We’ve all seen the brightly colored tuna boats on the open sea. But most people don’t know how expensive these boats can be. In this post, we’ll look at some of the factors that go into the cost of a tuna boat and find out how much they can range in price. So, how much does a tuna boat cost and how much do tuna fishermen make? Let’s dive in.
1. How Much is a 20 Foot Boat?
Deciding between the perfect boat can be daunting, but one thing to consider is the cost. A 20-foot boat typically falls between $10,000 and $20,000, making it a cost-effective investment. Boats of this size are ideal for a wide range of uses such as recreation, fishing, and diving activities – giving you plenty of exciting and worthwhile options. (See Can a Motor Yacht Travel across the Atlantic?)
2. How Much does a Tuna Boat Cost?
A tuna boat is essential equipment for commercial fishmongers and other seafaring professionals. With advances in technology, these boats have become complex and highly specialized vessels allowing trawlers to target the schools of tuna they intend to catch accurately.
So, how much does a tuna boat cost? Although buying a new tuna boat can be cost-prohibitive, with prices ranging anywhere from $80,000 to $350,000 depending on the boat’s size and specific features, it is the best method of consistent fishing over time. Fortunately, most major ports and harbors host a vibrant fishing community that allows vessel owners access to a wide array of used boats at much lower costs.
3. How Much do Tuna Fishermen Make?
Working as a tuna fisherman is one of the earliest professions and can be physically demanding. Their salaries have been found to vary greatly, with the top 10 percent earning $38,490 per year in 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Those within the top half of the profession have been reported to have earned an average annual salary of $27,880. Also, the middle half of fishermen are reeling in an average salary of $25,590 yearly. Unfortunately for those at the bottom percentile, they made only around $17,300 annually, while individuals in the fourth lowest group observed wages closer to $19,880 per year.
4. What Kind of Boats do They Use on Wicked Tuna?
Since you know how much does a tuna boat cost, note that on the reality television series Wicked Tuna, the crew uses a variety of vessels to locate and capture the giant Bluefin Tuna. The most impressive boat used on the show is V Hot Tuna, a custom-built Calvin Beal 44-foot vessel created in Lamoine, Maine, by SW Boatworks.
It has been estimated that V Hot Tuna costs around $70,500 US dollars, demonstrating its sturdy design and overall value. V Hot Tuna is easily recognized among show fans and is known for maximizing catches without ever cutting corners.
5. What is the Most Expensive Boat on Wicked Tuna?
Besides wondering how much does a tuna boat cost, you must know that the V Hot Tuna is the prestigious vessel on National Geographic’s Wicked Tuna. Featuring a 48′ Dixon Series 60 Detroit motor, this floating dynamo is the series’ most expensive model at $300,000. This durable craft can take on the brutal Atlantic waters during their grueling fishing expeditions. It has become an iconic part of the show for contributing to the team’s success. Check out What Show has the Most Seasons?
6. What was the Most Expensive Tuna on Wicked Tuna?
On Wicked Tuna, bluefin tuna holds the record for being the most expensive tuna. It goes around $40 per pound.
7. How Much do the Reels Cost on Wicked Tuna?
The popular television series Wicked Tuna paints a realistically accurate picture of the cost of bluefin fishing gear. According to New England Sportsman, the reels and rods used on the show likely cost around $1,200.
This cost is understandable when you look at the specialized nature of the equipment. High-end sea reels require advanced craftsmanship and precision engineering, making them expensive investments. Luckily, with proper maintenance and care, buyers can expect these pieces to last for many successful fishing seasons. Read When will the Next Season of Empire start?
8. Does the Winner of Wicked Tuna Get Paid?
Fishing on the hit National Geographic show Wicked Tuna is no easy feat, but those who come out on top at the end of the season can look forward to a generous reward.
Though no physical trophy or award is presented to them, the winner’s reward lies in their payday as they receive a percentage of their overall earnings from that season. It is an incentive that keeps competitors coming back year after year and offers an additional thrill to fans watching.
9. How Much do the Guys on Wicked Tuna Make?
While the exact earnings of the cast members of Wicked Tuna have been unclear for quite some time, it is reported that much of their income comes from the show itself. According to reports, cast members eventually began making $10,000 per episode. This figure is in addition to any revenue they make from the fish they catch while filming the show. Read Who is Clay Virtue in The 100 Series?
10. How Much do the Deckhands on Wicked Tuna Make?
Wicked Tuna is well known for its fascinating look into the lives of fishermen and their hardworking crews. It may surprise many that the crew members make quite good money onboard the fishing boats, with an annual salary range between $36,453 and $53,142.
This salary depends on experience, work ethic, and the catches they can get from the surrounding waters. The pay of these deckhands may make up for some of the less-than-ideal working conditions, like rough weather and long hours out at sea.
So, now you know how much does a tuna boat cost. A tuna boat is a serious investment, and the cost reflects that. If you’re considering entering the tuna fishing industry, be prepared to spend at least $1 million on a quality vessel. Of course, the price is worth considering the potential profitability of tuna fishing and finding the most expensive tuna. With proper care and maintenance, your boat will serve you well for many years to come. (Also read How much does Fred Lewis make on Gold Rush?)
