Top tackle brands support major Get Into Fishing initiative

Top brands including Okuma, Rapala, Dynamite Baits, Sufix, Reuben Heaton, Eagle Claw, Fortis Eyewear and Dinsmore are supporting a major new initiative by the Angling Trades Association (ATA), the UK industry body, at this year’s Game Fair.

Get Into Fishing (GIF) at The Game Fair is a key part of the ATA’s mission to get more people fishing, while also giving them the chance to see, try and buy the latest tackle.

Held at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire from July 29th to 30th, the Game Fair attracts upwards of 200,000 people annually. And the ATA is promising an experience very different from anything held at the event before, with the most comprehensive structure yet aimed at introducing new people to angling, while also engaging those with some experience across all disciplines.

Coaches will help visitors catch their first fish or cast their first fly, and the Environment Agency (EA) fish tank will be stocked with native fish. The programme will include kids’ activities, demonstrations by experts, Q&As with celebrity anglers and lots more.

And in addition to those companies mentioned above, the  ATA says it will be announcing a list of brands and names over the coming weeks that is ‘impressive to say the least’.

“Ragley is a fantastic venue and we are looking forward to introducing many more people to fishing,” said ATA Chairman Andrew Race. “We know more and more people want to start fishing. The ‘have-a-go’ area on the estate lake is booked solid every year, but many don’t know where to begin.

“GIF is a different approach to engagement and tailor-made to involve people of all ages and abilities.”

GIF is just one of the exciting initiatives being driven by the ATA. The Association also runs National Fishing Month (NFM) and this year will use the Game Fair as its launch event. Every August NFM gives thousands of newcomers the chance to try fishing at events run by qualified coaches across the country.

However, demand for information can outstrip supply – and that is where GIF comes in, says Race.

“GIF is focused solely on ease of access to and information about fishing, with the angling trade actively encouraging people to pick up a rod for the first time or learn more about the pastime.”

Children under eight will enjoy free admission and car parking is also free. EA rod licence holders can claim £5 off their ticket and there will be discounts on many fishing tackle items.

For more information contact chair@anglingtradesassociation.com