Matt Scoffham and pals intend to get all the way to Italy, with the aim of boosting the funds of Macmillan Cancer Support and angling charity Fishing the Mind.
Any angler who’s driven across Europe to fish will know the big distances involved, but how many of us could make it by catching a pound of fish for every mile? That’s the task faced by Matt Scoffham, as he looks to catch carp everywhere from Northern England to Central France in a bid to raise £10,000 for good causes.
“It’s not a forgone conclusion!” said Matt, whose Rod Race to Parco challenge kicked off on August 11 with a special launch party at Hurlston Hall Fishery, which he manages.
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“I’m a touch apprehensive about getting 150lb on the first leg,” he told us, “but if we manage to get to Essex successfully we should be all right. Mind you, only carp count – so if we get a 100lb catfish in France, that’s not a lot of help!”
Besides poundage of carp, the mission is being driven by generous support, including that of wingman Leigh Garfield, drivers and the angling public. In response, Matt has pledged to change his middle name to ‘Carpy’ if he succeeds.
“I’m not joking!” he laughed. “If we can do this I really will become ‘Matt Carpy Scoffham’!
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Two great causes will benefit from the epic journey. Having lost his mum to cancer in 2019, Matt wanted to do her proud by donating to Macmillan. Equally close to his heart, though, is the emerging Liverpool charity Fishing the Mind, which is doing great work to improve men’s mental health.
“Fishing has made such a huge difference to my own mental health,” Matt told Angling Times.
“It saved my life, so I was keen to give something back. The more support we get, the more people we can help!”
MATT’S EPIC JOURNEY
1. On your marks!
The challenge starts at Hurlston Hall Fishery, on Merseyside.
2. First stop
With Makins Fishery 150 miles away, our lads will need 150lb to get there!
3. Last cast before France!
Plenty of pounds from Essex’s Churchgate Fishery will get them safely across the Channel.
4. Vive la carpe!
Pegasus Lakes in Central France is a key stop, targeting big fish for a big mileage.
5. The Italian Job
The finish line is premier Italian big-carp venue, Parco Del Brenta.
Pledge your support at www.rodracetoparcocharity.co.uk, donate at www.gofundme.com and be sure to follow #rodracetoparco on Instagram and Facebook for updates!