Over 200 guests attended the gala presentation evening for the Fishing News Awards 2025 to celebrate the achievements of people, companies and organisations across the UK and Irish fishing industry…
The only event dedicated to recognising achievement, innovation and success across the UK and Irish commercial fishing industry, this year’s Fishing News Awards crowned winners in 11 categories.
The gala awards evening on 7 May was the culmination of a five-month process that started with the opening of nominations back in December, then moving through the shortlisting, voting and judging stages, alongside the organisation of the event itself – and none of it would have been possible without the enthusiasm and support of our readers, sponsors and colleagues from across the industry.
This year’s awards saw a wide range of nominations from across the British Isles, making the job of whittling down the many worthy contenders to our shortlisted finalists even more of a challenge. We again saw a record number of votes in our seven open categories, with many candidates drawing an impressive level of support, and some very close-fought contests.
The remaining four categories were judged by expert industry panels. The Boat of the Year categories were decided by a panel drawn from across the world of naval architecture, safety certification and engineering, chaired by SFF safety officer Derek Cardno. Independent panels, including marine scientists as well as fishing industry representatives, also judged the Sustainability and Lifetime Achievement awards. We’re very grateful to all of our judges for contributing their time and expertise, which makes these awards even more prestigious.
Fishing industry celebrations are always tempered by memories of those whom we have lost. We were therefore very pleased to once again welcome the Fishermen’s Mission as our charity partner. Our table collection will help to support the unstinting work of the Mission in support of fishermen and their families the length and breadth of the country.
We were also delighted to welcome back the Fishing Industry Safety Group as our safety partner at this year’s awards, giving us the opportunity to highlight its invaluable work to prevent future tragedies at sea.
Our grateful thanks go to everyone who helped to make this year’s awards possible, and particularly to our sponsors: the Fishing Industry Safety Group, the Marine Stewardship Council, Peterhead Port Authority, the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, the Scottish White Fish Producers’ Association, Seafish, Seafood Scotland and Sunderland Marine.
We’re also grateful for the additional support once again provided to our young finalists by Sunderland Marine and Fishing into the Future, which enabled many of them to attend the awards evening.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to make nominations and place votes in this year’s awards, and to all of our shortlisted candidates for taking part. Our congratulations go to all of this year’s winners
– and also to the many very deserving runners-up.
The Fishing News Awards celebrate all aspects of an industry that draws its strength from the collective achievements of its many parts – fishermen, boatbuilders, service companies, ports, processors, retailers and more. Despite all the pressures on the industry, these awards are a reminder of the many people doing great work, and all the reasons to be positive about the future.
The winners for this year were…
OVER-10M FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
Winner: Jack Grieve
(Shortlisted finalists: Chaz Curtis | Ian Hurford | Jordan Kay)
Having been shortlisted for Young Fisherman of the Year in 2024, Jack Grieve’s win in the Over 10m Fisherman category in 2025 underscores his remarkable dedication to the industry.
“It was a cracking night, but winning the award made it all the better – and getting to spend the evening with some of my closest friends and family. I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me,” he told FN.
Jack’s unique journey into vessel ownership began at just 11, when he used to accompany his grandfather to Eyemouth harbour, sparking the passion that has become his career.
His entrepreneurial spirit was evident when he acquired Janreen LH 144 for a token £1 in 2020. During the challenging Covid period, he undertook an extensive restoration, transforming a near-decommissioned vessel into a successful prawn boat. Despite significant setbacks, including an eight-month delay for a prop shaft replacement, Jack’s determination never wavered.
“I’m not doing anything special – I’m just doing the job I love, but it’s been nice to tell the story of my unique approach to becoming a boat owner, skipper, and trying to build a business I can take pride in.
Not many can say they put a boat back to sea for £1!” Jack said. He is now successfully operating the Janreen with a crew of two.
Sponsor: Peterhead Port Authority
Stephen Paterson, chief financial officer of PPA, said: “Peterhead Port Authority was delighted to renew our sponsorship of the Over 10m Fisherman of the Year category for the 2025 Fishing News awards.
“There are many individuals who devote their time and energy to contribute to making the fishing industry the success that we can all share, and a few of those were recognised with a nomination. It is important for the industry to take time to reflect on the achievements of the past year, and plan for a bright and sustainable future.
“It was an evening of good company, good food, networking opportunities and entertainment which was greatly enjoyed, and we are already looking forward to the next occasion.”
UNDER-10M FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
Winner: Leon Emmett
(Shortlisted finalists: Charlie Hill | Jon Hayes)
Eighteen-year-old Leon Emmett’s passion for the fishing industry shone through as he was named Under 10m Fisherman of the Year. “When my name was called out, I was shocked, excited and amazed all at once!” he told FN, clearly moved by the recognition.
Growing up in Newquay and introduced to the profession by his father Joe, a lifelong fisherman, Leon’s dedication is evident. He started his journey on his father’s boat before taking the helm of his own 7.3m vessel, Celtic Breeze.
Leon already demonstrates remarkable versatility, engaging in lobster potting during the summer, and line fishing and netting for red mullet in the autumn, alongside mackerel fishing. Beyond his work at sea, Leon contributes to the family business, Newquay Fish, using social media to connect directly with local customers alongside traditional sales to restaurants and markets. This blend of time-honoured practices with modern approaches highlights his innovative spirit and commitment to the industry’s future.
“I felt overwhelmed that so many people had taken the time to vote for me,” Leon said, adding: “Congratulations to all the winners, but a special well done to the Young Fishermen Network – I see first-hand the awesome job they’re doing.”
YOUNG FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
Winner: Darren Clark
(Shortlisted finalists: Erin MacKenzie | John McLeman | Scott Thores)
Darren Clark’s journey from a 12-year-old fishing creels on the Isle of Mull to a successful skipper and boat owner at just 28 is testament to the drive and dedication that saw him voted Young Fisherman of the Year. “It was a magic night to experience – I enjoyed every minute of it!” he told FN.
Moving to Oban, Darren’s ambition saw him skipper the Kyrene UL 144, diligently saving to purchase his own vessel, Islander BA 316. This pivotal step led to further expansion, including full-time trawling with the Girl Jean and the addition of the Kyrene 2 and the Radiance to his growing fleet. Today, Darren manages four boats and provides employment for 11 people – a remarkable achievement in just four years.
His operations now encompass both creel fishing and trawling, demonstrating his versatile approach. “It was a good feeling when my name was called out – years of hard work getting acknowledged,” Darren said.
Sponsor: Seafish
Neil McAleese, Seafish head of industry workforce issues, said: “We’re proud to continue sponsoring this award, which shines a light on the energy, skill and commitment of the next generation in UK seafood.
“Darren’s talent and leadership are a brilliant example of the future of the industry in action. A big well done to all of this year’s finalists — and to everyone helping to make fishing a rewarding, resilient and sustainable career.”
INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR
Winner: Young Fishermen Network
(Shortlisted finalists: James Milne | C Aware | Women in Fisheries)
The Young Fishermen Network, hosted by the Cornish Fish Producers’ Organisation, has swiftly established itself as a crucial support system for the future of the fishing industry, earning it this year’s Initiative of the Year award.
“We had such a great evening, and are super proud for our work to recruit and retain young talent within the fishing industry to be recognised,” said Matilda Phillips, co-ordinator of the network.
Launched in April 2024, it provides a platform for young fishermen to connect, learn and advance their skills through social training events, in collaboration with Seafish, and has also cultivated a strong online presence, offering a glimpse into the realities of life at sea. Based in Newlyn, the network has already attracted around 70 members in Cornwall and garnered a significant online following.
Its proactive outreach efforts, including attending school career fairs and organising quayside events, demonstrate its commitment to inspiring the next generation and fostering a vibrant future for the industry. “We had such an awesome evening, meeting members of the network from Scotland for the first time, and connecting so well with them over the three-course seafood supper,” added Will Jaycock, a network representative from Looe.
TRAINEE FISHERMAN OF THE YEAR
Winner: Brooke Lamond
(Shortlisted finalists: Jack Gauld | Archie Aughton | Gregor Smith)
Brooke Lamond, a determined 20-year-old, said she was genuinely surprised and deeply grateful to receive the Trainee Fisherman of the Year award. “It was a total shock! I didn’t expect to have the amount of support that I did, so I’m very thankful,” she told FN.
Inspired by her father Kenny, a fisherman of over 40 years, Brooke’s connection to the sea began during her childhood aboard the family boat. After a period working in tourism, she returned to commercial fishing, joining the 9m creel boat Kayvari OB 24. Despite initial doubts due to her petite stature, Brooke quickly impressed with her strong work ethic. Specialising in lobster and prawn fishing, she finds particular joy in observing marine life.
Brooke said: “We all had a lovely night, and it was definitely one to remember! I met so many people from the industry, including Ashley Mullenger who was lovely and incredibly supportive.”
Sponsor: Sunderland Marine
Craig McBurnie, head of Sunderland Marine, said: “Sunderland Marine is proud to once again sponsor the Trainee Fisherman of the Year category.
Supporting this award reflects our longstanding commitment to the future of the fishing industry and the incredible individuals who shape it.
“It’s a privilege to recognise and celebrate the achievements of young people like Brooke Lamond, whose passion and resilience set an inspiring example for the next generation of fishermen.”
Sunderland Marine underwriter Holly Rowley added: “It was an honour to present the award to Brooke, whose story is nothing short of remarkable. Her dedication, determination and strength are truly inspiring. Brooke is a fantastic ambassador for the future of fishing, and it was a pleasure to see her hard work recognised at the awards.”
FISH AND CHIP SHOP OF THE YEAR
Winner: The Codfather, Buckie
(Shortlisted finalists: The Dolphin Café, Peterhead | Town Fish and Chips, Burgess Hill | Sblash, Aberdaron | Rockfish, Whitehills | The Galley, Annalong)
This new category set out to celebrate the minority of fish and chip shops who continue to make the effort to source UK-caught fish.
Fish and chips was not rationed in wartime, showing the importance of locally supplied food to the security of the UK – and worth celebrating at the Fishing News Awards that took place on the eve of the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
In the face of ever greater reliance on imported fillets, the six finalists showed that it is still possible to generate a dedicated local following from customers appreciating the efforts made to source locally caught fish.
Winner Jason Stewart of The Codfather, Buckie, told FN: “It was an absolutely astounding night. I got to meet a lot of new people in the industry, which is always a good thing. I’m glad that the chip shop is being recognised – as it should be.
“All in all, it was a great night.”
Sponsor: Seafood Scotland
Matthew Hurst, Seafood Scotland’s head of trade marketing – the US, said: “Seafood Scotland was delighted to sponsor the Fish and Chip Shop of the Year category at this year’s Fishing News Awards, a celebration of excellence in one of the most cherished parts of our seafood sector.
“As an organisation committed to promoting Scottish seafood at home and abroad, we recognise the vital role fish and chip shops play in bringing top-quality, responsibly sourced seafood to communities across the UK. These businesses are often the first touchpoint for consumers and serve as proud ambassadors for our industry.
“It was an honour to support this award and spotlight the passion, skill and dedication that define the very best in the trade. Congratulations to all the finalists and especially to this year’s winner for setting such a high standard.”
THE SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
Winner: Fishing into the Future
(Shortlisted finalists: Coverless trawl selectivity in Nephrops fishery | Isle of Man fisheries co-management | Ocean Recovery Project/Milspeed net recycling)
“What a brilliant evening! We are still on a high after picking up the Sustainability Award for our F-REP events,” said Emma Plotnek, executive director of Fishing into the Future (FITF), celebrating the recognition of their impactful work.
The groundbreaking charity’s Fisheries Resource Education Programme (F-REP) has been lauded for its innovative approach, bringing together fishermen, scientists and managers for residential workshops where fishermen’s voices are prioritised.
“It was a great night – winning an award and also having chats with people to help us figure out where to take the F-REPs next,” Emma told FN, emphasising the collaborative spirit of the charity’s work.
FITF’s core mission is to empower fishermen to actively participate in the decision- making processes that shape the future of the fisheries and marine environment they depend on. “Lots of our trustees were at the awards,” said Emma, “and they are really who get us where we are today. Our trustees are two-thirds fishermen and industry people – and without their support we’d be nothing.”
Sponsor: The Marine Stewardship Council
Lisa Bennett, senior fisheries outreach manager at MSC UK and Ireland, said: “We were proud to once again sponsor this year’s Fishing News Awards, and were delighted to judge and present the Sustainability Award on the night. It was great to be back in Aberdeen, celebrating the passion, innovation and hard work that drives UK and Irish fisheries forward.
“A big congratulations to Fishing into the Future for winning what was an incredibly competitive category with their Fisheries Resource Education Programme initiative. The calibre of entries this year made the judging process a real challenge – a clear sign of the inspiring sustainability work happening across the fishing industry. A big thanks to all of our amazing judges this year: Kara Brydson, Bryce Stewart, Magnus Johnson, Hannah Fennell and David Warwick.
“Well done to all the winners and nominees, and thank you to Fishing News for another brilliant evening!”
SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR
Winner: Karl Thomsen
(Shortlisted finalists: Russell Pawley | Everard Insurance Brokers)
Karl Thomsen, a master rigger with nearly five decades of experience, has been a stalwart supporter of the UK and Irish fishing fleets, making his win in the Service Provider of the Year category particularly meaningful. “Having been brought up in the fishing industry, everyone looked forward to Fishing News coming out each Friday, so it is a huge honour for my business to win this prestigious award,” Karl said, emphasising the significance of the accolade in his company’s 40th year.
Owner of a family-established rigging business in Buckie in North East Scotland, Karl has dedicated his career to supplying wire rope to fishing vessels, continuing a family legacy rooted in maritime tradition.
Inspired by his father, a Danish fisherman, Karl’s commitment to the industry runs deep. “The recognition received already is absolutely massive. I’m very proud of ‘Team Thomsen’ and how it has evolved over the years so that we have been able to maintain our very high standards, service, and of course great values to the proud fishing industry,” Karl told FN.
OVER-15M BOAT OF THE YEAR
Winner: Forever Faithful PD 289
Owner: Andrew West | Builder: Macduff Shipyards
(Shortlisted finalists: Eternal Promise FR 36 | Admiral Blake PH 440 | Antarctic LK 145)
The three judges for this award were unanimous in their verdict that Forever Faithful deserved the plaudits for 2025. With blind scoring on a range of criteria including innovation, crew comfort, safety, build quality, fuel consumption and care of the catch, it was the first two in particular that saw Forever Faithful pull clear of the other finalists.
“Build quality across the new builds in the fleet is now uniformly high,” the judges said, “but with Forever Faithful, we saw Andrew West really pull out the stops with pushing the design of this class of vessel.
“The innovative bagging arm provides much more space aboard, and the design allows the gear to be hauled and shot without any crew on the stern. “The accommodation in the vessel is completely separate from the working part of the boat, providing a real feeling of comfort for the crew.
“This and other innovations makes this vessel, we feel, one that has reset the bar for vessels of this class.”
UNDER-15M BOAT OF THE YEAR
Winner: Olja CN 52
Owner: Chaz Curtis | Builder: G Smyth Boats
(Shortlisted finalists: Guiding Star LK 170 | Keila K 121 | Áine ME 15 | Two Davids LT 2312)
Gerry Smyth has achieved two in a row with the prawn creeler Olja CN 52, built for Chaz Curtis to fish in all weathers across the coast of the West Highlands.
“As expected, the general fit-out of this vessel was superb,” the judges said. “The accommodation for a vessel of this size is outstanding, and clearly designed to make life as comfortable as possible at sea. In addition, this is a case of investing in the market, with the aim of maintaining absolute catch quality for live Scottish langoustine. The pressure washer onboard was an extra tweak to save the crew time and effort bringing gear ashore for cleaning.”
However, another vessel in the category provided extremely strong competition, leading to the first ever split decision from the judges. “In some ways,” FN was told, “we were comparing very different vessels, and confirming a winner was extremely hard. This has given us real food for thought about how we approach judging in 2026, but also highlights the innovation and quality we are seeing across UK builders now, with ‘big boat’ standards being applied even to vessels as small as 7m.”
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Winner: Adrian Bartlett
Adrian Bartlett’s multifaceted contributions to the UK fishing industry have earned him the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award – a recognition that initially left him in disbelief. “It was a total shock that I won it, being so young! It took a while for it to sink in, and my other half Sarah had to kind of force me out of my chair! It’s a massive honour to walk in the previous winners’ shoes,” he told FN.
Starting his fishing career in the mid-1980s, Adrian spent three decades at sea, primarily crabbing in the English Channel. After stepping ashore in 2011, he channelled his passion and knowledge into promoting UK seafood.
Co-founding The Really Interesting Crab Company, he recognised a need to educate chefs about the quality of local shellfish. This led to the creation of Crabstock Festival, a unique inland seafood event aimed at highlighting the health benefits and economic importance of UK shellfish. His innovative Crab Stock & 2 Smoking Lobsters pop-up restaurant further showcases the best of UK catches.
Adrian also dedicates his time and expertise to numerous organisations. He serves as vice chair of Fishing into the Future, teaches catering students at Cornwall College, trains future fishermen with Western Marine Training, and is a director of the Plymouth Fishing and Seafood Association.
“The award has my name on it, but really it’s for the industry as a whole,” Adrian said, emphasising his lifelong commitment to the sector.
Sponsor: Scottish White Fish Producers’ Association
Mike Park, chief executive of the SWFPA, said: “The Fishing News Awards, which is to all intents the marine BAFTAs, showed once again the depth of young talent, entrepreneurship and relentless commitment within the UK seafood sector.
“As an industry, we have never been very good at putting on display all that is good about a career in the fishing industry, but that seems to be changing with so many young and dedicated emerging ambassadors. It is also very rewarding to see those that have been instrumental in delivering change and development rewarded for their selfless commitment. All that is good about fishing as a career was on display that night.”
Guests’ generosity raises £2,228 for Fishermen’s Mission
Our charity partner for the awards evening was once again the Fishermen’s Mission, in recognition of the invaluable work they do around our coasts.
At the end of the evening, table donations were counted up, and the grand total of £2,228 was presented to Marc Evans, chief executive of the Mission.
Marc Evans was then asked to draw the names of the winners in the evening’s raffle. The prize of a night’s accommodation and breakfast for two, generously donated by The Chester Hotel, was won by Melanie Scott, while a bottle of Ardbeg was won by Stephen Paterson.
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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