A Ryde Academy student is the winner of a new annual trophy awarded by Wightlink to recognise responsible fishing from Ryde Pier.
Liam Forbes, 12, a member of the Vectis Boating and Fishing Club, recently received the Wightlink Award for Most Responsible Angler from Operations Director Daryl Palmer at the historic Pier.
Each year, the Vectis Boating and Fishing Club will choose one of its young anglers to receive the new award which is part of Wightlink’s efforts to encourage responsible fishing.
Liam has impressed his club during fishing events held on Ryde Pier over the past year.
Colin Webb, of Vectis Boating and Fishing Club, says:
“Liam deserves to be named the most responsible angler for lots of reasons. He didn’t have a great start to the season but wasn’t disheartened by it and instead he learned that by changing his tackle he was able to catch more fish.
“In addition, throughout the year, he was really clean and tidy, and instantly threw back any weed he caught. He released his fish back into the water with care and respect, which is very important as this makes sure they return to the sea in the best possible condition.”
The club uses the pier to help teach youngsters basic angling skills as fishing from the structure does not require them to cast the long distances required by shore fishermen and women.
Colins adds:
“Wightlink is pivotal to our junior competitions as they allow us to use the pier, waive the fishing permits and supply travel vouchers. Getting children away from Xboxes and into tackle boxes in the fresh air in a controlled competition, introducing and teaching the next generation of anglers is the reason we do it all and we are delighted Wightlink supports us so well”.
Wightlink Operations Director Daryl Palmer adds:
“We have already worked with local fisherman Spencer Wright in highlighting the Angling Trust’s campaign urging anglers to protect the environment and we are really pleased to support younger anglers to convey this very important message.
“Liam is a very worthy first recipient of this new award and we congratulate him – and the Vectis Boating and Fishing Club – for their exemplary approach to responsible angling.”
