Getting families hooked

There will be around 15 families, about 30 people, coming along each day. National Fishing Association coaches will be on hand at the waterside to teach the novice anglers different angling methods, tackle and bait and the rod licensing system. They will also have the chance to learn about the importance of fish care and welfare and fishing in the Hampshire area from Environment Agency Fisheries experts.

Fun2Fish has been running for the past two years and aims to introduce people of all ages and backgrounds to course fishing, teaching them the skills that are needed to go out and fish on their own. The project is supported and helped funded by the Environment Agency and Bournemouth Borough Council. Fun2Fish are also currently working with the Hampshire Youth Offending Team, Bournemouth Youth Inclusion Project (YIP), the Boscombe Youth Project, Poole Learning Support Team, Bournemouth Alternative Needs Federation (Bicknell School) and the Royal Variety Club.

Bob McMahon, Managing Director of Fun2Fish, said: “We live in a beautiful pat of the country that has some of the best fishing around. The aim of Fun2Fish is to introduce as many families and young adults as possible into angling and get out there to enjoy the local environment.”

Hannah Wright, Environment Agency Area Fisheries Project Officer, said: “This is an excellent day. Angling is a great pastime, but one that can be difficult to get to grips with on your own. I have met so many children who have tried their hand at fishing who don’t get another chance to try it again because they have no one to go with. This event is an excellent opportunity for the whole family to have a go.”

For more information about Fun2Fish visit: www.fun2fish.co.uk