You may have wondered what National Fishing Month is all about. Or why
every year during July and August, there is so much talk about angling?
Two famous faces who know why fishing is one of the most popular sports
and hobbies in the UK are author and TV presenter of River Monsters,
Jeremy Wade, and TV presenter and keen angler, Nick Hancock.
Jeremy commented: “The National Fishing Month (NFM) campaign 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.”
Best known for hosting BBC’s They Think It’s All Over and Room 101, Nick Hancock will be hosting the new-look Fishing Theatre at The Game Fair this summer where National Fishing Month will be launched.
Nick said: “I am really looking forward to meeting and interviewing some amazing anglers in the new Fishing Theatre and seeing all that this historic event has to offer the country sports community.”
With over 250 events spread across the UK between 27th July and the 2nd September 2018, scheduled specifically to target the school summer holidays, there are plenty of spaces for families to book, get out on the bank and have a great day out together.
It doesn’t matter what age you start fishing. Children can take part on
equal terms with their grandparents. You can fish alone, with friends
and family or in an organised group for an hour or two or for a whole
day – you have the freedom to choose. Angling is fun, all the family
can take part and research shows that fishing can be good for you,
providing outdoor exercise activity and mental wellness.
The Angling Trades Association created NFM 26 years ago and financially
contributes to the running of the participation initiative. Over the
last 26 years, members of the trade association have donated hundreds of
thousands of pounds worth of tackle to organisers and coaches to help
run the events and supplied loads of ‘goodies’ and prizes to be given
away to the people taking part. This year’s headline sponsors include
manufacturers Daiwa, Pure Fishing and Leeda, with retailers Fishing
Republic, Fosters of Birmingham and Angling Direct providing donations
and logistical support.
In support of the participation programmes to get more people fishing,
the Environment Agency gives a percentage of the money raised from
fishing licences back into these programmes like NFM. The Angling Trust
supports NFM through its team of Regional Officers and its fishery, club
and coaching membership, who are all encouraged to take part in and
support local events.
The Professional Anglers Association, Game Angling Instructors
Association and Angling Cymru support angling coaches across the UK.
They promote NFM by organising and supporting a large number of local
events across England and Wales.
Why not enjoy yourself this summer, get outdoors and get healthy? Take
part in a National Fishing Month registered event and follow thousands
of young people, parents, grandparents and friends who enjoy quality
family time together at the waterside over the holiday period. Book your
place at an event now at www.nationalfishingmonth.com.
All children under the age of 16 can now enjoy a free fishing licence to
fish in still waters, rivers and streams. Just visit
www.gov.uk/fishing-licences/buy-a-fishing-licence
National Fishing Month 2018 runs between 27th July and 2nd September.