2-May-2006 - You have
heard plenty about it … but the push to get more
women into angling has begun!
The number of females going
fishing is a pitiful five per cent of the UK angling
population. That figure led to the Environment
Agency including women of all ages in the latest
recruitment drive.
Part of a new wave of projects
has seen the Environment Agency in Devon teaming
up with South West Lakes Trust to offer free fly
fishing coaching sessions for women at Kennick
Reservoir, near Christow.
The women-only open day on Saturday
May 6th, is part of the ongoing Angling Participation
Project, which has already introduced many newcomers
to the sport.
A similar event last year attracted
around 40 women aspiring anglers and resulted
in a permanent womens group being set which meets
monthly for fishing and fly tying sessions. Other
events held last year at Kennick reservoir in
the picturesque Teign Valley, were also very popular
with many of those attending taking up fishing
as a result.
'Women anglers can sometimes
feel intimidated by the jargon used and technical
nature of casting but this is designed to show
that they are just as capable as male anglers
and that fishing is a relaxing, healthy pastime,'
said Diane Holland, from the Environment Agency.
'Free expert tuition will be
available from trained game angling coaches –
both male and female. There will also be advice
on how to set up fishing tackle, safety aspects
and fly tying displays with the opportunity to
have a go at catching a fish,' added Diane Holland.
All equipment will be provided
and there is no need for an Environment Agency
Rod Licence as the event will be covered by a
temporary licence. For those anglers with disabilities
who may not be able to fish from the bank, South
West Lakes Trust have a wheelyboat available.
Anyone wishing to use this facility will be accompanied
by a trained angling coach.
Although this event is primarily
aimed at women anglers, further all inclusive
events are taking place at Kennick throughout
the summer:
