Commercial fishing

Fishing vessel insurance for boats and crews on Northwest waters

Commercial fishing carries hazards standard boat insurance doesn't address, from gear damage and lost catch to crew injuries under maritime law. We insure single boats and fleets, from small gillnetters to large trawlers, with policies that meet harbor, lender and association requirements.

Same-day certificates for harbors, lenders and associations

Coverage options

Marine coverage for every part of your operation

Hull and machinery

Physical damage to the hull, engines, navigation equipment and permanently attached machinery from collision, storms, fire and other perils.

Protection and indemnity

Liability for third-party bodily injury, property damage, collision liability and wreck removal.

Fishing equipment

Nets, traps, pots, lines and other gear, aboard the vessel or stored ashore.

Crew coverage

Jones Act and maritime employer's liability for crew injury claims, including maintenance and cure obligations under maritime law.

Pollution liability

Cleanup costs and third-party claims from fuel spills or other discharges, often required by harbors and regulators.

Loss of catch and income

Reimbursement for lost catch value or income while your vessel is out of commission after a covered loss.

Know your policy

What's covered and common exclusions

Typically covered

  • Collision and grounding damage
  • Storm and weather damage
  • Fire, explosion and lightning
  • Sinking and capsizing
  • Theft and piracy
  • Salvage and towing expenses
  • Crew injury and Jones Act claims

Common exclusions

  • Normal wear and tear
  • Gradual deterioration and corrosion
  • Mechanical breakdown (unless added)
  • Intentional damage
  • War and terrorism (unless added)
  • Operating outside navigational limits
  • Illegal fishing operations
Navigational areas

Coverage for Pacific Northwest and Alaska waters

Puget Sound

Inland waters, the San Juan Islands and protected waterways.

Alaska waters

Bristol Bay, the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska.

Pacific Coast

Washington, Oregon and California coastal waters.

Extended coverage

Custom navigational limits for your fishing grounds.

Why work with us

Marine coverage from people who know fishing

Marine experience

We've insured Pacific Northwest fishing operations since 1992 and understand the risks you face on the water.

Marine carrier options

As a broker, we compare marine insurers for coverage and price.

Certificates and claims

Same-day certificates for harbors, lenders and associations, and help with claims to support a fair recovery.

FAQ

Common questions about fishing vessel insurance

What's the difference between hull and machinery and P&I coverage?
Hull and machinery covers physical damage to your vessel, engines and equipment. Protection and indemnity (P&I) is liability coverage for third-party claims such as bodily injury, property damage and pollution. Most fishing operations need both.
Does my policy cover my crew members?
Crew coverage is typically provided through Jones Act and maritime employer's liability (MEL). It covers crew injury claims and your maintenance and cure obligations under maritime law, and it's essential for any vessel with crew.
Can I get coverage for Alaska fishing seasons?
Yes. We regularly arrange coverage for vessels fishing Bristol Bay, the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska, with navigational limits set for your fishing grounds and seasons.
What affects my fishing vessel insurance premium?
Vessel value, age and condition; navigational area and fishing grounds; type of fishing; claims history; captain experience; safety equipment; and the limits you choose. We'll help you balance coverage and cost.
Do you provide certificates for harbor and lender requirements?
Yes. We provide same-day certificates for harbors, marinas, lenders, fishing associations and anyone else requiring proof of coverage.

Protect your fishing operation

Get a quote built around your vessel, gear, crew and fishing grounds. We typically respond within one to two business days.

Coverage descriptions are general summaries for education. They are not legal, tax or coverage advice, a statement of coverage, an offer or a binder. Coverage, limits, navigational areas and eligibility are governed by the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policies issued and are subject to underwriting.