This year we wanted our children to try a new sport- Fly Fishing. Studies have shown that this sport has many benefits. The focused attention and rapid reaction time involved in fly fishing not only strengthens the mind but enables those taking part to experience lower levels of cortisol, anxiety and stress.
On Tuesday 4th July 2023, we went up to Swindon Reservoir in Worsthorne where we met Neil from The River Trust, who comes into school to help with our Year 6 Trout release. Neil and his 4 fishing volunteers – all from different organisations- like the angling club etc. came to teach our children how to fly fish.
We first started by practicing our casting technique without a fly and once we’d refined our skills, we walked up to the reservoir to see whether we could put our new skills to the test.
Once at the reservoir, we took it in turns with our instructors to cast and try and catch some fish. It was extremely relaxing. As a group, we practiced our breathing techniques, enjoyed being out in the countryside and also relaxed whilst being at one with our thoughts.
Unfortunately, after having participated in over an hours’ worth of fishing, we still did not manage to catch any fish. One fish was caught by Neil’s team. However, I feel that the skill of fishing was only part of what we learned during our time at Swindon Reservoir.
