Fishermen catch a variety of fish and other creatures from salt and fresh water areas. Fishermen catch fish to sell to local markets, and also just as a leisure activity. More recently, fishermen have begun to advertise their industry by conducting fishing outings for tourists and locals wishing to take up the fishing game. Fish are caught from either ocean, coastal or inland waters.

Fishermen on large commercial trawlers may go out on fishing hauls for along time and may need to store their catch for long periods. For these fishermen, storing their fish is a crucial aspect of the job. Their large purpose built boats have cool rooms and industrial icemakers below deck for preserving and storing their catch.

Fishermen use equipment such as nets, lines, traps, pots, dillies, rakes or towed dredges.