Rob Carter: I discovered three words that could change angling for the better

I attended the second EFTTA Annual Summit in Berlin earlier this month where the notion of ‘togetherness’ was made a central theme. How different angling bodies could harness shared experiences, shared insights and, of course, shared data to better protect angling throughout Europe.

But what struck me deeply was how each speaker talked only of challenges. Whether it was participation, access or legislation, those shared experiences were of battles to fight and obstacles to overcome.

My feeling as each representative took to the mic? If there is strength in numbers, we need bigger numbers. Of anglers, and Europe-wide. But we won’t get there by being introspective. Or by sharing regional stories.

Angling needs to change the conversation – and it needs to project way beyond a meeting room in Berlin.

You say you want to come together to grow angling? Then you need to think about what truly connects those who fish – and then you need to package that up in a way that draws non-anglers into the fold. A way that makes them understand the appeal. A way that makes them want them to take part.

So think about this. If you wanted to truly promote angling to as many people as possible instead of defending it, what would you say? I think I know, and it takes only three words.

Angling needs a universal vision that everyone in the trade can spread and which will work to make non-anglers of every description take notice.

What if we stopped playing on the back foot and started telling the world what millions of us already know? What if we shared a single, confident, positive message about the true power of this sport? So tell people this:

Anglers are happier.

That’s it. Anglers are happier. A new message that works to bring people into the sport and from different target groups too.

Around the globe, people are searching for calm, connection and community. So let’s put the message to the test. Let’s show people that anglers are happier just when the world is ready to hear a message of hope.

Test it.

Let’s tell mums who worry about their teenage sons spending too long in front of computer screens and being influenced by the wrong types of role models. He’s miserable and angry at the world? Well, anglers are happier. Buy him a rod and reel and send him out to connect with better people.

Let’s remind lapsed anglers of the times they were at their happiest. It was when they were out fishing, surely? Time to come back…

Let’s tell people stuck in cities what they probably already know. Access to ‘blue-space’ natural environments is good for the soul. Anglers are out there next to water… and they are happier. You should join them.

And let’s continue to reach out to people suffering with mental health issues. It has already been proved by an academic study in the UK that frequent angling helps lower odds of reported depression among men. Is that not a powerful message, not only to the men themselves, but to their families and friends? Anglers are happier and that extends to those around them too.

You can extend it further too. To families seeking to connect? Anglers are happier. Try it. Or the opposite, wives who know their husbands need to decompress. They will be happier after a day’s fishing, encourage it. To sports enthusiasts or adventurers seeking a buzz of achievement? Take up angling, it will make you happier.

It feels to me that the world is finally ready to hear this. More than ready – hungry for it. Governments are wrestling with mental-health crises. Parents are looking for safe, grounding, meaningful outdoor activities for their children. Brands are redefining themselves around wellbeing, sustainability and social impact.

And here we are – with a sport that delivers all of it. A sport that unites generations, builds resilience, supports mental health, nurtures stewardship of water and wildlife and gives young people an alternative that’s positive, absorbing and real.

So what if we said it together? What if the global angling trade – manufacturers, retailers, media, tackle brands, event organisers, fisheries, associations – spoke with one voice? Not defending. Not apologising. But proudly promoting fishing as one of the most powerful forces for personal wellbeing and social good in the modern world.

We could call on governments, health services, educators, community leaders and families to:

• Recognise angling as a vital tool for mental health, social prescribing, and community wellbeing.
• Support access to fisheries and waterways, especially in urban or under-served areas.
• Encourage young people to take up a rod – as a constructive alternative to screen-time, risk or isolation.
• Foster inclusive, accessible angling – with outreach to people with disabilities, newcomers and young families.
• Promote conservation and stewardship – caring for waterways that sustain us, fish that unite us.

And why not? Let’s make angling not just a pastime – but a movement for global wellbeing. Spread the word. Anglers are happier.