Catching my first fish is all a bit of a blur as it happened when I was just 3 years old! Thanks to my Dad however here, I can tell you the story.
I was on a family holiday in Norfolk, along with my godparents, and my dad had decided he wanted to do a spot of beach fishing. As soon as my dad cast the rod, I wanted it. Dad handed it to me – you can see in this picture that the beach caster was so big that I had to stand over it to keep hold.
Me being Miss Determined I would not hand the rod back to my dad when he asked for it, much to the amusement of my godmother seen in the picture with me. After waiting for bites on all rods, I hooked the first and only fish of the day – a Pollock. My dad recalls how excited I was and I had the biggest grin on my face.
Fishing for me still brings as much excitement. I have coarse fished in the past but fly fishing is my main discipline. I love the sound of the line as I cast and the anticipation of hooking a fish.
Fishing also helps me escape the madness of everyday life. One thing I really love about fishing is the way it brings people together, the companionship you share with fellow anglers and the tales to hear and share. Being a member of the Fishing For Everyone Ladies Fishing Club cements this even further, making each trip hilarious and full of gossip.
For the year ahead I am hoping to widen my fishing knowledge and take inspiration from Mr Crabtree.