ACCORDING to Canal & River Trust the sales of junior rod licences has dropped by over a half during the past six years, so it has launched a campaign to attempt to reverse the decline.
It is organising free fishing events and giving 1,000 starter kits out to get youngsters interested in angling, that will run from July through to September to celebrate National Fishing Month.
Reserve free starter kit
‘Go Fish!' is being organised by the Trust together with local angling club partners to offer families a chance to try their hand at fishing and discover their local waterway. Attendees have the opportunity to reserve a free starter kit and receive guidance from a professional fishing coach.
A spokesman for the Trust tells us:
"Fishing has experienced a decline in numbers, especially among youngsters, as more and more young people turn to computers in their leisure time. In the past six years, sales of junior rod licences has dropped by over half. The Trust is keen to help reverse these figures and help communities get the most out of fishing and their local canal or river."
Millions of fish
John Ellis, National Fisheries & Angling Manager for the Canal & River Trust, explains:
"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."