fishing village

For the first time in some years, angling is taking centre stage at The Game Fair. The new and improved Fishing Village will be positioned opposite Gunmakers’ Row at the heart of the site, boasting two casting pools, a picturesque area on the River Lea and fishing lodges hosted by top firms.

Meet the experts, with demonstrations from Charles Jardine, Hywel, Yasmin and Tanya Morgan and Scott Mackenzie. If you are in the market for a rod, try before you buy at the dedicated casting pool.

Overlooking the casting pools, eight fishing lodges will recreate the look of the French fishing lodge being given away over the weekend. Hosted by Orvis, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation, the Angling Trust and destination angling companies, pick a rod and find the right flies with the help of the experts, while the fly-tying area will help you master the art. Antique tackle expert Victor Bonutto will showcase a range of artefacts, including a salmon fly box used by Edward VII, and will be on hand to offer valuations.

Or head down to The Broadwater on the River Lea for fishing demonstrations, tuition and competitions. The British Fly Casting Club will be running daily casting competitions and National Fishing Month will host an extensive have-a-go and tuition area.