Fishing event angling to get more youngsters taking up hobby

A fly fishing event aimed at getting mothers to teach their children the art will be held in Perthshire this weekend.

The fundraising Hens and Bairns day will take place at Meikleour Fishings on the banks of the River Tay. It is open to mums and youngsters of eight years and older.

The event, tomorrow from 9am-1pm, will raise money for Angling for Youth Development (AFYD), a charity set up to encourage more young people to try fishing as a hobby and a healthy pastime.

Hens and Bairns will be hosted by keen fisher Claire Mercer Nairn, who has been campaigning to encourage more women into the traditionally male-dominated world of angling.

She said: “Being along a beautiful river is a wonderful bonding experience and learning with a familiar person is the best way to be introduced to fishing.

“The patient granddad teaching his grandson how to fish is the cliche that comes to mind.

“However, the majority of young people who would like to try don’t have a family member who fishes or has the skill and patience to teach.

“Coming with a family member, while being taught by a trained person, is a great way to gain confidence and kick start the love of fishing.”

There are limited spaces, so booking by contacting claire@ meikleour.com is essential.

Fishing equipment and life jackets will be provided, but participants are urged to bring their own wellie boots, waterproofs, hats and sunglasses.

The AFYD was formed in 2004 by two Glasgow police officers.