'Fishing Buddies' helpin to improve Mental Health

Cambridge Charity Fund Raisers Ian Darler B.E.M., and Cambridge United Foundation have set up 'Fishing Buddies' to provide an opportunity for people to take time out of their day to come together to fish, talk and socialise.


The sessions have been created to share the benefits of fishing with anglers who feel alone through loss of a family member or a friend, have health or mobility concerns, stress at work or other challenges, and have possibly lost their confidence to go fishing on their own.


The aim is simple but powerful – to improve mental health, reduce social isolation and create friendships for people who are too often left feeling lonely and need company. 'Fishing Buddies' will provide the opportunity for people to ‘open up’ and chat about any concerns that they may not have been able to talk about in the past, breaking down barriers to wellbeing, using fishing as a pathway to improve mental health, create a strong community, and lasting change.


Fishing with a friend allows you to share the excitement of the catch however big or small, along with the more peaceful moments beside the water, and chatting about life’s stories. Fishing is about more than just catching fish. It is about friendships and the bond that forms between fishing friends, many light-hearted stories and life’s challenges have been spoken about whilst sitting on the banks of rivers and lakes.


Fishing in remote locations can be lonely, fishing friendships adds an extra layer of safety, ensuring that there is always someone to assist in case of an emergency or having someone to help carry the tackle and other things that make the trip safer and reassuring.


Being outdoors can also improve mental well-being. Spending time with nature, outlines how exposure to natural environments is linked to improved mood, and a reduction in anxiety.


The first event was very successful and we must thank Richard Arnold of Wrenbridge Sport and Martin Crook of M & M heating & plumbing for supporting the event and the Island Grill for providing a roast lunch at the lakeside.

I believe this event was one of the most emotional days I have been involved with during the 20 years of CCFR, What a privilege it was to meet so many nice people and listen to their journey through life.

We must also thank Matt Wright from CPSL Mind for attending and having a chat to all the anglers who found the discussions very helpful.

The day was non-competitive other than a prize for the two biggest fish of the day which were won by Jason Petch & Wayne Thomas.

Finally thanks to Fraser Gilbert of Frasers fishery for hosting the event .

Wayne Thomas best fish of the day award

Jason Petch best fish of the day award at the fishing buddies