5,000 new recruits in boost to angling

More than 5,000 people have been introduced to angling for the first time through this year’s National Fishing Month (NFM)scheme. 

Held between July 26 and September 1, the Angling Trades Association-run project encouraged the public to have a go at fishing across hundreds of events in the UK.

During NFM’s most recent showcase event at The Game Fair at Hatfield House, Herts, coaching teams from the Professional Anglers Association and the Game Angling Instructors Association gave free coaching sessions to hundreds of youngsters and adults. 

For many first-time anglers there were unforgettable moments as they caught carp and pike on the lake.

River Monsters star Jeremy Wade joined the PAA coaches on the day to offer his support. He said: “National Fishing Month is a great way for people to learn the angling basics and appreciate the outdoors. 

“By introducing newcomers
to the sport, you pass on a gift that stays with them throughout their lives.”

Clubs also took advantage of NFM to get more people fishing. 

Organisers at South Cerney AC, Goldsworth Park AC, Firtree Fishery, Barford Lakes and Gipping Valley AC all helped to give first-catch memories to Scout groups, specialist schools, vulnerable youngsters and adults. 

The results across the six-week programme were encouraging to ATA officials, who were quick to thank the many organisations which made NFM 2019 possible. 

John Loftus, chairman of the Angling Trades Association, said: “We owe a debt of gratitude to the enthusiastic, loyal support of the voluntary organisers and coaches who plan and deliver the events every year.  

“It’s down to their hard work that so many people are introduced to angling, and they are the ones who help build initiatives like NFM to recruit the next generation of anglers. 

“Our thanks go to Angling Direct for its financial support, to Dinsmores and Fladen for their product donations, and to the Environment Agency for its fishing licence waivers.

“I’m encouraged with the results from this year’s events, but I know that we have an even greater opportunity to grow these events in the future.”