At the beginning of August this year, Innovate Trust’s Participation Team started their accessible beginner’s fishing group, ‘Fish On!’. The project, led by team member Morgan Gohar, is part-funded by Heart Research UK Healthy Hearts Grant.
The group provides an excellent opportunity for the people we support to try fishing for the first time or to brush up on skills they may already have.
Starting accessible fishing sessions
[The group] is an opportunity for people to interact with nature. To learn about what types of fish, birds, insects and other animals inhabit our green and blue spaces, learn new skills, and gain confidence in those skills. It is also a chance for people to meet and make friends with others with similar interests.
When the idea of a Fishing group began, Lindsay Morgan, a member of our team in Rhondda Cynon Taf, mentioned that sponsors of her partner’s company would like to donate equipment to Innovate Trust.
Wychwood gifted rods, reels and various bits and pieces we needed to begin Fish On! This act of kindness meant that people could come along and try fishing for the first time without purchasing expensive equipment. Diolch!
Boosting confidence
Dan, a keen Fish On! participant, has gained a lot from being part of this group. Fish On! has greatly interested him and given him such a boost in confidence and positivity.
The idea of an accessible fishing group immediately sparked the interest of Dan, who told us he used to go fishing with his Dad but hadn’t been for several years. At first, he was a little unsure if he could remember what to do. Through practice and demonstration, he has regained his confidence and re-learnt his skill set.
I really enjoy being by the lake and having a chat. I like having lunch by the lakeside, looking at nature, and of course, catching some fish.
Developing old interests
As Dan’s interest has developed, he has been keen to learn about the different fishing methods. Dan asks many questions about different types of bait and what other fish species are in the lake. He has also shown to be conscientious about caring for fish when handling them during the unhooking process and how long fish can survive out of water.
Dan also showed significant consideration and respect for his surroundings when a baited hook snapped off his line during one session. He thought about the effects of leaving parts of the tackle underwater and worked hard with Morgan to retrieve all the lost bits.
Since starting the group, Dan’s confidence has grown so much. He has found something that has sparked an interest and made him happy.
After a shopping trip with his Dad, Dan now owns a fishing rod and some tackle. He has even taken the next step of kitting himself out with insulated waterproof trousers and a jacket. Dan will not let the colder, wet Welsh weather stop him from enjoying his love for fishing. Chwarae teg Dan!
It is great to have such lovely feedback from Dan’s home support team, who love to see how much Dan looks forward to the fishing session each week.
Good luck, Dan, on your fishing journey. We might join you when it warms up a bit!
Get involved
Would you like to assist people like Dan in getting involved in their local communities and gaining independence? Head to our Careers page to see our current career opportunities!
