NEWS EXCLUSIVE
We find out about a Midlands angling project making a huge difference to young lives... all through the power of angling!
SO MANY youngsters and families are facing tough times that it can be easy to fear for the future. But a pioneering new group in Nuneaton are using fishing to get kids out of trouble and put smiles back on their faces.
With their motto “pick up a rod, not a knife”, the Reel Rod Squad was started by a group of busy parents – Jo and Lee Stroud, along with Matt and Emily Whitmore – who wanted to make a difference.
“It all began with my son LJ’s birthday party fishing trip,” said co-organiser Jo. “It was such a success, we thought we’d start something bigger, because there was very little organised fishing for kids locally.”
Garnering support from local fishery Packington Somers and sponsorship from local shop The Tackle Shack, the new group have been blown away by the response.
“We put a post up on Facebook asking if anybody would be interested in joining a kids fishing team – and we had 500 likes in no time!” said Jo. “There’s often little for kids to do. And when you do hear about young people, it tends to be negative. It can be pretty scary as a parent, so right from the start we wanted to offer the kids another path.”
CATCHING ON QUICKLY!
With support from the Angling Trust’s Get Fishing arm, the group quickly snowballed, hosting regular matches and events. Kind-hearted backers donated tackle, along with discounted and free fishery access, and word soon spread. The competitive element has also been a major factor. “The kids don’t have to be a member – we supply all the tackle, and existing youngsters help newcomers,” Jo told Angling Times. “Once they feel ready, they can join a match. Everyone loves competing, but it’s always friendly.”
Aside from the joy of fishing, it’s the community and wellbeing benefits that have impressed the locals most. “A lot of kids these days are constantly on the go and they get in trouble,” said co-organiser Matt Whitmore. “Some will try after-school clubs, but they quickly move on to something else. Our kids stick with us!”
Parents often can’t believe the change. Shy kids gain confidence, while ‘little fidgets’ develop patience.
Virtually everyone seems to respond well to fresh air, and fishing in the environment they create. Girls are now holding their own against the boys, while parents are also getting a taste for angling – many now take their kids to the waterside outside of group sessions.
“You don’t get that same family bonding with screens
