At Orvis, we believe the joy of fishing and time spent outdoors should be open to everyone. The British Disabled Angling Association (BDAA) has long been working to make that belief a reality, creating opportunities for anglers of all abilities to experience the water, learn new skills and share in the community that fishing brings.
Rachael Brady, Orvis International Account Manager, has supported the BDAA for several years through her involvement with the Angling Village at the Chatsworth Country Show. Here, she shares how she first became involved with the charity, why their work matters so much and some of the moments that have stayed with her along the way.
How did you first become involved with the British Disabled Angling Association, and what drew you to their work?
I first came across the BDAA, based at Ladybower in the Peak District, in 2019 through the Angling Village at Chatsworth Country Show. Troy Chadwick, BDAA Coordinator, and his amazing team are some of the most dedicated individuals I have had the pleasure to meet within the angling community, and it was through their enthusiasm and drive to make angling accessible that made me want to learn more about the organisation.
Why do you believe the work the BDAA does is so important, particularly within angling and the outdoors?
The BDAA celebrates the pure ‘essence’ of fishing, enabling everyone the chance to experience this great pastime. Over the years I have seen the dedication that they put in and the opportunities that they provide to anyone with different abilities to ensure that angling is accessible to all. The BDAA team based at Ladybower have a classroom available for learning how to tie flies, discover more about entomology, and create friendships at the same time. Whilst on the water, they teach casting, fish welfare and handling, plus provide the opportunity to learn how to drive the wheely boats and feel the wind in your hair! Fundamentally, angling isn’t just about catching fish, it’s about inclusivity, friendship and learning new skills. It becomes a way of life!
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What barriers do disabled anglers often face, and how does the BDAA help remove or reduce those barriers?
When you have different needs, getting into a new sport can be a daunting experience. The BDAA have extensive knowledge when it comes to breaking down barriers and opening angling to all. Friendly, personable coaches who understand that teaching isn’t ‘one size fits all’ and know how best to adapt their teaching based on the needs of the participant. Wheely boats, which are accessible for wheelchair/mobility aid users, provide the opportunity so that anglers can experience the thrill of being on the water whilst catching a fish. Alternatively, safe pontoons for the angler who wants to stay on ‘dry land’ when fishing. Not only this, but accessible equipment as well. Whether it is adapted tackle or using additional equipment such as the Rexfly Casting System, for anyone with limb differences or weaknesses following an illness or injury, nothing is in the way of ensuring everyone has a great day on or next to the water.
Have you seen a moment or experience through the BDAA that really stayed with you?
When I have popped down to Ladybower to see the team, there has regularly been a BDAA session about to start. Groups of excited faces eager to get out after a successful day previously, plus those ready to try fishing for maybe the first time. The chatter in the carpark, the tall tales of the fish they caught last time and the one they are hoping to catch today can be heard and it makes me feel the excitement and anticipation of the fishing day ahead!
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The most memorable experience though has to be at the Chatsworth Country Show in August 2025. Every year the Angling Village holds a Fly v Maggot competition each day of the show, with the winning team being crowned on Sunday. Over the last couple of years, the BDAA have also had a representative, a young man called Josh. Josh, alongside his assistants Ian and Richard, landed 9 fish in the 30-minute timed slot - one of which was a beautiful chub weighing in around 5lb. The smile on Josh’s face and the cheers from the crowd was an amazing thing to experience.
From your point of view as part of the Orvis team, why does supporting inclusive angling matter?
Over my years in the industry, I have always worked to open angling to everyone. As a demonstrator and ambassador for the Angling Village, my goal is to spread the word about how great fishing is and if I can encourage even just one person to pick up a rod and give it a go then it’s a great achievement. As I’ve mentioned, angling isn’t all about catching fish. It’s about experiencing the outdoors and getting to learn about nature. The feeling of mental wellbeing that being beside a river or lake provides, having that time to sit and enjoy the sights and sounds around you, feeling the everyday pressures of work and life melt away and your shoulders loosen as you relax and merge into your surroundings. This feeling shouldn’t just be for those who can hike up to a remote tarn or wade through a rocky river, it should be available to anyone and everyone.
What would you say to someone considering supporting or getting involved with the BDAA?
Don’t hesitate. The BDAA are a registered charity and receive no government funding. They rely on donations and volunteers to keep their services going. There are many ways that you can support the BDAA, whether its monetary or your time. I feel so fortunate to be able to support the BDAA and to see first-hand what life changing opportunities they are providing to people. www.bdaa.co.uk
