When the fishing season is in full swing, every day on the water counts. Whether you're fishing in Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, or anywhere in between, taking your vessel out of service for repairs can mean lost time, lost income, and missed opportunities.
It's understandable why many commercial fishermen choose to "finish the season first" and deal with repairs later. But delaying repairs can sometimes turn a relatively minor issue into a much larger—and much more expensive—problem.
Here's what every vessel owner should keep in mind before deciding to put off that repair.
Marine environments are tough on vessels. Saltwater, vibration, weather, and constant use can quickly make a small issue much worse.
A minor crack in the hull, a leaking shaft seal, damaged railings, or electrical issues may not seem urgent today, but weeks of continued operation can lead to:
In some cases, what could have been a straightforward repair becomes a much more extensive claim—or worse, a loss that could have been prevented.
Even if you aren't able to make repairs immediately, don't ignore the damage.
Take clear photos from multiple angles, note the date you first discovered the issue, and keep records of any inspections or conversations with your mechanic or shipyard. If the damage changes over time, continue documenting its condition.
Having thorough documentation can make conversations with your insurance carrier much smoother if a claim becomes necessary.
Temporary repairs are often part of life during a busy fishing season. They can help keep a vessel operating safely until permanent repairs can be completed.
However, it's important to understand that not every temporary repair is appropriate for every situation.
Before making repairs yourself—or authorizing work—consider whether the damage could affect an insurance claim. In some cases, repairing or altering damaged equipment before it's been documented may complicate the claims process.
One of the biggest mistakes vessel owners make is waiting until after repairs have started to contact their insurance provider.
If you suspect the damage may result in a claim, reach out to your insurance agent as soon as possible. They can help you understand:
Having these conversations early can save time, reduce confusion, and help keep the claims process moving smoothly.
Your vessel is more than just equipment, it's your livelihood. While it's tempting to squeeze every possible fishing day out of the season, delaying necessary repairs can sometimes create bigger problems than the downtime you're trying to avoid.
When damage occurs, document it, communicate with your insurance team, and make informed decisions before repairs begin. A little planning today may help prevent a much larger repair bill, or a much larger interruption to your season tomorrow.
