5 reasons to make fishing your new hobby in 2020

However, despite fishing being one of the most popular recreational pastimes in the UK, there are still many non-anglers who may not understand the benefits to be gained from getting out on the water.

Here are just five reasons to make fishing your new hobby this year, there are many more!

Get healthy

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of fishing is the amazing effect it can have on both your physical and mental health.

Contrary to popular belief, fishing is not a completely sedentary activity. While you might not be embroiled in a long battle with a ‘monster’ fish, landing even a small fish will call for great physical efforts from shoulders, back, arms, core and leg muscles.

Whether you are fishing from one of the 54 fishing boats on our lake at Bewl Water or from the picturesque bank, catching a fish will require both balance and agility. Working on your balance is a great way to build core strength and flexibility as well as providing relief for common ailments such as back pain.

Whether walking from fishing spot to fishing spot with your tackle, recasting your line or hopefully reeling in a decent-sized trout, fishing can burn an average of 200 calories an hour and provide a decent cardiovascular workout.

And don’t forget the effect physical well being will have upon your mental health. After a hard week at the office or at home, what could be better than a couple of hours of relaxation either on the water or on the bank at Bewl Water? In a process similar to meditation the long hours spent in nature can even lower blood pressure and decrease stress.

Disconnect and reconnect

One of the most commonly reported sources of stress comes as a result of constantly being connected to our phones and other electronic gadgets.

Take the opportunity of a day fishing to turn off your phone, or at least your notifications, and take yourself off the grid. Doing so will allow you to take advantage of another great benefit of fishing, reconnecting with family and friends.

For thousands of years fishing has been a skill handed down through the generations, and there is no reason why this can’t still be so. Spending time with all generations in your family helps build feelings of well-being and security, making fishing an excellent activity to share.

It can also be a great way to bond with new friends over a shared hobby. You’ll be able to pass on your skills and maybe learn some new ones at the same time.

Building independence

On the flip side, fishing is also a great way to empower yourself. It is common in modern society to have to rely on others for all kinds of services, but if you master fishing you will have mastered a whole series of skills.

If you can real in a big fish or repair a broken line what else can you achieve? If you can fish for your own food that is an incredible skill to have, even if you never need to use it for survival!

Enjoying the great outdoors

Exploring our fishing lakes in Kent will create a much deeper connection with the natural world. People who fish can’t get away from an awareness of the balance in our ecosystems, not just the fish they are trying to catch but also the insects upon which they feed and the predators that eat them in turn.

Being outside, whether the sun is shining or not, will also help to boost your immune system. Sunlight is a great source of Vitamin D, which helps your body absorb phosphorus and calcium and defend against all manner of diseases.

Superfood

It is important not to forget the original purpose of fishing, which was to provide food for your family.

While not everyone will want to take home their catch, particularly those who prefer to catch-and-release, many people who fish don’t feel the day is complete without bringing home a tasty dinner.

Fish is one of the healthiest meats you can feed your family, in particular it is high in omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

What do I need for a day’s fishing?

If you’re heading out to one of the fabulous fishing lakes in Kent, here’s a handy checklist to ensure you have a great day.

• Fishing licence or permit – it is illegal to fish without one.
• Equipment – make sure you speak with one of the experts at our tackle shop to make sure you have the correct rods, reels, line, tackle and bait for the fish you want to catch.
• Check the weather – overcast days can be best.
• Water and snacks – to keep you hydrated and focused throughout the day.
• Clothing – make sure you are dressed for all eventualities.

Despite our great reasons above, not everyone will be won over and if you are going fishing with family or friends at Bewl Water it is important to think about doing things that you all can enjoy.

Out of all the fishing lakes in Kent, Bewl Water is a great destination because of the huge variety of activities on offer other than just fishing. On the water your friends and family might try an adrenaline-fuelled trip to the Aqua Park, but also sailing, stand-up paddle boarding and much, much more.

On land you’ll find a children’s soft play and adventure play area and the action-packed laser challenge course. With a variety of food and drink options, a trip to Bewl Water is a great idea whatever day of the week. And if you want to prolong your stay, we also have excellent camping facilities.

Whatever the activity, why not pay us a visit and start a new hobby this year at Bewl Water?