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Deck and Fishing Hand Cover Letter Template

Professional template and example for Australian job applications

Deck and Fishing Hand Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager, I’ve spent the last few years at sea handling ropes and wires during berthing and keeping a sharp eye on safety. In my last role I helped coordinate a routine of mooring checks and deck equipment maintenance that cut downtime by a noticeable margin, and I kept calm under watch duties when the weather turned. I’m ready to bring that level of reliability to [Company Name] as a deck and fishing hand. I’m comfortable with all the core tasks you list: patrols for safety at sea, stowage and securing cargo, and maintaining lifesaving gear. I’ve worked with cast nets and pots, prepared lines and bait, and hauled in fishing gear on a regular basis. I understand the importance of keeping rigging in good shape and ensuring towing gear is ready when needed, while also staying vigilant for hazards on deck. One clear example from my recent role at [Previous Company] involved coordinating a berthing window during a busy shift, where I helped attach gear and towing cables safely and confirmed all deck equipment was within spec before departure. We saw a smooth handover and a clean start to the next voyage, with lifebuoys and firefighting gear checked and ready. It’s this practical, no-nonsense approach I bring to the job. I’m happy to discuss how I can contribute to your team and the ship’s safety and efficiency. I’m available for a chat at your convenience and can provide references on request. Kind regards, [Your Name]

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What happens next: Our AI will match your skills to the job requirements, highlight relevant achievements, and create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate.

Why This Deck and Fishing Hand Cover Letter Works

Opening Paragraph

Hook with specific achievement + role alignment

Skills Match

Maps experience to job needs + company research

STAR Example

Situation-Task-Action-Result with numbers

Professional Close

Forward momentum + availability

Key Requirements for Deck and Fishing Hand Roles

Essential Skills to Highlight

Make sure your cover letter demonstrates these key skills:

Handle Ropes and WiresOperate Mooring EquipmentStand Lookout WatchesAdjust Ships Course As DirectedAssist with Cargo OperationsStow and Secure CargoPatrol for Safety at SeaMaintain Deck EquipmentInspect Rigging and EquipmentMaintain Lifesaving and Firefighting EquipmentCast Nets and PotsPrepare Lines and BaitHaul in Fishing GearSort and Refrigerate Catch

Tip: Include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your STAR example paragraph.

Core Responsibilities to Address

Align your experience with these typical responsibilities:

  • Handle Ropes and Wires During Berthing
  • Stand Lookout Watches at Sea
  • Assist with Cargo Operations
  • Patrol Ships for Safety
  • Maintain Deck Equipment
  • ...and more

Tip: Reference 2-3 of these responsibilities when describing your relevant experience.

Deck and Fishing Hand Cover Letter Best Practices

Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Opening (40-60 words): State the role and company, plus one compelling hook
Match (100-130 words): Map 2-3 achievements to their top requirements
Proof (80-100 words): One detailed STAR example with quantified results
Close (30-40 words): Confirm fit and invite discussion

Essential Requirements

  • • Length: 250-350 words (one A4 page)
  • • Australian English spelling and dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • • Address to specific person when possible
  • • No photos or personal details (DOB, etc.)

What Makes It Strong

  • • Specific achievements with numbers
  • • Company research in second paragraph
  • • Keywords from the job description
  • • Professional but personable tone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Generic opening lines
  • • Repeating your CV chronologically
  • • Including salary unless asked
  • • Exceeding one page