Angling Mentors, an organisation which simultaneously supports volunteer mentors and encourages young people with complex needs into the world of fly-fishing, is calling for fundraising support to host a day’s fishing at Chalk Springs Trout Fishery next month.
On 14th August 2024, twenty young people living in poverty with social and mental challenges will be invited to enjoy a day’s fishing at Chalk Springs Trout Fishery with Angling Mentors. The day will include mentorship by a group of experienced fly-fishing anglers, breakfast and a barbecue lunch, casting instruction led by Orvis UK, fish-handling guidance, and fly-tying with YETI® and Semperfli kit.
The day sets out to give young people from difficult backgrounds the opportunity to grow in confidence through achievement.
Shane Davies from Angling Mentors says “This event is all about using the health-giving benefits of fishing. Through my own experience, I have seen first-hand how therapeutically beneficial it is for those who have suffered trauma to be immersed in nature, water, and fishing. It is so important for these young people to engage in these areas, so they can be equipped with the tools they need to manage their challenging experiences and look forward.”
In an aim to raise money for the cost of the day’s fishing on 14th August at Chalk Springs Trout Fishery, Shane and one of his students, Spencer, are together undertaking 100 miles of the South Downs Way, stopping to fly fish and catch one trout at one fishery each day. The walk began in Winchester on 29th July and ends at Eastbourne on 4th August. Donations can be made at Shane's JustGiving page.
When asked about his fly-fishing experience, Spencer said “It helps me to calm down, and I enjoy the challenge of being able to catch the browns [trout] the most. I am looking forward to sharing my new skill with my friends, in particular, my brother.”
To get in touch, become an instructor, and / or support this event and others, please contact shane@anglingmentors.co.uk