It’s been a hectic few weeks since nominations closed for the 2025 Fishing News Awards, with the FN team assessing all of the nominees and drawing up a shortlist for each of the categories. The quality of
the nominations each year means that there are always difficult decisions to be made, with many more deserving candidates than we are able to shortlist.
We are delighted to now be able to reveal the shortlists for the categories in the 2025 awards that will be decided by a public vote. This year, seven categories will be decided by FN readers – so once you’ve read the shortlists, it’s over to you! Click here to place your vote for your favourite in each category.
The remaining four categories – Over-15m Boat of the Year, Under-15m Boat of the Year, the Sustainability Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award – will be decided by panels of judges drawn from across the fishing industry. The shortlists for those categories will be revealed in next week’s issue.
The winners will be announced at our gala awards ceremony at the Chester Hotel in Aberdeen on 7 May. Guests will be treated to a drinks reception, a gourmet seafood meal and entertainment from top comedian Ed Byrne, before are the winners are finally revealed.
Find out who made the shortlist below…
UNDER 10M FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
To be awarded to a UK- or Ireland-based fisherman in the under-10m sector who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the industry in 2024
Charlie Hill
Hailing from Cullen in Moray and fishing out of Portknockie, Charlie Hill says that his nomination left him ‘speechless’ – but his journey into fishing is testament to his lifelong passion for the sea. From childhood days spent exploring Cullen harbour to his subsequent career as a diesel mechanic and shipbuilder, Charlie’s connection to boats runs deep.
After a 25-year stint in the oil industry, Charlie returned to his true calling, purchasing a licensed creel boat in 2015 and developing an operation that combines supplying local hotels and exporting crab and lobster. He also targets mackerel during the summer, and is currently expanding into scallop fishing.
Built eight years ago, his vessel, Camann BF 160, a 6.9m Gerry Smyth GM7, is a source of pride. Charlie’s love for fishing is rooted in the freedom of being his own boss and the sheer joy of being at sea, he told FN. “I love being out fishing, I seriously enjoy it.
“I’ve always been about boats – and the office we’ve got looks across the Moray Firth, and I just love it!” What was intended as semi-retirement has become a full-time passion.
Jon Hayes
Jon Hayes’ nomination reflects a lifetime dedicated to the sea. Starting at just 16 in 1977, he has spent decades mastering inshore fishing around Cornwall, operating primarily from St Mawes and Falmouth.
His journey began as a fourth hand on a longliner, learning the ropes through hard work and perseverance. “We weren’t allowed in the wheelhouse – we just stayed on deck and worked, getting cold and sick and all the rest of it!” he recalled. Undeterred, at 17, he purchased his first boat, Whispering Winds, despite having no family background in fishing.
His passion, ignited during school holiday fishing trips, propelled him forward. His career extended beyond local waters, including a stint as a village fisheries advisor in the southwest Pacific in 1986.
Today, he focuses on potting, notably scallop potting, and is actively involved in developing innovative scallop pot designs with lights and improved entrances. Operating his 8m catamaran Trevally FH 2, he primarily fishes solo, undertaking day and occasional night trips. When asked what he loves about the job, Jon simply said: “There’s something that draws you… it’s just the love of the sea. It’s difficult to explain.”
His initial reaction to his nomination was one of disbelief. “Shocked! I’ve managed to scrape myself up off the floor.” His dedication to evolving techniques, particularly in scallop potting, showcases his innovative approach to sustainable fishing.
Leon Emmet
At just 18, Leon Emmet brings youthful energy and deep- rooted passion to the fishing industry, his excitement on hearing of his nomination reflecting his enthusiasm for his chosen career. Growing up in Newquay, he was introduced to fishing at a young age by his father Joe Emmet, a lifelong fisherman.
His journey began on his father’s 8m Cyclone, Phra Nang SS 66, where he learned the fundamentals of baiting and pot handling, gradually working his way up. Today, he works his own 7.3m vessel, Celtic Breeze PZ 557, targeting a range of species across the seasons. “I just enjoy the life, I enjoy the lifestyle,” he said.
His fishing methods include lobster potting in the summer, line fishing, and netting for red mullet in the autumn, alongside mackerel fishing.
Leon also contributes to the family business, Newquay Fish, which is owned by his father. They use social media to sell their fresh catch directly to local customers, supplementing sales to restaurants and markets. This integration of traditional fishing with modern sales techniques demonstrates Leon’s ability
to thrive in today’s fishing landscape.
OVER 10M FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
To be awarded to a UK- or Ireland-based demersal, pelagic or shellfish fisherman, working in the over-10m sector, who has made an outstanding contribution to the industry in 2024. Sponsored Peterhead Port Authority
Chaz Curtis
West coast fisherman Chaz Curtis’ journey to becoming a respected figure in the Scottish prawn creel sector began with an unconventional approach to his education. As a teenager, he’d regularly skip school to join local creel boats – despite battling severe seasickness that would leave him incapacitated. But his determination never wavered, with him even resorting to forging sick notes from his mother. “It got to the stage where the teacher didn’t even look at the note,” Chaz recalled.
His early days were spent learning the ropes from Douglas Rowland, eventually skippering Douglas’ boat Zolee CN 53 at just 16. After nearly two decades working with Douglas, Chaz took the helm, eventually commissioning his own state of the art 12m catamaran Olja CN 52 seven months ago. Working from Tayvallich, he focuses solely on prawn creeling.
His love for the sea is palpable. He told FN of the ‘thrill and excitement’ of the job, and the satisfaction of hauling creels at dawn, while others are still asleep. Despite the challenges facing today’s industry, his enthusiasm is undimmed. “If I’m going fishing, I am going fishing, and that is it,” he declared.
His nominator said: “Determination and hard work have paved the way for him to build a new vessel in the past year. He currently operates two over-10m prawn creel vessels, and is always thinking ahead to the future.”
Jack Grieve
Jack Grieve’s second nomination in the Fishing News Awards is testament to his remarkable dedication and resilience. Jack, who was shortlisted for Young Fisherman of the Year in 2024, has forged a unique path in the industry.
His journey began at the age of 11, accompanying his grandfather Alistair Grieve to Eyemouth harbour to collect prawns. This early exposure ignited a passion for the sea, despite no other family members being involved in fishing.
Jack’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through when he acquired the 11.9m Janreen LH 144 for just £1 in 2020. During the challenging Covid period, he embarked on a painstaking restoration, transforming a near-decommissioned vessel into a thriving prawn fishing boat. Janreen faced numerous setbacks, including an eight- month slipway ordeal to replace a bent prop shaft, but Jack persevered.
Now, operating with a crew of two, Jack says he enjoys the freedom of being his own boss ‘and the freedom you get from being out there’, setting his own schedule, and ‘just trying to do my best every day’.
Jordan Kay
Jordan Kay’s nomination recognises a lifetime dedicated to the sea. Beginning at just
12, his passion for fishing blossomed through his older friends, with no family tradition in the industry. He swiftly progressed, finding a home at Interfish for 15 years, and skippering the beam trawler Admiral Blake PH 440 for 12 of those, working out of Plymouth.
Jordan targets a diverse catch, including Dover sole, monkfish, cuttlefish and lemon sole. He thrives on the challenges of the profession, he told FN. “It’s just brilliant – it’s quite a unique way of life. I like the challenge of going out there and actually hunting for the fish and trying to be the best,” he explained.
Leading an eight-man crew, Jordan is now set to take command of the brand new 24m Interfish beamer Admiral Ramsay PH 220, which is set to launch in May.
“Jordan has worked his way up from the deck to be one of the best young skippers in the South West,” said his nominator. “Daily he increases the standards required, and is always striving to improve.
“For the amount Jordan has achieved in his short career, I feel he deserves the recognition.”
Ian Hurford
A lifelong Brixham fisherman, Ian Hurford’s journey into the industry began at a young age, assisting his father with sprat netting. After school, Ian broadened his experience, crewing on beam trawlers like the Angelina and the Philomena in the 1990s, targeting sole in areas including Liverpool Bay.
Ian’s career progressed to skippering the 14m Angelina from around 2000. Today, he skippers the 14.98m Waterdance twin-rig stern trawler Sophie Jayne of Ladram BM 271, working with a crew of three or four. His dedication and expertise have earned him high praise. His nominator told FN: “Best fisherman in Brixham, just ask around!”
He attributes his success to a deep love for the sea and the thrill of a good catch – and his work ethic and drive, inspired by the skilled fishermen he works alongside, are evident. “It’s very challenging,” he admitted to FN, “but there’s no better feeling than when you’ve had a successful day. There might be ups and downs, but there’s no feeling like when it all goes well – which it quite often does. That’s what we do it for, isn’t it?”
YOUNG FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
This category will recognise a fisherman under 30 years of age who has demonstrated outstanding skill, commitment and determination to succeed in the industry – Sponsored by Seafish
John McLeman
Aged just 20 and hailing from the Black Isle, John McLeman has already demonstrated remarkable dedication and passion for the industry. His journey began at a young age, joining his father on fishing trips at around nine or 10, and developing a serious commitment to the craft by 16.
Fishing primarily out of Peterhead, John works alongside his father Sandy McLeman on the 28m Rosebloom INS 353, often working in tandem with uncles Andrew and Donald McLeman on the Boy John INS 110.
This nomination follows his previous recognition as a Trainee Fisherman of the Year finalist in 2022. Asked about the latest nomination, John said: “I was surprised! I spoke to my family, and it wasn’t them!” He says his enthusiasm for fishing stems from its unique nature, and that he finds immense enjoyment in the challenges and rewards of life at sea.
One nominator said: “John is a very hardworking young individual.” While doing his mate’s ticket, ‘he was evidently working very hard every night and weekend to ensure he succeeded and passed – which he did’.
They added: “Even while doing so, he was at the boat every time it was in and working with gear, which shows his keenness – which can often be hard to come by with young men now.”
Darren’s passion stems from the unpredictable nature of the job, he says. “I love the thrill of what’s going to be in your net.”
His nomination describes him as ‘hardworking and determined’, noting that he ‘puts in the hours’ and that when things go wrong, he ‘carries on fighting, when most would give up’. “He started with one boat, and has managed to build his way to be where he is today.”
Another added: “He has proved his worthiness onboard the Rosebloom, can do absolutely anything with a net, maintain anything on the boat, take fuel, cook three times a day.
“This shows a keen individual who wants to make it in the industry – we need more Johns.”
Scott Thores
At just 17 years old, Scott Thores showcases remarkable skill and resilience. Starting in Peterhead net stores at 15, he prepared diligently for a life at sea. By 16, he had joined his father Scott and uncle James’ 36m Havfjord.
Currently, he works on the 27m Caprice R-13-ES, having previously gained experience on Harvester PD 98, Ocean Harvest PD 198 and Renown FR 246. “I love the good days and getting big hauls of fish and having a laugh with my crewmates,” Scott told FN.
His nominator said: “Scott Thores is a highly skilled and hardworking young fisherman who can do it all. He started working in net stores at just 15, preparing himself for life at sea. By the time he joined a boat at 16, he could already mend, splice and handle all net work fluently – something that is becoming rare these days.
“On top of that, he is a fast and efficient worker in the fishroom and has been trusted multiple times to take charge, which is impressive for someone so young.
“Scott has also faced one of the toughest situations any fisherman could go through – a fire onboard. He was rescued from a liferaft in a storm, yet just a month later, he was back to full-time fishing. That shows real determination, as many people would never return after something like that.
“At just 17, he is already earning a full share, which proves how capable he is. Any skipper who has had him onboard will say the same – he’s a valuable crew member who always puts in the work.”
Darren Clark
Darren Clark’s rapid ascent in the fishing industry is a story of ambition and hard work. Originating from the Isle of Mull, he began his fishing career at the age of 12, creel fishing for prawns and assisting trawlers at night.
Moving to Oban, Darren skippered the creeler Kyrene UL 144, saving diligently to purchase his own vessel, Islander BA 316. This marked a turning point, leading him to expand into full-time trawling with the acquisition of the Girl Jean LH 73. Darren’s entrepreneurial spirit continued to flourish, adding the creeler Kyrene 2 OB 20 and the 19m Radiance INS 240 to his growing fleet.
Today, at just 28, Darren manages four boats and employs 11 people – a remarkable expansion in a mere four years. His primary vessel Islander remains central to his operations. While his creel boat operates from Oban year-round, his trawlers, which work both single and twin rigs, move to the east coast during winter.
Darren’s passion stems from the unpredictable nature of the job, he says. “I love the thrill of what’s going to be in your net.”
His nomination describes him as ‘hardworking and determined’, noting that he ‘puts in the hours’ and that when things go wrong, he ‘carries on fighting, when most would give up’. “He started with one boat, and has managed to build his way to be where he is today.”
Erin MacKenzie
With fishing heritage coursing through her veins, 20-year-old Erin MacKenzie was born and raised in Mallaig, and follows in the footsteps of three generations before her.
Erin works from her hometown harbour on the 17.6m Caralisa OB 956, targeting prawns and sprats. Following her father Ewan and uncle Simon’s example, she has quickly established herself as a capable and dedicated young fisherman.
“I love being able to eat what you catch, plus all the things you get to see and witness when you’re out on the boat, that no other people get to see,” she told FN. When informed of her nomination, her response was characteristic of her grounded approach: “I just didn’t expect it!”
One nominator said: “A dedicated young woman – working very hard at the prawns on long trips, committed to furthering her career in the sector – and the youngest fisherman in Mallaig.”
Another added: “Erin always had a desire to go to sea, and has now attained that goal through dogged determination.
“She has persevered to learn the skills necessary to allow her to do this job, and maintains a high sense of awareness as regards safety onboard. Last year she participated in the Pride in the Seas project to encourage young people to join the industry, to continue the heritage of fishing and to keep the industry alive for future generations.”
TRAINEE FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
This award will recognise the most outstanding new entrant to complete a commercial fishing training course in 2024 – sponsored by Sunderland Marine
Gregor Smith
At just 17, Gregor Smith’s nomination highlights his promising start in the demanding world of commercial fishing. His passion for the sea runs deep, inspired by his grandfather Alexander Smith’s lifelong career as a fisherman.
Gregor began his journey in January last year, quickly adapting to the rigours of the job. He undertook the 12-week Scottish Maritime Academy Trainee Deckhand Course at North East Scotland College
in Peterhead and, said his nominator, ‘has excelled at sea since graduating the course’.
Gregor currently works on the 29m Audacious BF 83, skippered by David Gatt and Barry Reid, primarily fishing for whitefish out of Peterhead. His honest perspective on the job reflects the realities of life at sea. “It’s a love/hate relationship,” he admitted. “It’s good fun when you’re with a good crew. It’s good fishing when it’s good weather – and pretty bad when it’s not.”
Although modest about his nomination, it’s clear his dedication and work ethic are already making a positive impact, and that he takes pride in what he does. His willingness to embrace both the highs and lows of the profession demonstrates a strong foundation for a successful career.
Jack Gauld
A driven 17-year-old nearing his 18th birthday, Jack Gauld has quickly made his mark in the fishing industry. His straightforward approach and clear ambition shine through despite his relatively short time at sea. “Quite surprised!” was his reaction to the nomination – a testament to his grounded nature.
Jack began his fishing career just under a year ago, driven by a desire to try something new. He completed the Scottish Maritime Academy (SMA) 12-week Trainee Deckhand Course at North East Scotland College last year – and was named its 2024 Trainee Deckhand of the Year.
SMA centre manager Chris Bell told FN: “We are all very proud of Jack’s achievements. He kept his head down and worked hard during the 12-week course, and has continued to do the same in his career at sea so far – long may it continue.”
He now works aboard the 24m whitefish twin-rigger Benarkle PD 400, skippered by Mark Anderson, operating out of Peterhead, and has immersed himself in the practicalities of the job.
His passion for the sea is evident, and he has a clear vision for his future. “I want to try and get into the wheelhouse and become a skipper,” he said, outlining his goal to take command within the next decade. He also has the aspiration to own his own boat, demonstrating his long-term commitment to the industry.
Archie Aughton
Eighteen-year-old Archie Aughton, from Castletown on the Isle of Man, first went to sea at the age of 12, joining his uncle on lobster and crab potting trips. This early immersion in the world of fishing ignited a passion for the sea, leading him to join the 10m vessel Anzac RY 56, skippered by Cam Watterson, in October last year.
His nominator told FN: “Archie is a brilliant young fisherman. He is passionate about learning, and an honour to have on the team. He excels in everything he learns to do, and has a real passion for the future of the industry.”
Anzac operates primarily out of Douglas, targeting scallops and queenies, but we are told that Archie demonstrates remarkable adaptability, readily adjusting to any port on the Isle of Man depending on prevailing weather conditions.
On receiving news of his nomination, Archie said: “It felt good, but I was shocked!” His enthusiasm for fishing is evident, as he fondly refers to it as his ‘happy place’. He says he cherishes every facet of his work, from the early morning starts to the inherent challenges and rewards of life at sea.
Brooke Lamond
At just 20, Skye fisherman Brooke Lamond has already proven herself a rising star. Following in the footsteps of her father Kenny Lamond – who has fished for over 40 years despite physical disabilities – Brooke discovered her passion for fishing during childhood trips aboard the family vessel Sea Ranger BRD 632, which her grandfather George Lamond built.
After working in seasonal boat tourism in Elgol, Brooke returned to commercial fishing when crewmate James Robertson invited her aboard the 9m Kayvari OB 24 to try creel fishing. Despite scepticism about her 5ft 5in slim build, she quickly silenced doubters with her work ethic and determination.
“I’ve become a lot stronger in every way, mentally and physically,” Brooke told FN. “I feel proud of myself that I’m able to do what many call one of the hardest jobs, and I’ve proved to people that, even though looking at me you’d think there’s no way I could do this job, I’m actually able to do it.”
Fishing for lobsters and prawns, Brooke particularly enjoys lobster days for the opportunity to observe different marine species. She has established a seasonal rhythm – working tourism boats during summer and returning to commercial fishing in winter – while continuing to build her skills and knowledge of the sea.
“She has proven herself in a fishing community and turned many heads considering her physical stature,” said her nominator. “She truly encompasses what it means to be a fisherman, proving to herself and many others that she has what it takes.”
SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR
This category will recognise a UK or Irish company, person or organisation that has provided an outstanding service to the fishing industry in 2024
Karl Thomsen Marine Riggers
With nearly five decades of experience in marine rigging, Karl Thomsen stands as a cornerstone of support for fishing vessels across the UK and Ireland. The proprietor of a family-established business in Buckie in North East Scotland, Karl has been supplying steel wire ropes to fishing vessels for 40 years.
Born into a fishing family with a remarkable history, Karl’s connection to the maritime world runs deep. His father, a Danish fisherman who found refuge in the UK after the German occupation of Denmark in 1939, inspired his commitment to the industry. While Karl never became a fisherman himself, he has dedicated his professional life to supporting those who work at sea.
“We try to deliver most of our wires ourselves if we can,” Karl told FN, highlighting his hands-on approach and personal commitment to service. His company also offers comprehensive support, including wire installation and the responsible removal of end-of-life gear.
Nominated for ‘unbelievable service to the industry’, Karl Thomsen represents the gold standard of marine rigging. His nomination recognises not just a business, but a lifetime of unwavering support to the fishing industry.
Russell Pawley
Marine engineer Russell Pawley’s nomination stems from a career dedicated to the fishing industry – though his initial reaction on hearing of his nomination was disbelief.
Starting his career at sea in 1975, he progressed to skippering 30m vessels until the early 2000s, gaining invaluable first-hand experience.
Transitioning ashore, Russell then built on his marine engineering skills, eventually co-owning Penwith Marine. “Russell is one of the leading engineers in Cornwall and works on fishing vessels all over the South West, and is one of the most competent and trusted engineers in the area. There is nothing that Russell cannot tell you about any aspect of a fishing vessel,” said his nominator.
His commitment to keeping boats at sea is described as ‘legendary’, with his relentless work ethic and 24/7 availability earning him widespread admiration. “He will work weekends, night and day, to help the guys stay at sea. He is always there for advice over the phone, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said the nomination.
“I enjoy it – it’s been great. Yes, you do get the downsides – but I do love it,” he told FN, emphasising his enduring passion for his work.
His ability to troubleshoot any vessel issue has cemented his reputation as a ‘genius’ within the industry, the nominator added. While he sold Penwith Marine to Stephen and Michael Knowles seven years ago, he remains a vital part of the team.
Everard Insurance Brokers
With a company history going back to 19th-century barge construction, Everard Insurance Brokers has been one of the UK’s leading independent marine insurance brokers since 1969.
Brendon Ladner of the company’s fishing division expressed his delight at the nomination, saying: “It’s great to receive some recognition for the hard work we do. I know we’re an insurance company and people pay to use us, but we do go above and beyond when it comes to claims, advice and risk management.”
Operating from their Penzance base, with support from Plymouth and London offices, Everard’s four-person fishing team caters to a diverse range of marine insurance needs. Everard now insures approximately 13.5% of the UK and Irish fishing fleet – with, says the company, ‘the majority of business coming via word of mouth and referrals’.
“We pride ourselves on our customer service, ensuring that any claims are promptly sorted out,” says the company. It adds: “We know being a fisherman is a hard enough job in itself, so we try to take the pain out of having to deal with the murky waters of the insurance world for our clients.”
One nominator said: “Just a lovely firm to deal with, having used them for over five years, they are always flexible and friendly. Their close connection with the fishing industry means they understand if payments are little late and adapt the policies they offer in a realistic way. All in all, just a great service from a friendly team.”
INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR
This category will recognise an initiative that brought demonstrable benefit to the industry in 2024
Young Fishermen Network
The Young Fishermen Network, hosted by the Cornish Fish Producers’ Organisation, has rapidly become a vital force in supporting and promoting the next generation. Matilda Phillips, who runs the network, said she was ‘so excited’ to hear of its nomination, which recognises the network’s significant growth in its first year.
Launched in April 2024, the Young Fishermen Network provides a platform for young fishermen to connect, learn and develop their skills. It organises social training events, and creates engaging digital content to reach a wider audience.
“We work with Seafish to do a skills workshop at every event – so that might be net-mending, pot-mending or rope work – to progress the personal skills of the young fishermen, or those that are looking to get into the industry,” Matilda told FN.
The Young Fishermen Network has already held a range of events, including collaborations with Young Farmers’ Clubs, and maintains a strong online presence through social media, showcasing behind-the-scenes glimpses of life at sea. Based in Newlyn, it has attracted around 70 members in Cornwall and a growing online following of over 2,500.
The network also focuses on outreach, attending school careers fairs and organising quayside events to inspire young people to consider fishing. “By advocating fishing as a viable career and telling the story of seafood from the voices of young fishermen and fish processors, the network has enhanced the public’s perspective on fishing and educated followers,” it says.
C Aware
C Aware, a groundbreaking initiative by the Fishermen’s Mission in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, aims to transform cancer awareness within the North Shields fishing community. Recognising the unique needs of fishermen, C Aware has adopted a collaborative and community-centric approach. “Everything we’ve brought in has been in consultation with the fishermen,” the project’s Deb Johnstone emphasised, highlighting the programme’s commitment to tailoring its services.
Operating directly on the fish quay, C Aware offers weekly activities, including ‘talking groups’, pop-up information stalls and daily staff presence. It brings health partners to the quay to deliver targeted cancer awareness sessions and address specific concerns.
C Aware’s success is rooted in its adaptability and responsiveness, scheduling events around tide times and using fishermen and their family members as ‘cancer champions’ to disseminate information to ensure maximum engagement. It has also innovated with ‘Eat & Act’ social gatherings, combining healthy food with dietary education, and is working to increase the digital awareness of those at sea.
Addressing barriers to care, C Aware has partnered with hospitals to improve appointment reminders, and is advocating for systemic changes to accommodate fishermen’s unique schedules. With over 540 cancer conversations, 20 pop-up stalls, eight talking groups and seven awareness sessions in its first year, C Aware is demonstrably impactful. Its 2025 vision includes strengthening health partnerships, expanding its reach and sharing its model nationally.
James Milne
James Milne’s nomination celebrates his remarkable transition from commercial fisherman to dedicated youth mentor. Beginning his fishing career at 16 in Whitehills in 1978, James quickly advanced, earning his skipper’s ticket and owning three boats by 26. After decommissioning his last vessel in 2001 and spending a further 12 years working offshore, he intended to semi-retire, but instead found new purpose at a friend’s residential care home for disadvantaged children.
James now combines his fishing expertise with his passion for youth development, taking the children fishing on the Venture West, a commercially licensed vessel. He teaches them practical skills in lobster and mackerel fishing – his nomination describes him as ‘a serious lobster snapper’.
“What I like about it is taking the kids out and teaching them different skills and teaching them a work ethic,” James told FN. The children actively participate, hauling pots, handling catches, and even selling their mackerel at Fraserburgh fishmarket.
James said he finds immense satisfaction in witnessing their enthusiasm and growth. “Seeing their faces when we’re filling up a few boxes of mackerel – it’s priceless,” he says, highlighting the profound impact of his initiative. He’s not just teaching fishing; he’s providing valuable life lessons and fostering a sense of achievement in young lives.
Women in Fisheries
Despite operating with a limited six-month funding window since October 2024, Women in Fisheries has
made a remarkable impact. Spearheaded by network co-ordinator Stephanie Lucas and digital communications manager Ashley Mullenger, the team has launched a mentorship programme, a UK-wide member directory and a series of webinars featuring experts from various industries. It has also established a comprehensive training resource page, addressing critical needs like first aid and risk assessment.
Its dedication extends beyond service delivery; it champions fair pay and recognition for women in the industry, a mission solidified by its New Year’s resolution to advocate for appropriate compensation. “When your email came, it was this moment of: just pause and reflect and be like, wow, we’ve done great things,” Stephanie Lucas told FN.
The network’s open Zoom sessions provide invaluable support, fostering a community where women can seek advice and build confidence. “It is a fantastic initiative that brings together women working in all sectors of the fishing industry. There is a lot of support and networking,” said one nominator. Another said: “The Women in Fisheries network has seen significant growth in late 2024, offering free membership to women across the sector, focused on elevating the role of women across the industry and offering free networking, career building, mentorship and sharing of best practice among its members.”
FISH AND CHIP SHOP OF THE YEAR
This new award will recognise a UK or Irish fish and chip shop with a strong cvommitment to sourcing UK- or Irish-caught fish, serving up great food, excellent value and exemplary customer service – sponsored by Seafood Scotland
Dolphin Café, Peterhead
It may help that the Dolphin Café is situated close to Peterhead harbour, but the multiple nominations that owners Orest and Natalia Susak received concentrated on the quality of their fresh fish, rather than their location, and the friendliness of their service.
“The freshest of fish, as the shop sits right on the harbour a stone’s throw from the market. Fish fried to perfection in the traditional way, not in oil or palm oil, and always with a smile from every member of staff. Nowhere compares,” said one nomination.
It is not just their fish that is local – they estimate that 85% of the food they source comes from North East Scotland – but it is their fish, they told FN, that brings in the customers.
“We have customers come to us from everywhere. We have some regular customers who drive for two hours to come and have our fish and chips. We are really proud of what we’ve achieved so far,” they said.
The Galley, Annalong
As an ex-fisherman, Ryan Stevenson, who has been running the Galley Restaurant and Takeaway for five years, after a decade at sea, knows his fish. He is also committed to ensuring not only that customers get the best fresh fish available from the local fleet, but that this is sustainably certified.
“We purchase all our fish from trawlers that are part of the Responsible Fishing Scheme,” he told FN.
A similar ethos and care applies to the local ingredients he sources for the Galley, where no processed products are bought – and even the baked products he sells are made on site.
He keeps his fish range simple – cod and haddock, and locally caught fresh scampi, available breaded or battered. The restaurant will sometimes benefit from the crab and lobster landed by his own boat, Boy Ashton N 280, which lands down the coast in Kilkeel.
Although he sells other dishes, it’s his fresh fish, he said, that is the biggest draw for his customers. “People come from all over the county to us. We go through a colossal number of fish. It’s great to get through to the finals, and we are extremely grateful to the people who like our fish, and who nominated us,” he said.
Town Fish and Chips, Burgess Hill
Town Fish and Chips was nominated because ‘they take care to get the fish they serve cooked just right’. “The town is full of chip shops, but we go to the Town as their fish is the best.”
Owner Mr Dhanjal took some convincing that his nomination wasn’t a wind-up. “I’ve never heard of Fishing News, or the awards,” he told us.
He was, though, much more forthcoming about his fish – the bulk of which he buys as frozen- at-sea fillets caught by the Hull-registered Kirkella.
“I’ve been in the fish frying trade for 17 years, first in Littlehampton, then Brighton, and now in mid-Sussex. I always put the fish first – it’s what I prefer to sell. We sell haddock, cod, huss, plaice, calamari, cod roe, fish cakes, and now also we sell a lot of scampi. I make a point, too, of having plenty of fish choices on the kids’ menu.
“Cod and haddock are about equally popular, but people do like the choice we have. I have no idea about the boat my fish comes from, to be honest, but I do like the fact we use UK fish for UK traditional takeaways.”
Rockfish, Whitehills
Named after Rockall, where previous owner Billy Gatt caught much of his fish, Rockfish was taken over by Scott Robertson 16 months ago.
“Most of the fish we sell here is landed by the Audacious,” he said, “whether it’s fishing on the east or west coast. We source its fresh fish through Downies, a local supplier. We try and source all our ingredients locally, and sourcing fresh fish each day is a key part of what we offer our customers.
“Haddock is our main fish by a country mile, but in the summer we sell a lot of cod – as soon as you hear the tourists’ English accents, you know it will be cod. Our sit-down menu now sells quite a bit of lemon sole, and we have an offering that I think is unique to the Moray area, battered langoustine tails, which are becoming really popular, as well as smoked fish.
“Seventy-five percent
of our sit-in trade is for fish. Rockfish has a very fishy theme here, and we are proud to concentrate on supplying the best-quality fresh fish, and flying the flag, when so many UK supermarkets and chip shops are ignoring amazing Scottish fish and selling frozen imports.”
The Codfather, Buckie
Another ex-fisherman turned fish fryer is Jason Stewart, who started his career fishing for scallops on the Buckie- registered Kestrel, a job that over three years took him down the North Sea, working out of ports such as Grimsby.
“It turns out I am better at cooking fish, than catching them!” he said. “After another decade at sea, but in the merchant marine, I bought a mobile fish business, based around cooking the best local fish. One of the mobiles is based on Skye, where I worked for two years, before taking over the Buckie trailer, which provides fish to customers all over Moray, on different days of the week.
“It’s primarily fresh haddock we sell, all locally caught and sourced through Downies, our local fresh fish merchant, but we also sell monk tails, cod and scallops, and I like to put on other seafood specials as well. Our customers like the fact that we take fresh fish to them, and we take fresh deliveries daily.
“A key part of our popularity is with a lot of local fishing families – can I name the well-known local pelagic fisherman dressed as a panda outside the stall? He drummed up a lot of extra interest in the business!”
Sblash, Aberdaron
Sblash, which is to be found at the very end of the Llyn peninsula in North Wales, jutting out into the Irish Sea, is a real family business. As well as serving traditional fish and chips to locals and tourists alike, the takeaway and restaurant sells a variety of fresh fish and shellfish caught by Stephen Harrison, who owns one of a small fleet of local boats that beach- launch nearby, catching a wide array of species including bass, mackerel, crab and lobster, all of which make their way onto the menu.
Run by Stephen’s wife Natalie, Sblash has won a number of awards, and in the summer you can see long queues building up in the street outside.
“We once had a gentleman drive all the way from Blackpool and camp in the area to experience the deep-fried tails,” said Stephen. “Natalie doesn’t just use our crippled lobsters in the shop, she prepares crabcakes, and crab spring rolls from my catches, as well as the different fish I catch over the summer months.
“Even King Charles, in his former duty as HRH The Prince of Wales, has visited to try the lobster tails.”
This story was taken from the latest issue of Fishing News. For more up-to-date and in-depth reports on the UK and Irish commercial fishing sector, subscribe to Fishing News here or buy the latest single issue for just £3.50 here.
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