Press Release 31st October 2008

Recreational Angling Ireland (RAI) brought 17 young children fly fishing for the first time.

17 young children braved another wet and windy day to attend Recreational Angling Ireland’s (RAI) introduction to fly fishing which took place on Saturday the 25th of October at Rathcon rainbow fishery near Baltinglass Co. Wicklow.

Mark Corps from the Central Fisheries Board, Ashley Hayden, Eastern Regional Fisheries Board and Paddy Byrne from RAI helped the 17 enthusiastic first time anglers learn the techniques required for fly fishing.

The day was broken up into two parts; during the morning session, each child was given a casting demonstration and shown the correct way to cast. They were also shown the different types of tackle and the best ways to use them.

After a well deserved break, each child put their new found talents into practice. Everyone was determined to catch a fish; the weather did nothing to help the situation. A couple of fish were hooked but only one was landed. Although only one fish was caught everyone really enjoyed the day. Hopefully the bad luck won’t deter anyone from taking part again.

John O’ Connor chairman of RAI said “I am delighted that so many young people have taken the opportunity to avail of the RAI’s angling days. Angling is a constructive hobby for any young person to develop which can be handed down through the generations. The RAI angling days give young people an understanding of their environment and what a great resource it really is.”

For more information on RAI angling events please log onto: www.recreationalanglingireland.comm or contact Paddy Byrne Email: pfbyrne5@eircom.net or mobile: 087 2906866

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