Westport — The Washington Fishermen’s Convention aims to unify and celebrate our state’s fishing industry, with something to offer everyone in the community. The Convention will be an up-to five-day learning and networking opportunity for both new and experienced fishermen.

It starts with a two-day, hands-on, U.S. Coast Guard-approved Drill Instructor and Fishermen’s First Aid at Sea training (participants will earn a certificate). Then, a two-day conference filled with networking opportunities and educational sessions as well as community meals. The Convention will be rounded out by a one-day, on-water sea trial for new fishermen to practice their skills and test their seaworthiness (e.g., sea sickness!) on the back deck of a commercial fishing vessel. 

Participants will be able to register for individual components of the Convention.  
Working agenda:

Training: Thursday, December 4 – Friday, December 5

Drill Instructor and Fishermen First Aid and Safety Training.

Fee: $75 for commercial fishermen. Non-commercial fishermen can attend for $150.

Training venue: McCausland Hall
2200 Nyhus St N
Westport, WA

Space is limited to 24 participants.

Conference: Saturday, December 6 – Sunday, December 7 

Multi-track educational and networking conference and community meals for both new and experienced fishermen. 

FULL AGENDA.

Select topics include:

• Intro to Washington fisheries
• Day in the life of a commercial fisherman
• Finance and insurance
• Hands-on knot tying 
• Mitigating conflict
• Crew contracts
• Making your voice heard with decision-makers
• Regulations and licensing

Fee: $125

Conference venue: 
The Siren
421 Neddie Rose Dr
Westport, WA

Hotels with conference room rates:
Saltwater Inn (located next to conference venue)
Discount code: Westport10

LOGE Westport
Book with discount link.

Registration will also include options to add on an extra meal ticket for a friend or family member to attend dinner on Saturday ($30) and to sponsor a young fisherman to attend the conference ($125). Scholarships or Industry-funded conference tickets for new fishermen are available (contact Bridget Trosin, [email protected]).

Sea Trial: Monday, December 8 (weather dependent)

Test your seaworthiness on a commercial fishing vessel!

Fee: $50

Meeting location:
McCausland Hall
2200 Nyhus St N
Westport, WA

Space is limited.