Tackle shops prepare to re-open

FISHING’S gradual emergence from lockdown received another boost after tackle shops were given the thumbs-up to get back to business from June 15 – the day before the new river season begins!

Many outlets were facing an uncertain future after struggling to keep their tills ringing over the past two months, with only online sales or limited click-and-collect services to fall back on.

But following the latest announcement by Downing Street, shops will now be allowed to open fully in six days’ time, provided safety measures are implemented.

At Frames Tackle in London, which has been in business for 60 years, preparations for the restart are already underway.

“We’ve put lots of precautions in place to keep staff and customers safe, including the installation of hand sanitisers at the entrance, a one-way system for visitors to follow, and floor markers to maintain social distancing,” says boss David Frame.
“I’m expecting an extremely busy period, and the news is a massive boost that the industry needed.”

Similar precautions have been taken at Chiltern Tackle & Bait, Northants, where boss Andy Pell tells Angling Times:

“We began offering a click-and-collect service from the middle of May and sales went through the roof overnight. It’s going to go up another notch once we fully re-open!”