Sunday the 9th of July 2017 saw this year’s fishing fun day come and go with a flourish, the weather and the fish were both obliging once again. This year’s event managed to break all records with a staggering 360 youngsters attending the event to have a go, and most managed to catch a few as well, for those who were less successful there is always next year.
Once the budding anglers were all booked in and furnished with their free fishing kit it was off to choose a likely looking spot with the hope of tempting a bite or two. It wasn’t long until reports of fish being caught and monsters getting away were being reported back. On the subject of monsters congratulations to Riley Bond who managed to catch a 5lb 2oz Tench on the whip provided, a feat that most accomplished anglers have never achieved and as such earned him the Catch of the day award and prizes.
The Coaches award was won by Becca Crosby who impressed the coaches with her determination and passion.
Finally the prestigious Tackle Box Angler of the day award was won by a Lola-Jean Thompson, Lola initially didn’t want to attend the event as she thought fishing was for boys even though she had never been before, however, it wasn’t long until she caught her 1st fish and after that she went on to catch a proverbial hat full.
Congratulations to you all.
At the end of the event as always the giant raffle was held and numerous prizes won, and all of the young anglers were able to take home their fishing kit to try another day courtesy of the Tackle Box.
360 youngsters along with their appropriate adults in attendance takes some significant organising both beforehand and on the day itself, thankfully as always there were a large contingent of volunteer’s who as always stepped up and helped out. DDAPS would like to thank all of the committee members who assisted, Kent Police, Location Medical Services, The qualified angling coaches on the day. Keeley on the check in desk, Smith and Chapman Photography for providing their services for free. Elliot’s snacks. Russell Charlton. Paul Colville for their un-wavering support and assistance every year, and anyone else that assisted on the day.
A special thanks to the Tackle Box in Watling Street Dartford who sponsor the event and without whom this event would not be possible.