If the figures are correct it means that over a million women worldwide flyfish, and it does seem that flyfishing is the most attractive branch of angling for women. There have been many theories about the reason for this, the American version being that:
‘It takes place in the most gorgeous outdoor settings, to the endless challenge of mastering the technique, to the art and grace of casting itself – who cares whether you catch anything or not – and the Zen-like relaxation of the sport. These challenges may be the same reason men enjoy the sport, but perhaps it is especially meaningful to overstressed women juggling careers and families. Flyfishing isn’t about strength; it’s about speed. This is a sport women feel they can master.’
I reckon it’s much more simple than that: any other branch of angling, other than lure fishing, involves handling wriggling creatures like worms and maggots.
