Do you know the country's top fisherman?

A national awards programme is looking for the UK’s foremost fishermen and the people of the South West are being asked to put forward their nominations. Designed to celebrate the hard work and dedication of all those within the fishing industry, the Fishing News Awards will see fishermen from across the UK and Ireland battle it out to be named the best in the British Isles in one of twelve categories.

Covering categories such as ‘Young Fisherman of the Year’, ‘Shellfish Fisherman of the Year’ and ‘The Fisherman’s Lifetime Achievement Award’, the awards are designed to give recognition to the men and women risking their lives to put food on our tables.

With the awards set to be in Aberdeen on 26 May 2016, nominations for the awards are currently open and free to enter, with people in the South West being urged to nominate their friends, family, crewmates or even themselves for one of the prestigious accolades. All nominations must be received by Friday 25 March 2016, where they will be assessed by a panel of industry peers, authorities and advisors. The shortlist will be confirmed in April.

David Linkie, the Editor of Fishing News, said: “The South West is such a key area for the fishing industry in this country, so it’s only right that fishermen operating out of Newlyn, Plymouth and Brixham are congratulated for their bravery and dedication. Fishing really is one of this country’s most challenging occupations, and I know just how hard these men and their families work to make sure we all end up with food on our plates.

“Fishing is a way of life, often continuing through the generations, but the daily risks that our fishermen face should never be underestimated. Knowing that they are providing the best quality fish and seafood, for which the South West is renowned, is reward in itself, but we feel that they deserve further recognition. This is precisely why Fishing News is hosting these awards; to celebrate the endeavour, determination and gritty commitment of those involved in the UK’s fishing industry over the past year.

“I’ve been a long-time supporter of the fishing industry in the UK and these awards are the perfect opportunity for fishermen from the South West to receive some recognition for their tireless work over the past year.”

Other categories at the awards include ‘Best New Boat, ‘Technical Innovation of the Year’ and specialised awards for fishermen depending on the particular fishing sector in which they work.

To see the full list of categories and enter a nomination for the Fishing News Awards, hopefuls can visit www.fishingnewsawards.co.uk and complete the online entry form. Head to Twitter and use the hashtag #FishingAwards to see the conversation and join in.