Angling event at Rothbury gets rookies hooked

Northumbrian Anglers Federation chairman Dr Mike Dodd and head bailiff Willie Farndale, with Federation president the Duke of Northumberland.

The first of two weekends of taster sessions aimed at getting you hooked on angling has proved a success.

Northumbrian Anglers Federation organised the events, giving those who have never fished before a free try at the sport, with an experienced angler by your side to give advice and show you how to cast. The first were held last weekend (Thursday, June 3, to Sunday, June 6) in Rothbury.

Dennis Hetherington, secretary of the Federation, said: “The sessions were a huge success, helped by some wonderful weather – 55 adults and 22 children attended the event and really enjoyed learning about the river, the fish in it and how to cast and fish.”

The Duke of Northumberland, who is president of the Federation, gave his support by attending on Friday.The final sessions, which last about two-and-a-half hours, will be held on Federation water at Rothbury from Friday, July 2, to Monday, July 5. There will be no charge.

The Duke of Northumberland talking to instructor Bob Smith and one of the participants of the 'try river fishing' event.

Fishing equipment will be provided and you will not need to buy a fishing licence or permit.

Contact Dennis if you would like to book a session or require further information on 07955 855 847 or email [email protected]

The project has been supported by an award from the Angling Improvement Fund, which reinvests a share of fishing licence income to improvement projects and activities at fisheries. The fund is administered by the Angling Trust and supported by the Environment Agency.

Other organisations involved in the scheme are Northumberland Rivers Trust, Greys Fishing, Natural England, Shakespeare Fishing and the Northumberland Estates.