If you own a company in the commercial fishing industry, you would do well to partner with commercial fishing organizations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, a commercial fish farming association may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a fishing organization, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check BBB or other industry accreditations.

2. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

3. Many commercial fish farm associations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an accredited commercial fishing organization

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: Both North Carolina Fisheries Association and the Cape Cod Commercial Hook Fishermen's Association offer a variety of membership options including discounts, networking opportunities and representation.

Join commercial fishing companies that offer a full schedule of events and conferences

Events and conferences are a boon to any business. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry, and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally-recognized events.

I recommend: United States Trout Farmers Association offers calendar of events for educational and networking opportunities. The Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen's Association includes public hearings and commission meetings on their events calendar.

Find online commercial fish farming associations that maintain active web forums

The forum on an industry organization's website can be a great source of support. Forums are a real-time communication opportunity. Any business with a question or concern can raise it in a forum and receive up-to-date responses from a variety of experts. Check to see that forum discussions have current activity before you join.

I recommend: The Small Boat Commercial Salmon Fishermens' Association offers information on message boards where industry professionals share their ideas. Commercial Fishing provides an online forum that covers all topics of commercial fishing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Networking is a great business tool. Make sure you're stocked with business cards so you can market yourself and your company to other fishery organizations.