Fishing skills taught by Angling Society

Amy Atkinson fishing

The Angling Society invited people to learn how to fish with free taster sessions being held today (Sunday 25 August). Children were invited to Lock 53, Bridge 65c to try fishing and learn about how to fish.

Secretary of The Angling Society, Barry Hargreaves said: “We do these things to try and promote fishing and canal fishing because it has died a death recently.

"It’s good for the kids as well because they get out and get some fresh air and some vitamin D.”

Up to 20 participants took part in the session today.

Treasurer of the society, Jim Ridley said: “We had a session last week with about 20 people and we have a competition next week. Everyone involved will get a 4m whip and the winner will win a Shimano rod and reel.”

The competition will be held at Lock 60, Boarshaw Bridge and is open to children aged between 6 and 18 years old.

Barry added: “In all of the years we have done these things, we have never had any trouble with the children. They are all polite, well behaved and listen to everything you say.”

Jim added: “We welcome people of all ages and ethnicities and we do a lot of work with disabled children in the community. The youngest we have had here today was two-years-old.”

Six-year-old Amy Atkinson was at the session fishing with her dad and granddad. She said: “I caught my first fish today and I’m having fun. I’m beating my dad because he hasn’t caught any yet.”