They tend to focus on the lives of the fishermen. These novels show their daily struggles, their hopes, and their families. In 'Captains Courageous', we see how the young boy adapts to the fishing life and the values of the fishermen around him. They also might show the unique culture and traditions of the New England fishing communities. Fishermen have their own ways of doing things, from how they prepare their boats to how they share their catch, and these novels often explore that.
Often, they feature the harsh sea conditions. The sea is like a powerful character itself. For example, in 'The Old Man and the Sea', the sea is both the source of the fisherman's livelihood and a great adversary.