A teenage girl who won trainee fisherman of the year hopes to inspire more young women to work in the Scottish fishing industry.
Isla Gale quit school at 15 to work as an apprentice on a scallop fishing boat. Now 19, she has completed deck officer qualifications in the hopes of following her dreams to work on larger fishing vessels at sea.
The plucky teen is currently based in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire while studying at the Scottish Marine Academy (SMA). She hopes to see more women making waves in a male-dominated industry.
She said: “I know that there are many supposed barriers and superstitions about women working at sea, but if you are determined and hardworking enough to overcome that side of things, you’ll do really well.
“I have had plenty of people doubt me along the way and I’m more than happy to offer advice and information to young women who want to get into the fishing industry.
“You’ll never know if you don’t try! You could fall in love with it like I have.”
The teen is already making a name for herself, after scooping Trainee Fisherman of the Year at the Fishing Industry Awards in 2022.
She hopes to use her experience and knowledge to inspire others and has already been featured on platforms such as the BBC.
Isla praised the SMA in Peterhead for providing an education for those with a passion for fishing.
“The lecturers’ different seafaring backgrounds and teaching styles have helped me understand the subjects better,” she added.
“Once I earn my Class 2 Certificate of Competency, I aim to get a permanent berth on a larger scallop vessel within the Scottish fleet.”
But sea legs aren’t the only requirement as she warned fishing is a huge life commitment that takes you away from home, friends and family.
She added: “I absolutely love the industry.
“It is a big undertaking, especially if you’re away from your home, family and friends (and dog!). Although what I really miss while studying is being at sea. I miss the camaraderie of the fishing and I can’t wait to get back.”
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter