Shipowner (Fishery: Self-Employed Proprietor without Employees)
せんしゅ（ぎょぎょう：やとうなしぎょうぬし）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A self-employed individual who owns a fishing vessel to engage in fishery operations and takes responsibility for navigation and fishing activities.
Description
A shipowner (fishery: self-employed proprietor without employees) is a self-employed individual who owns their own fishing vessel and manages and executes all fishery activities. They handle a wide range of tasks, from fishing ground selection, navigation, preparation and management of fishing gear, to storage and sale of catch. They are required to ensure safe operations and secure catch volumes. They also manage procurement of fuel and materials, vessel maintenance, and maintenance of fishing rights while responding to changes in weather and sea conditions. Income is highly dependent on catch volumes and market prices, making business planning and financial management skills essential.
Future Outlook
The importance of fishery resource management is increasing, and expertise in sustainable fishery management is in demand. Due to aging population, declining birthrates, and successor shortages, operations as a self-employed proprietor are challenging, but there are possibilities for new revenue models through high value-added products or integration with recreational fishing.
Personality Traits
Autonomous / High Crisis Management Ability / Interested in the Natural Environment / Patient
Work Style
Long Hours / Outdoor Work / Self-Employed / Solo Work / Variable Schedule
Career Path
Fishing Boat Crew → Independent Small-Scale Shipowner → Fishery Cooperative Instructor → Fishery Consultant
Required Skills
Fishing Gear Operation and Management / Navigation Skills / Vessel Handling Skills / Vessel Maintenance
Recommended Skills
Financial Management / Fish Finder Operation / Navigation Planning / Negotiation Skills / Sea Condition Observation and Prediction
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because they need to respond quickly to changes in sea conditions and fishing grounds. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because maintenance errors on the hull or fishing gear can lead to accidents or reduced catch. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Because they need to lead and advance all fishery activities themselves. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because they need the physical stamina to endure long operations and heavy labor. |
| Planning & Organization | Because they need to plan fishing operations and procure materials according to fishing seasons and weather conditions. |
| Problem Solving | Because quick judgment is required during troubles at sea or weather changes. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because of the high stress from long hours at sea and changes in natural conditions. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Mainly solo or family operations with small team sizes. |
Related Qualifications
- Small Vessel Operator License
Aliases
- Fishing Boat Owner
Related Jobs
- Chief Engineer
- Engineer
- Fishing Boat Captain
- Navigator