Ware Angling Club Open Day – A Brilliant Turnout 07/06/25

Yesterday we held our open day for both members and non-members, and despite a forecast of heavy rain and thunderstorms, we were lucky enough to dodge the worst of it. It turned out to be a brilliant day all round.

Organised by the club committee, the event was part of the Angling Trust’s “Get Fishing” initiative, which is all about encouraging new people into the sport, especially juniors. We had four qualified Angling Trust coaches giving free tuition to children and adults throughout the day. Many were picking up a rod for the first time, and it was great to see so many new faces enjoying time on the bank.

Last year, the club secured funding from rod licence fees to purchase a full set of junior coaching equipment, and events like this help us make the most of it by offering proper coaching sessions in a safe and supportive environment. Our safeguarding officer was present throughout the day to make sure everything ran smoothly and safely.

Around the lake, members were set up giving demonstrations on different angling styles and chatting to visitors. We also ran two raffles, one for the kids with prizes kindly donated by Johnson Ross Tackle in Hoddesdon, and one for the adults with prizes from The Pellet Guy. There was a second-hand tackle sale run by the club to raise extra funds, a catering van on site serving food, and we supplied drinks for everyone.

We were really pleased to be joined by the Mayor of Ware, Graeme Hill, who came along to show his support. He passed on his best wishes to the club and thanked us for putting on such a positive event for the local community.

Overall, it was a great day and a brilliant example of what we’re trying to do, create opportunities for more people, especially youngsters, to enjoy fishing and get involved in the sport. Huge thanks to everyone who helped out, donated, came along or supported the day in any way.

Darren Nixon

Honorary General Secretary

Ware Angling Club