Something fishy about Bandon Scouts' day out

BANDON Scouts recently enjoyed a fishing tuition day organised by the local angling association and supported by Inland Fisheries Ireland. 

In total, 15 scouts took part in the event which saw them learn the basics of fly fishing, water safety, fish biology and ecology on the River Blackwater.

Bandon Angling Association received sponsorship for the event from an Inland Fisheries’ scheme which supports angling events and initiatives across the country. 

Bandon Angling Association’s Scout Day is one of six angling initiatives in Cork to receive sponsorship this year. The initiative saw children participate in theoretical and practical lessons with Glenda Powell, a renowned fly fishing instructor from Waterford who led the tuition day. The scouts were also taught how to fly cast with support from Bandon Angling Association.

Suzanne Campion, head of business development at Inland Fisheries Ireland, said: ‘We are delighted to support this fantastic initiative by Bandon Angling Association and Bandon Scouts, which introduces young people to fly fishing. We are committed to supporting community groups who want to help increase participation in angling and to position Ireland as a premier national and international angling destination.’

Jason Nash, Bandon Angling Association added: ‘The day was very successful with weather and water conditions kind to us. The scouts enjoyed a day of learning with practical hands-on experience of fly fishing as well as learning about the river and fish in general. Members of the Association were keen to organise the day with a view to encouraging these young novice anglers to take up fishing as a hobby.’