A new initiative that encourages kids to start fishing has got off to a flying start, with nearly 500 taking part in the first 12 months.
Somerset Youth Angling Club (SYAC), Summerhayes Juniors, and Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership (SASP) have collaborated with local fisheries to offer a range of opportunities for youngsters to try the sport.
Through holiday programmes, coaching sessions and junior matches have quickly become a welcome success story for grassroots fishing in the area.
“The impact has been quite incredible,” Gavin Davey of SYAC told us. “We’ve had parents travelling from Bath, Bristol and London to take part, and schools across Somerset have been eager to get involved."
"It’s shown that, with the right support, angling can be a powerful tool for confidence, wellbeing, and social inclusion — and that the appetite for youth angling is stronger than ever.”
“Our team has worked with local scout groups too, giving young people the chance to experience angling in a safe setting,” he added.
“Teachers and parents have been amazed by its impact, astonished to see children with ADHD or autism so calm, focussed, and engaged. Next year, our goal is to double the number of juniors taking part.”
