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IT IS a fact that junior anglers are the future of our sport but they are often ignored.
Charitable Organisations like Get Hooked on Fishing and the Angling Trust work with partners such as the Environment Agency, the Angling Development Board and central and local government to promote the value of angling for young people.
I was introduced to angling by a friend of the family and pestered my parents for days on a loch or a pier but it was through organised trips and competitions, though, that I picked up skills and a broader knowledge of the sport.
Youth teams such as the Scottish Fly Fishers are regular attendees at angling events helping to raise funds and awareness of the competitive side of the sport.
Shimano take an active role with the Scotland Junior Sea Angling Team, providing sponsorship as well as hosting training evenings for the team in preparation for the events.
I spoke to George Cunningham, boss of UK tackle company TronixFishing, which is the major sponsor with the world governing body for sea match angling.
At the heart of the sponsorship package is an agreement to help the sea angling stars of the future.
The company subsidises the entry costs for junior and youth international teams to compete at World Champs events.
Tronixpro is known for its dedication to investing in the future of sea angling, making it an accessible sport for all, leading the way in popularising LRF fishing as well as usual shore tactics right up to international competitions.
George said it’s a win-win situation, adding: “Not only do we gain exposure at the most prestigious sea angling competitions on the planet but we also get to invest in youth angling, where help is most important and needed.”
Big brands, fisheries and tackle shops all play their part offering sponsorship and support.
Since this column started, the Daiwa Fish of the Week competition has regularly featured young anglers.
It’s been great to see so many youngsters out catching their first fish and particularly showing up the teacher by catching the best ones – and I look forward to seeing more this year.
You can contact the SFSA, SFCA, SANACC and GHoF on their websites.