Spotlight on Women in Seafood: A Journey with Ashley Mullenger

Ashley Mullenger, Digital Comms Support, UK Women in Fisheries & Independent Fisherman welcomes you to the third issue of Fish Focus spotlight on Women in Seafood. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable women at the forefront of the seafood industry.

A Connection to the Sea

Though I didn’t grow up in a fishing family, the moment I stepped aboard my first boat, I knew I was destined for a life at sea. My voyage into commercial fishing began in 2008, serving as crew on a charter angling vessel from Wells-next-the-Sea, where I was responsible for customer care, safety, and much more.

A Journey of Growth

Over the years, I transitioned into commercial potting work and ultimately became the proud owner of my own 8m vessel, Saoirse. Now, I fish for crab, lobster, and whelks along the North Norfolk coast. I have chronicled this journey, filled with its monumental highs and devastating lows, in my memoir, ‘My Fishing Life – A Story of the Sea’. In it, I explore my experiences as a woman in this challenging sector and dissect the decades of fishing legislation that have shaped our industry.

The Double-Edged Sword of Empowerment

Being a woman in the fishing industry is both empowering and exhausting. There exists a subtle pressure to prove oneself—not only to others but also to oneself. While I embrace hard work, there’s a distinct line between physical strain and the emotional effort involved in being one of the few women in a traditionally male-dominated field. However, I have encountered incredible generosity, humor, and a gritty camaraderie that characterize life at sea.

Progress Through Visibility

What is gradually changing is the visibility of women in this industry. Despite having always played crucial roles—on boats, in processing units, logistics, and on the quayside—women are finally starting to gain recognition. I proudly contribute to the UK Women in Fisheries network, which uplifts and connects women across various aspects of the sector. We belong here, whether in processing, science, sales, management, or fishing itself.

Championing Future Generations

I believe it’s our responsibility to pave the way for those who come after us. I actively support and advocate for other women in the field. My social media presence, under the handle @thefemalefisherman, emphasizes the importance of visibility—not just for young women and girls, but for the fishing community as a whole. If I can inspire even one young woman to pursue this life, I’ll consider my efforts worthwhile.

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Fisherwomen

To any woman contemplating a career at sea, my advice is straightforward: Don’t wait for permission. The sea won’t provide you with a neatly drawn map; you must chart your own course. Learn as much as possible, ask questions—even those that seem trivial—and surround yourself with people who believe in you. You are stronger than you realize, and the industry needs your unique perspective, strength, and voice.

The Future of Fishing

Looking ahead, I aim to fish sustainably, foster conversations about small-scale fisheries, and ensure that women’s contributions are recognized not only in seafood’s history but also in its future. This life is not always easy, but it is honest, raw, and real—and for me, that is enough.