Specialist Angling Societies

[Pete156]

There are various specialist angling societies available for anglers to join (i.e. The Carp Society, The Tenchfishers, Pike Anglers Club, Barbel Society etc.).

What I would like to know is what anglers expect from these groups after they have joined, bearing in mind that many do not contribute (except for their fees) nor attend any of the meetings or fish-ins that are arranged for them.

Also, what do these societies need to offer to get 'dormant' members active, or maybe these anglers are only after the badge & teeshirt!

Any thoughts?

[Vagabond]

Although when after a particular species I try to adopt a specialist approach, I'm not a member of any of the specialist societies - as I think (personal opinion only) that life is too short to spend exclusively in pursuit of one species.

 

However, I do support the SAA as a personal member, as whatever their shortcomings, they do two things - They represent the specialist angler, and they support unity amongst all sorts of anglers.

 

I no longer get involved with the politics, just send a cheque and some encouragement.

 

Don't knock the guy who "only" contributes a fee - most societies would fold without him.

 

For example I belong to a carp syndicate, but fish the water for its roach and perch. Other members are delighted that I contribute my fee but put no pressure on any of the carp swims.

 

[ 31. October 2004, 11:40 AM: Message edited by: Vagabond ]

[Leon Roskilly]

Usually the magazine is the biggest benefit.

 

Packed with thought provoking articles written by enthusiasts, rather than hacks.

 

Usually most societies have local or regional groups that meet, a chance to get together over a pint and hear and talk about some interesting stuff.

 

Conservation/political lobbying is often a big draw for some societies, helping to do your bit with your support, maybe more.

 

Then there are the fish-ins, a chance to fish waters that you wouldn't normally fish, with some knowledgeable people to put you onto the right track.

 

Lots of other benefits too, when I look back at the societies that I've been/are a member of. I've made some good friends along the way.

 

Tight Lines - leon

[Pete156]

Vagabond, whilst I agree that anglers who "only" contribute a fee keep most societies going it just seems a shame that more of them don't get involved in the activities of the societies.

[wearyone]

Pete, Its not what you expect to get out of such groups, more like what you can put in. Thats why most of the smaller S.S.groups have some kind of entry acceptance.

Have a look at the C.S.G.link at the bottom of this page

 

[ 31. October 2004, 06:55 PM: Message edited by: wearyone ]

[Dick Dastardly]

I think Leon has about summed it up.I personally prefer groups that do have an entry standard or recruit individually rather than openly.A bit elitist I know but they offer much more than the open to all groups.The open to all groups are fine as they provide a good starting point for all even the "badge wearers" just wish a lot more people would get it into perspective ie just cause a guy wears a PAC badge for arguments sake doesnt mean he handles pike any better than a non PAC member or should get preferential acsess to a pike water.On the other hand if you were to invite a BCSG member to your water you would be safe in assuming he was a experienced and acomplished carp angler.

[wearyone]

However Pete, you can do no better than join the SAA whilst considering your options.

SAA represent almost all of the major specialist angling groups and many individual specialst anglers'.

For a yearly membership subscription of just £10-00 you can be represented at the highest level with as much or as little commitment as you wish to put in. Receive three issues a year of New Specialist Angler magazine and a Founder Member lapel badge.

 

Again, click on the SAA link below.

 

[ 31. October 2004, 08:16 PM: Message edited by: wearyone ]

[Pete156]

Interesting comments, thanks chaps. I guess I now ought to get off my backside and join the SAA, which I've been meaning to for a while now.

 

Pete Crane

Mid-West Regional Organiser

The Tenchfishers.

[Dick Dastardly]

"For a yearly membership subscription of just £10-00 you can be represented at the highest level with as much or as little commitment as you wish to put in."

 

John,if I was to join the SAA exactly how and to what degree would I be represented?Sell it to me John as Im getting closer each year to giving you a go!

[wearyone]

Again Budgie, click on the SAA link below.If you cant find what you want there contact Mike Heylin, SAA Secretary.

 

Peter, as a member of The Tenchfishers you should already receive copies of the SAA magazine, but all new individual memberships are more than welcome.

 

Also, on 21st November, SAA is hosting a meeting for coarse, game and sea predator groups, both in membership and outside of SAA to discuss the issue of live baiting in all forms of angling.

 

Again, contact Mike Heylin, SAA Secretary for further information.

 

[ 01. November 2004, 02:22 PM: Message edited by: wearyone ]