14 October 2013



Throughout the summer the Angling Trust Sussex Marine Regional coaching sessions took place on the North Bank in Shoreham Port. The two coaching days were held to encourage young people into the sport of sea fishing. The coaching days turned out to be a huge success with over 40 young trainee anglers attending the sessions.
Despite the unfavourable weather, the young anglers showed great enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn. Thanks to additional tuition aboard the fishing boat ‘She Likes It II’ the group managed to catch a decent haul of mackerel on feathers, with a few coming home for dinner! For the second session a new group of budding anglers enjoyed developing their new skills in the sunshine, whilst proud parents watched their children collectively land seven different species of fish. The seven different species included Bass, Pollack, Wrasse, Goby, Smelt, Blenny and even a small Dab.
Angling Trust charter boat member and skipper of She Like’s It II, Mark Vale, said “I am very pleased to be involved with this event. I believe it is a great way to introduce and encourage people of all ages, but especially youngsters, to the world of angling. There are many benefits that can be derived from this great sport”.
Both days also saw young and adult anglers enjoy some beach casting practice with rods especially set up for that purpose. An area was fenced off on the North bank and a tennis ball was used as a casting weight with the intention of casting the ball directly into the landing nets set at different distances. This proved to be a very popular event during both days as it gave the user confidence in their ability to learn new skills.
Reg Phillips, Angling Trust Sussex Marine Region commented “The coaching sessions were a huge success for all involved. Thank you to Shoreham Port for their on-going support. The Angling Trust looks forward to organising more events on the North Bank, which proved a perfect location for the training”.
Julian Seaman, Harbour Master at Shoreham Port added “Congratulations to the Angling Trust for holding two extremely successful coaching sessions. As a trust port we were keen to support the Angling Trust and welcome young fishing enthusiasts from the local community to the Port. The Angling Trust does a fantastic job at encouraging interest in fishing and keeping the sport alive”.
For more information on the Angling Trust please visit www.anglingtrustsussexmarine.net.