April 23rd, 2024
A new network aimed at connecting the next generation of fishermen has launched from Cornwall.
The first of its kind in the UK, the Young Fishermen Network has been set up by young fishermen to encourage new entrants into the industry and strengthen relationships with existing commercial fishermen under 40.
This month, around 60 people attended the network’s inaugural event at a net loft in Porthleven Harbour. Young fishermen from fishing ports across Cornwall came together for a day of skills workshops, sea shanties, and a seafood cooking competition.
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 brought together all corners of Cornwall. Getting to know one another and sharing skills and experiences are all main aims of the network, and we certainly achieved that.
I’m excited to see the network continue to grow as we develop our plans and increase awareness of how awesome a career fishing is.”
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 such 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.
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Cornwall is home to the most economically significant fishing fleet in England. (Seafish Fleet Enquiry Tool).
The Young Fishermen Network has been set up by the Youth Board of the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO).
The Young Fishermen Network is funded by the Fishmongers’ Company and the ROCC project.
