Canal & River Trust calls on families to have a go at fishing

A child fishing

The Canal & River Trust, the charity which cares for 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales, is encouraging families in the North Manchester area to visit their local waterway and have a go at fishing this summer.

The charity is inviting people to try fishing for free during an event led by Little Britain Angling Club, it’s part of a series of events the Trust is running in partnership with the Angling Trust at locations up and down the country. The sessions will encourage people to get outdoors and experience the peaceful family time available on their doorstep.

Visitors to the event 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. All tackle and bait as well as a rod license and fishing permit will be provided for free on the day meaning people can just book in and have a go.

Recent research commissioned by the Trust shows that simply spending time by the waterways can make you happier and improve your wellbeing. With ever increasing rates of obesity, diabetes and other debilitating conditions and rising levels of stress, anxiety and other mental health conditions in the UK, the Trust believes waterways are uniquely placed to make a significant contribution to improving the wellbeing of the millions of people who live within easy reach of one of its free-to-use canals or rivers.

John Ellis, national fisheries & angling manager for the Canal & River Trust, explained: “Fishing on your local canal or river is a great way of clearing your mind and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Many people may not realise that it’s also great exercise and that you can burn 500 calories in one morning’s fishing.

“Our free Lets Fish events are an opportunity for local people to learn a new skill, relax, and enjoy spending time together with family and friends. It’s surprisingly easy to learn and the concentration involved can be great for our mental wellbeing.

“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.”

Our waterways are home to millions of fish including around 40 different species. The Canal & River Trust is the single largest owner of coarse fishing rights in England and Wales with over 2,000 miles of waterways and over 40 feeder reservoirs. The fish in its waterways are worth an estimated £40 million.

The charity is inviting people to try fishing for free during an event taking place on Saturday 7 July on the Rochdale Canal near the Hopwood Arms in Middleton (753 Rochdale Road M24 2RA). Sessions are available between 10am and 4pm and can be booked at: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/lets-fish

To download a free fishing guide, visit:

http://www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/fish-guide