Brian Chambers is a single-handed, 8th generation fisherman, fishing for crab and lobster from Annalong Harbour, Northern Ireland.
“As an 8th generation fisherman, going into the profession was never much of a choice,” shared Brian. “It was always a passion of mine, I was always out during the summer holidays as a kid with my dad. It is a rare opportunity to make a living doing something you love.”
“After school, I applied to study Marine Engineering at Plymouth University, but backed out at the last minute to follow the call of the sea. My brother and I built my vessel, the Girl Beth, in 1990 with the help of a few local tradesmen from a fibreglass hull. We first launched it on the 13th June 1990 – I can still remember the exact date!”
“I have three daughters and a son, all who have come out with me over the summer. It is rare in many jobs that your kids can actually come to see what you do. Understanding the fishing industry has instilled in them a good work ethic and discipline, my kids value hard work and they all appreciate the sea and nature. Seeing the sunrise come up everyday and dolphins playing alongside the boat – you get a buzz no matter how many times you have seen them. Every day is different – it is a special way of life.”
“In 2023, I took on a new challenge as CEO of The Anglo-Northern Ireland Fish Producers Organisation (ANIFPO). Sustainability has always been a passion of mine; my father was a founding member of the North Eastern Lobster Co-Op (NELCO), a forerunner in introducing lobster v-notching to the British Isles.”
“Safety is also hugely important to me having lost my cousin at sea. He worked on a small under 10m crabber, similar to my own boat, and that has driven my passion to enhance safety at sea. You hear so many stories about MOB but not all the near misses.”
“You can’t risk getting complacent – always keep your deck clear and tidy, and be careful shooting pots. You don’t get a second chance. I say it to my kids when I’m out, and again the next day. I don’t mind repeating it. Accidents happen suddenly and you don’t have time to react the way you would want to. It’s better doing it right from the off.”
Alongside sustainability and safety, Brian is also advocating for better quality of life at sea. He is busy preparing to launch a social welfare review this spring. Find out more about ANIFPO and sister organisation Sea Source here.