A new study conducted by the Environment Agency has revealed that fishing is the most popular way for anglers to ease the stress of their daily lives. Coinciding with Stress Awareness Month, it is hoped that this new data will encourage more people to take up angling as a way of combating stress and anxiety.
The research confirmed some interesting findings, indicating that 99% of anglers go fishing as their way of relieving stress, with many sighting it as their main reason for choosing to go. Of those anglers surveyed, 69% agreed that fishing was the perfect way to provide them with quality time, in a stress free environment, with their family and friends, with many stating that friendships carved within angling are some of the strongest relationships they have.
WANT TO START FISHING? CHECK OUT OUR HELPFUL ARTICLE FOR ALL THE THINGS YOU NEED TO START.
This was reflected in a survey conducted by the Angling Trust, where they found very similar results. In a survey of over 4000 British anglers, it was concluded that angling was very effective at reducing stress and strengthening relationships between family and friends. Nine out of ten anglers agreed that fishing was far more beneficial to their mental health than other outdoor activities such as running, walking, and similar pursuits
Heidi Stone, Environment Agency Fisheries Partnerships Manager said:
"Stress Awareness Month is a great opportunity to remind the public of the benefits that fishing can bring to mental health and wellbeing."
"Through licence income, we are able to help fund wellbeing initiatives, such as The Angling and Mental Health Initiative (AMHI), which brings the relaxing benefits of fishing to people seeking an outlet for life’s stresses.”
Founder of the AMHI, Ben Harragan explained why fishing is so important to many:
"Fishing is a great opportunity to connect with others, be in nature and calm the mind - it's something that everyone of all ages can enjoy and take part in."
"I fished with my family when I was a young lad, then fell in love with it again later in life after experiencing some personal struggles with my mental health. I found solace in fishing and now I’m proud to be helping many others do the same via our Initiative," he said.
Evidence of the benefits of angling can only serve to further safeguard the sport. The potential advantages of taking up angling will hopefully introduce new people to fishing, further strengthening its popularity for decades to come.
To find out more information on when you need a fishing licence, and how to buy one, visit: www.gov.uk/fishing-licences/buy-a-fishing-licence
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE, WATCH THIS EA VIDEO ON THE BENEFITS OF FISHING!
This page is a free example of the amazing content Angling Times Members get every single week. Becoming an Angling Times Member gives you access to award-winning magazine content, member rewards, our back issue archives, bonus content and more! Join our fishing community and find out more today!