Crews are often paid a share of the catch. That's how almost all fishermen are paid. None get an hourly wage. 

And almost no one here wants to do that kind of work. That's why they have to get foreign workers. 

It turns out that Filipinos have the best work ethics and boat owners request them the most. 

What they get paid here goes a long way where they come from. When they're here they don't have to pay for food or a place to stay. And no US taxes withheld. 

If it were so terrible, why do the same crews keep signing up for repeated stints? Some for 10 years?

Seems like there is a positive side that's not being reported.