For commercial fishermen ready to take the next step toward boat ownership, the New England Young Fishermen’s Alliance (NEYFA) is now accepting applications for its 2025 Deckhand to Captain (DTC) Training Program.
This nine-month intensive course, based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is designed to equip experienced deckhands with the skills to transition into owner-operators.
Now entering its fourth year, the DTC program provides a hands-on, mentor-driven approach to business development in commercial fishing. Trainees gain critical knowledge in business planning, financing, industry regulations, vessel operations, collaborative marketing, and public speaking. The program offers one-on-one mentorship with seasoned captains, class guest speakers, and industry professionals, all guided by NEYFA’s founder, Andrea Tomlinson.
Tomlinson, a dedicated advocate for the future of commercial fishing, launched the program in 2022 after years of development. Her passion for supporting working waterfronts and strengthening the next generation of fishermen is evident in the program’s success. “We graduated four trainers in our first year, six in 2023, and our 2024 cohort is already making waves- securing loans and advancing their businesses,” she shared during last year’s program.
In addition to coursework, the program included a two-day safety and survival training with Fishing Partnership Support Services (FPSS) and requires trainees to engage in 15 hours of research or advocacy. Upon successful completion, participants receive a $5000 stipend, and their mentors earn $2000. The USDA, National Sea Grant, and the Builders Initiative support the program.
Advocacy remains a key focus of the program, preparing young fishermen to navigate the industry’s regulatory landscape. “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the plate,” Tomlinson often reminds trainees, echoing the advice of veteran fisherman David Goethel.
With commercial fishing facing mounting challenges, the DTC Training Program is building a pipeline of skilled, business-savvy fishermen ready to sustain New England’s fishing industry for generations.
Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open to commercial fishermen from New Hampshire, southern Maine, and northern Massachusetts with at least three years of experience. To learn more or apply, visit neyoungfishermen.org or contact Andrea Tomlinson at andrea@neyoungfishermen.org.
