Fishing has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, but my journey as an angler has been anything but straightforward. When I first started fishing in the early 70s, it was all about pleasure fishing—simple outings to unwind by the water. Back then, it wasn’t about trophies or competition; it was about the thrill of being outdoors, trying my luck with a rod and reel.
But while I enjoyed it, I was also riddled with self-doubt. The thought of entering a match terrified me. What if I caught nothing? With no close family members to guide me, I had to figure everything out on my own. Back in those days, there was no internet, no YouTube tutorials, and certainly no online forums. My education came from books and magazines, which, while helpful, often left me second-guessing myself. I didn’t know if my techniques were right or wrong, and as a result, my catches were sparse. Still, I kept going—something about fishing kept pulling me back.
Finding My Feet in the Fishing World
Things began to change when I joined a local fishing club in the 80s. This was a turning point for me. Being part of a club not only gave me access to better fishing spots but also introduced me to a community of like-minded anglers. One of them, a skilled club angler only a few years older than me, became a mentor of sorts. From him, I learnt new techniques and gained the confidence to improve my fishing skills.
Unfortunately, life had other plans. Work, my passion for playing guitar in a band, and the general busyness of young adulthood pushed fishing to the back burner. For years, I barely touched my gear, though I never got rid of it. Deep down, I always knew I’d return to the water someday.
The Digital Revolution in Fishing
Fast forward to the mid-90s, and the internet was suddenly at everyone’s fingertips. By then, my interest in fishing had never truly disappeared. I found myself scouring online forums, watching countless YouTube videos, and soaking up advice from seasoned anglers. This digital revolution was a game-changer. For the first time, I could see techniques in action and learn from some of the best anglers in the world.
That said, as my knowledge grew, I began to notice that many of the articles in fishing magazines were repeating the same advice. It was a sign that I had outgrown those resources and was ready to rely on my own understanding. This newfound confidence made me eager to apply what I’d learned, even if my fishing trips remained sporadic due to life’s commitments.
Rediscovering My Passion
Over the years, I dabbled in fishing whenever I could, especially on holidays. France became a favourite destination, and I often found myself fishing more there than in England. Despite the occasional trip, I knew I wasn’t fully immersed in the sport I loved.
Now, things are different. Retirement has gifted me the one thing I’d always lacked: time. With my family grown and settled, I can finally dedicate myself to fishing without distractions. And thanks to modern technology, I’ve been able to stay inspired by watching top match anglers like Jamie Hughes, Andy May, Des Shipp, Andy "Bagger" Bennett, and Andy Power. Their expertise and passion have reignited my own desire to fish competitively.
Why Match Fishing?
So, why match fishing? For me, it’s about filling a gap that has always existed in my fishing journey. I’ve enjoyed fishing as a pastime, but I’ve never tested myself in a competitive setting. Match fishing offers focus, structure, and a way to measure progress—qualities that resonate with me at this stage of my life.
There’s something deeply rewarding about the idea of challenging myself and seeing how I stack up against others. Of course, it’s not just about the competition. Fishing, as I’ve discovered time and time again, is incredible for mental health and general wellbeing. The concentration, patience, and time spent in nature create a unique sense of calm and satisfaction that’s hard to find elsewhere.
What I’ve Learned Along the Way
Reflecting on my journey, there are a few key lessons I’ve picked up:
Why Not Give It a Go?
If you’ve ever been curious about fishing—or match fishing in particular—there’s no better time to start. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s a way to connect with nature, improve your mental health, and push yourself to grow. Whether you’re a complete novice or someone like me, returning to the sport with a fresh perspective, fishing has something to offer everyone.
So, dust off your old rods, grab some bait, and head to the water. You might just find, like I have, that fishing isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about rediscovering yourself.