Paying Tribute: Meet Phil Trebilcock

Tribute is all about the people that make it. And for us, that’s Cornish folk. It’s what makes it unique – the spirit of independence.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be celebrating the best of Cornish people and putting a spotlight on the hands that hold on to their passions. First up is fisherman, Phil Trebilcock. A well-known character in his hometown of Newquay, Phil has been catching shellfish for 50 years and takes great pride in selling his quality produce to everyone from local punters to Michelin star chefs.

We caught up with Phil on his boat, the Loyal Partner, to find out more about his time in Cornwall and life at sea.

How long have you been in Cornwall?

I’ve been in Cornwall all my life – 68 years. My family has three generations in the rowing club and four generations in the Newquay lifeboat.

How long have you been fishing?

I’ve been fishing full-time since 1970, and I fish mainly for crabs and lobsters. I have got some good memories of fishing. I had a nice haul of bass in 1984 and I’ve caught a lot of Cornish king crabs in my time as well. One of my favourite things after having a long day out here is to go ashore, have a pasty and wash it down with a fine pint of Tribute.

Can you describe the independence of Cornwall’s communities?

Some people say Cornish people have their own way of talking and carrying on, but I’ve got to say in general they’re a nice lot of people here in Cornwall. Wherever you go you’re going to find something different, obviously, but I don’t really want to go anywhere else.

What do you love most about living in Cornwall? 

The best thing I like about living in Cornwall is you meet a lot of people, even the visitors who come here every year, they enjoy the scenery in Cornwall; places like Cadgwith and Sennen, people really come to see these fishing coves and speak to the local people.