CHANGING PERCEPTIONS OF FISHING AS A CAREER PATH FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Changing perceptions of fishing as a career path for young people.

By Phil Haslam, Managing Director, North Atlantic Fishing Company

The UK’s commercial fishing industry is vital to coastal economies and food production, yet recruitment is in decline. In the last 30 years, fisher numbers have halved to around 10,000, and the average age has risen to 55.

Many view fishing as inaccessible or are unaware of the career opportunities it offers. Research we commissioned shows that over three‑quarters of people have never considered a career in fishing, and fewer than 1 in 10 recalls never being introduced to such options at school. Encouragingly, younger respondents (aged 16–34) showed greater openness - suggesting an opportunity to reshape perceptions and reinvigorate the workforce.

Modern fishing is a dynamic, technology‑driven, and forward-looking sector offering varied, skilled careers both at sea and ashore. The industry provides a unique opportunity to engage a new generation to help to deliver responsible fishing within environmental limits.

The economic and societal value of sustainable fishing

Commercial fishing remains one of the UK’s unsung yet essential industries. It underpins the prosperity of coastal communities, supports thousands of livelihoods across catching, processing and supply chains, and plays a vital role in national and global food security. By providing a sustainable source of protein and sustaining local economies, the sector contributes far more to British life than is often recognised.

Globally, fisheries and aquaculture employ tens of millions of people and support hundreds of millions more through related economies – a reminder that responsible stewardship of marine resources is central to both ecological balance and human wellbeing.

Yet despite these strengths, the full scope of opportunities in modern fishing often goes unnoticed. Bridging this gap between economic importance and public understanding is key to attracting new talent.

Overcoming stereotypes

Stereotypes within the maritime sector continue to deter young entrants. Our research echoes these concerns – revealing that many people still associate fishing with physically demanding or unsafe work, and that awareness of modern career options remains limited.

Supporting data from Seafish (2023) shows the average age of UK maritime employees has risen to 44, four years older than in 2021, while deckhands average 37. Without renewed efforts to attract new entrants, the workforce will continue to age.

Long‑held perceptions about gender and working conditions discourage those who view the industry as suited only to the young or male, obscuring the reality of a sector now defined by professionalism, technology, and high safety standards.

Challenging these outdated images and promoting visible progress in safety, sustainability, and innovation are essential to reshape perceptions and build a more diverse, future‑ready workforce.

New skills for a changing industry

While 55% of our survey respondents associate fishing mainly with crew‑based work, few recognise the breadth of modern roles. Today’s fleets rely on marine engineers, biologists, logistics specialists, data analysts, and technical managers.

Emerging technologies, from robotics and automation to drones and virtual‑reality training, are transforming vessel operations, boosting efficiency and safety, and reducing environmental impacts. The future of fishing lies in combining traditional seamanship with digital and environmental expertise.

Industry entry routes

Attracting and retaining young talent means making career paths clear and accessible. Apprenticeships and cadetships run by Maritime UK, Trinity House, North Atlantic Fishing Company and other providers deliver structured training and sea time. At the same time, academic pathways through colleges such as Blackpool and Fylde Nautical Campus combine study with practical experience.

Partnerships between businesses, schools, and colleges are already making a difference. Programmes like cadet sponsorships and technical apprenticeships provide hands‑on learning and recognised qualifications, connecting education directly with employment. Early exposure through school outreach and skills networks helps young people see the breadth of on‑ and offshore opportunities across the seafood supply chain.

Casting it forward

Rising interest from younger entrants offers a valuable chance to secure the future workforce. To convert that enthusiasm into lasting careers, industry and educators must collaborate on clear entry routes, promote modern training, and highlight the advances in technology, safety, and sustainability already shaping the sector.

By closing the knowledge gap through outreach and education, we can show that commercial fishing offers purpose, progress, and long‑term opportunity, and that it is a forward‑looking industry at the heart of Britain’s blue economy.

Image: Pixabay