UK’s biggest ever youth fly fishing event set for Sunday
Over 50 experienced fly fishers from the east midlands will be wading and sailing into Rutland Water this Sunday (22nd July) to coach budding young fishers as part of the Rutland Water Fly Fishers (RWFF) Youth Development Programme.
The youth fishing day, which is supported by the Environment Agency, Angling Trust and Anglian Water, has been fully booked for weeks with 85 keen fishers coming to learn how to fly fish – making this the largest event of its kind ever in the UK.
Chris Evans, RWFF Junior Coordinator, said: “Fly fishing is a great way to get youngsters out into picturesque parts of the country, such as Rutland Water, and learning about the natural environment.
“As experienced fishers we want to do what we can to help increase the number of young people participating in fly fishing at Rutland Water and all across our region. Events like the youth fly fishing day will help to encourage more young people to take up the sport and enjoy the great outdoors.”
The youth day comes in the same week that the RWFF became the first Game Angling Club in the east midlands region to be awarded Clubmark accreditation. This certificate recognises clubs which provide the perfect environment for young people to get involved in sport across England.
Chris continued: “Achieving Clubmark status is an important step to meeting our future goal and is testament to ongoing work the club is doing to develop and grow.”
Kevin Appleton, Visitor Operations Manger for Anglian Water, said: “As an avid fly fisher it is fantastic to see so many young people coming to Rutland Water to take part in the youth day and learn to fish.
“Although the youth day this weekend is fully booked, we’d encourage visitors to get out and enjoy the stunning surroundings of one of the premier venues for fly fishing in Europe. Visitors to the water park can book onto beginners coaching sessions throughout the fishing season by visiting the Anglian Water website.”