It would perhaps be poetic and probably comforting for some readers to say, that like many, I was born into fishing.
Yet, unlike some, especially the ‘old school’ brought up within a family who were experts in their own right, I actually wasn’t.
Although I had experienced some fishing from a very early age, on a serious note and actually getting out onto the bank given any chance I could, my understanding did actually come much later on.
For some, ideally inspired as a youth, particularly when experiencing a mentor’s success upon a day’s fishing from a very young age, one would of course be very much suited to grasping ‘just’ what it’s all about when moving on to a different level very early on.
READ MORE: Angling: Double celebration for Gareth Charnock
Possibly then joining and fishing within a club or even the open circuit from an early age.
It’s a thought this week that’s come to mind as news was released within St Helens AA that they have welcomed to their ranks, the re-introduction of a junior section to the association’s proud folder.
As many readers may well recall, several months ago I expressed my admiration of the work of Paul Lucas and his team that described their work at the Moathouse Angling Academy based in St Helens.
Describing the fantastic work the team have done to support juniors of all ages getting involved in angling, it was after some long discussion, that the inspiration that Paul has been able to offer here to the youngsters upon Merseyside as a Level 2 angling coach, he has now accepted a role which will run alongside his current project.
Paul will be now offering the juniors of St Helens AA his wealth of experience and guidance.
It’s certainly great news for young anglers upon St Helens and across Merseyside as the association looks forward to promoting junior events for 2023 upon some of their many club waters.
For more information visit sthelensangling.co.uk.
On the bank this week, something else came to my attention that has also inspired me to reflect just what our wonderful pastime can bring to people’s lives.
As an angler who simply enjoys many disciplines within the sport, Jonny Spencer from Hesketh Bank was personally inspired to share his experience in life, here by way of holding a charity event towards expressing his gratitude to Alder Hey Hospital.
Currently a member of the Prince Albert, Liverpool & District AA and Ribbledale AA, where he has participated within his interest of fly Fishing for the past six years, Jonny, recognising that anglers within our region had no opportunity to learn the art of fly tying anywhere locally, he simply had to act.
With this, on Saturday being supported by Mere Beck Fly Fishery based in Holmeswood who kindly offered their support, Jonny held a successful charity event within the cabin facilities upon the grounds of this superb venue.
With visitors accessing the fly tying course that Jonny offered, £137.50 was raised on the day, being donated to the hospital, with a grand total of £630 to date.
Well done Jonny.
