Young fishermen in Cornwall have set up a new network to support the next generation – the first of its kind in the UK.

The Young Fisherman Network aims to encourage new entrants into the industry and champion career progression for existing commercial fishermen under the age of 40.

Around 60 people attended the network’s inaugural event at a net loft in Porthleven Harbour this month.

Falmouth Packet: The event took place at a net loft in Porthleven earlier this month The event took place at a net loft in Porthleven earlier this month (Image: The Young Fisherman Network)

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 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.”

Falmouth Packet: The fishermen took part in activities workshops such as mending and rope work The fishermen took part in activities workshops such as mending and rope work (Image: The Young Fisherman Network)

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.

Falmouth Packet: Attendee's also had the opportunity to take part in cooking workshops in Attendee's also had the opportunity to take part in cooking workshops in (Image: The Young Fisherman Network)

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.”

For more information about the network follow @theyoungfishermennetwork on Instagram.