Wannabe anglers are being reeled in to take part in free fly-fishing taster sessions this month in Ponteland and Seaham.
As part of its commitment to introduce new anglers to the sport, the Environment Agency has organised two taster days in July so that people can have a go, supervised by qualified coaches.
Phil Rippon, Newcastle-based fisheries expert, said: “Angling is a sport which is open to anyone no matter how old they are or what their ability is.
“We’ve organised these days so people who’ve not fished before can get a taster of the sport and hopefully encourage more people to regularly pick up a fishing rod.
“Here in the North East, we’re lucky to have some of the best river fishing for salmon and trout and some excellent stillwater fisheries so people don’t have to travel far for quality fishing in a great environment.â€
The taster sessions will take place at Sharperley Springs near Seaham on Saturday 14 July and Highham Lakes, Ponteland, on Saturday 21 July.
There will be two sessions on each day, from 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm. Local people will get the opportunity to learn the art of how to cast a fly line and have the chance to catch a trout.
All equipment will be provided and up to 15 anglers can be catered for at each session.
To sign up call Sarah Baillie on 0191 203 4138.
