The Angling Trades Association’s two key initiatives – National Fishing Month and Take A Friend Fishing – kick off once again this summer at The Game Fair, beginning on Friday, July 26th.
With both events running until Sunday August 31st inclusive, there has never been a better time to introduce more people to the sport.
The ATA has also secured concessions for anglers and trade attending The Game Fair at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire from Friday to Sunday, July 26th to 28th. Rod licence holders can get 20 per cent discount off entry fees by quoting code EA25 at checkout.
While National Fishing Month will see hundreds of events taking place up and down the country, Take A Friend Fishing is a great opportunity for anglers to enjoy their favourite sport with a pal.
The summer holidays are a great time to unwind, be with friends and interact with the environment around us. Taking a friend or family member on a fishing trip is a great way to spend time outdoors. Escaping modern life to build friendships, create lasting memories and just enjoy some time next to the water, is the ultimate in relaxation.
Existing fishing licence holders can register for a FREE one-day fishing licence from the Environment Agency at www.takeafriendfishing.co.uk to take someone they know fishing.
The initiative is run by the Angling Trades Association and its members, in conjunction with the Environment Agency and supported by DEFRA, the Angling Trust and the Canal & River Trust, which will also be proving the have-a-go fishing on the lake at Ragley Hall during The Game Fair.
ATA chair Andrew Race said: “I am looking forward to the 2025 TAFF programme and the launch at The Game Fair. The Ragley venue is the perfect opportunity to come and see what angling is all about and to have a go for yourself and get advice on tactics and tackle.
“Take a Friend Fishing is making a difference, to the long-term development of angling recruitment. It makes angling accessible and enjoyable.”
Heidi Stone, Environment Agency Fisheries Partnerships Manager, added: “Fishing with family members or friends is a fantastic way to spend quality time together whilst also enjoying all that nature has to offer.
“Take a Friend Fishing is a brilliant campaign that allows anglers of all levels the ability to improve their skills or simply give fishing a try – and I’m proud to again be supporting this initiative that makes this great hobby more accessible for all.”
While John W Ellis, National Fisheries and Angling Manager at the Canal & River Trust, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside the Angling Trade Association to support the Take a Friend fishing initiative in 2025/6
“Our trust is responsible for looking after over 2000 miles of canal fishery and over 70 reservoirs. Over eight million people live within 1,000 metres of one of our fisheries and nearly 50 per cent of the population within five miles of one. We will be encouraging members of the 275 angling clubs who rent water from us to help their club grow membership by taking a friend fishing on our waters or participating via our Let’s Fish programme.”