Fishing fanatics will get a chance to show off their skills at an angling and canoeing event in Burton this weekend. On Saturday, August 19, the Canal and River Trust will be hosting Let's Fish! in Stretton, an event which will give attendees the opportunity to explore local canals and rivers as well as trying their hand at fishing.
The event, which runs throughout the summer, comes as part of a nationwide campaign to encourage families to visit their local waterways and experience fishing for the first time.
Throughout the summer, the charity, which cares for 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales, is offering a series of free fishing events up and down the country. Attendees at the events will learn a new skill while they spend time with their family and friends and hopefully get 'hooked' on fishing and spending time at their local waterway.
According to research conducted by the Canal and River Trust as part of its Share the Space, Drop your Pace campaign, half of Brits will go out of their way to find quieter and greener areas to escape the hustle and bustle of their busy lives.
The charity believes that fishing is surprisingly easy to learn and the concentration involved can be great for people’s mental wellbeing, and can also be known to benefit people with learning difficulties.
The Canal and River Trust is inviting people to learn how to fish and appreciate how fishing can clear the mind, as it’s a great way to unwind and concentrate on nature.
Let’s Fish! runs during National Fishing Month, which takes place until September 3, and comprises nine pre-bookable events. All attendees, young and old, will be taught the basics of fishing by a professional coach and get the opportunity to learn about the huge variety of fish found in canals and rivers.
Many of the events will also include taster canoe sessions where people can get onto the water and experience first hand the fun that can be had paddling along the canal.
John Ellis, national fisheries and angling manager for the Canal and River Trust, said: "Canals are fun places to explore. They provide a place for both nature and people to thrive – including your little ones!
"Our waterways are home to literally millions of fish with around 40 different species. There's nothing quite like fishing for helping you slow down and get in touch with nature. We hope these free taster sessions will get more people, young and old, hooked on their local canal or river.
"Fishing is a universal sport: anyone can do it, at any time. It can be enjoyed throughout the year, on a warm summer’s day or a crisp winters morning by the water. It can provide an escape from the pressures of everyday life and a way to relax and unwind while re-connecting with your natural surroundings."
The event will take place on Saturday, August 19, from 10am to 4pm. Anyone interested should meet the group in Hillfield Lane, Stretton.
More details are available at www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/lets-fish
