Don’t be afraid to try something different: Monthly tip from Big Duffs

Hello to all the wonderful students and coaches involved with Fishing for Schools.

I’m going to be doing a monthly tip for you all and I wanted to start off with a really important one… don’t be afraid to try something different.

One of the best things about fishing is just how many different types of angling there are out there. Over the years I’ve been very lucky to experience lots of different styles of fishing, from carp angling here in the UK to adventures abroad chasing species I never imagined I would target.

I’ve recently returned from a trip to the mighty River Ebro in Spain, where I was fishing for huge catfish. If I’m being honest with you all, I never really thought catfishing would be my kind of thing. I’ve always been known more for my carp fishing, so it was definitely something outside my comfort zone.

But I was completely wrong.

The excitement, the power of the fish, the atmosphere, and the whole experience absolutely blew me away. I enjoyed every second of it and it’s safe to say I’ll definitely be returning for another trip in the future.

That experience reminded me of something really important. If we never try new things, we never discover what we might actually love.

That could be trying a new venue, targeting a different species, learning a new method, or even just fishing with new people. Sometimes the best memories in angling come from stepping outside of your normal routine and giving something different a go.

So my message to all of you this month is simple:
Be brave, stay curious, and never be afraid to try something new.

You never know where it might take you.

I wish you all very wet nets, tight lines, and most importantly, I hope you enjoy yourselves out on the bank.