying and gear repair, finance and insurance technical assistance, crew/captain matchmaking, and more, according to the release.
• Dec. 8: Sea Trial — Participants test their seaworthiness on a commercial fishing vessel.
All of the Convention’s offerings will take place in Westport at The Siren (421 Neddie Rose Drive) and McCausland Hall (2200 Nyhus St. N).
A leader in marine outreach, research and education, Washington Sea Grant has supported Washington’s fishing industry for more than 50 years.
From Coast Guard-approved Drill Instructor and Fishermen’s First Aid at Sea training to fisheries research and Washington seafood-focused consumer education, Washington Sea Grant provides information, tools, technical assistance and training to support sustainable operations, product quality and resilient fisheries, the release stated.
