Angling can get through this

THIS WEEK the angling community has entered uncharted waters.

Until the Government-enforced the lockdown, we believed that fishing would fit very well with the social distancing rules, and that we were uniquely placed to carry on with our hobby, albeit after adhering to the safety guidelines.

That wasn’t to be, and although the Angling Trust is seeking clarification on whether fishing fits into the permitted ‘exercise activities’ bracket, the answer won’t be quick in coming, and for the foreseeable future the sport has been put on hold. It’s the correct – and only – thing to do if we, as a community, are to emerge unscathed later in the year.

As a result of the rapid changes that have been pressed on all of us, many people have suddenly found themselves with more time on their hands than they know what to do with. At Angling Times we’re only a week or so into working from home, yet cabin fever is already affecting some!

To help guide you through this testing period, from next week you’ll notice a change in your magazine to reflect the new environment we’re all (temporarily) living in. With catches and matches put on hold and venues padlocked, we’ll be going all out to keep you entertained with your weekly fishing fix. It will still be a celebration of all things angling, and we hope it proves to be the perfect companion to see you through this unprecedented period.

In the meantime, just remember: those fish aren’t going anywhere, and when you return to your favourite swim they’re going to be in great nick and hungrier than ever for your bait.