SWFPO recently hosted a successful Deckhand Discovery Day at Brixham Quay, giving attendees a hands-on introduction to the fishing industry and the many careers that support it, both at sea and onshore.
The event welcomed a wide range of attendees, including Year 10+ students, school leavers, career changers, and those simply interested in learning more about the marine sector and hands-on outdoor careers.
Throughout the morning, participants took part in guided tours of the seafood market, gaining insight into how catch moves from boat to buyer and seeing first-hand the wider supply chain that supports the industry.
Attendees also had the opportunity to step aboard working fishing vessels to experience how modern fishing boats operate and what day-to-day life at sea is really like. Skilled skippers and crew members spoke about their experiences in the industry, sharing real stories, answering questions, and offering advice on starting a career at sea.
The day included introductions to common fishing gear — including trawls, pots, nets and lines — alongside discussions around equipment maintenance, safety, and keeping gear functional and sea-ready.
As well as highlighting life at sea, the event showcased the many shore-based careers connected to the fishing industry. Attendees learned more about opportunities in seafood processing, engineering and maintenance, logistics and supply chain, seafood sustainability and science, harbour operations, and crew welfare, alongside the many other roles that help support the sector.
Information was also provided on training opportunities, qualifications and career pathways, helping attendees better understand the routes available into both offshore and onshore marine careers.
The event aimed to give people a realistic and engaging insight into the fishing industry as a hands-on, rewarding and essential sector, while encouraging attendees to explore career paths they may not previously have considered.
SWFPO would like to thank everyone who attended the event, as well as the skippers, crew members and industry representatives who gave their time to support the day and help showcase the opportunities available within the UK fishing industry.
Click here to watch a promotional video for the day, produced by Brixham Trawler Agents, and keep an eye out for more Deckhand Discovery Days taking place in the future!
