One week left to nominate in the Fishing News Awards 2021

With just over a week to go to nominate outstanding representatives of the fishing community, now is the time to ensure you get your nominations in for the Fishing News Awards 2021.

Conscious of the importance of giving the industry some respite from the continuing challenges everyone is experiencing as a result of the Covid pandemic and the Brexit trade deal, and wanting to recognise and celebrate the many and varied achievements of fishermen throughout the UK and Ireland over the past difficult year, the Fishing News Awards 2021 will build on the success of last year’s virtual format. The winners will be announced at 7pm on 17 June, ensuring that people from all over the country can take part in recognising the collective achievements of the industry.

Categories for the Fishing News Awards 2021 range from Demersal, Pelagic, Shellfish, U10, Trainee and Young Fisherman of the Year, to Demersal, Pelagic and Shellfish New Boat of the Year, to Independent Fresh Fish Retailer of the Year and Processor of the Year. There’s also the chance to vote for your favourite fishing port, product and service company in the awards. Click here to find the full list of categories.

Have you spotted an outstanding innovation or achievement towards improving sustainability? Our Sustainability Award, sponsored by The Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust, rewards a unique and innovative response to a clear and compelling environmental sustainability issue within the UK or Irish fishing industries.

Last year, this was awarded to Odyssey Innovation in Newquay. “Having lived in Cornwall my whole life, I’ve come to recognise and respect the indispensable relationship between the fishing industry and the quality of life here, and how integral it has been to our culture, history and county pride,” said Odyssey Innovation founder and managing director Rob Thompson. “It is my privilege to receive this award as recognition for the notable role my company has played in helping our fishing community continue to be sustainable custodians of the sea, and for it to be at the forefront of the international plastic recycling circular economy story.”

Also included in the categories is the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by the Scottish White Fish Producers’ Association, which is given to an individual who, throughout their career, has been a true champion of UK or Irish commercial fishing. Last year’s winner was Sam Lambourn from Newlyn, who said: “I am both surprised and delighted to receive this award, and it is a special honour to have been nominated by those I have worked with for more than 30 years.”

It’s now time to nominate the people, companies, boats, ports and products that you felt proved outstanding during the tough year that was 2020. Click here to make your voice heard and find out more.

Nominations close on 26 March – click here to nominate now!