'Young Fishermen Network' launches a UK first!

Great turn out of young Cornish fishermen - and encouraging to see

 the guys are not alone.

A new network has been created to support the next generation of fishermen - the first of its kind in the UK.

The Young Fishermen Network has been set up by young fishermen from Cornwall. It aims to encourage new entrants into the industry and champion career progression for existing commercial fishermen under 40. Around 60 people attended the network’s inaugural event at a net loft in Porthleven Harbour this month.

Network Coordinator, Matilda Phillips, aged 21, said: “The event was an incredible way to kick start the network and it was fantastic to see such enthusiasm in the room. From Looe to Newlyn, Cadgwith to Port Isaac, we bought together all corners of Cornwall. Strengthening fishing communities through social connection and sharing skills and experiences are part of the network’s objectives, which we certainly achieved on the day. I’m excited to see the network grow as we continue developing our plans and increasing awareness of how awesome a career fishing is.”

Hosted by the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation, the Young Fishermen Network is funded by the Fishmongers’ Company and the ROCC project.

Designed by the young fishermen themselves, the event started with workshops in net mending and rope work; led by David Warwick, the Gear Innovation Manager for Seafish and Freddie Bates, a Seafood Cornwall Training instructor.

Will Greenhalgh, aged 20, from Port Isaac, said: “I really enjoyed learning new skills and meeting like-minded young people from different fishing ports, especially as I come from a small port where there are not many young people interested in fishing.”

In the afternoon, professional chef Rupert Cooper from Philleigh Way Cookery School led the network’s first ‘Seafood Throwdown’ which saw fishermen roll up their sleeves and turn their catch into three spectacular dishes.

Mat Price, aged 18 from Cadgwith said: “My favourite part about the event was being surrounded by top lads with similar interests in a great location. I also enjoyed the seafood cook-off, it was lovely to learn new recipes that I will definitely be using next time I cook my catch.”

Are you a current young commercial fisherman? Are you interested in learning more about how to enter the industry? Head over to Instagram and follow @theyoungfishermennetwork, where you can find out more and get involved.