Fishing is seeing a surge in popularity, particularly among young people. The Angling Trust reported that 48,000 13- to 16-year-olds registered for their own rod licences in 2024, a 23% increase from the previous year. Many younger anglers also tag along, though under-13s do not need a licence. Fans say the pastime helps them connect with nature, reducing stress and easing anxiety.
Catching on with celebrities
The BBC show Gone Fishing, featuring Paul Whitehouse and Bob Mortimer, has inspired many to take up the sport. But other stars also enjoy fishing. David Beckham, a keen angler, shared photos of his catches on social media. For his 50th birthday, he fished in Scotland with sons Romeo and Cruz. He has also fished for salmon in Iceland with Guy Ritchie and during a family trip to Norway.
Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is a fan of carp fishing, introduced by promoter Barry Hearn. Last year he landed a 42lb carp. Darts world No.1 Luke Littler, who loves fishing, will take part in the Target Sports Stars Fishing Championship for the third year. He first fished in 2024 and appears in the Netflix series Matchroom: The Greatest Showman.
Boxer Tony Bellew started fishing in 2018 for ITV4's The Big Fish Off. He now regularly appears at the Target Sports Stars Fishing Championship. Ex-England goalkeeper David Seaman, fishing since age 22, appeared on BBC's Countryfile last year. He says: "It’s just great being out and away - that’s where the love of fishing came from, just being out. And you don’t always have to catch. You can still enjoy it even if you don’t catch a big fish."
Manchester City star Phil Foden uses fishing to escape professional football pressure. He says: "When people find out they say ‘what a weird sport to enjoy.’ They don’t understand why you enjoy it. Obviously, they need to go and try it. I think it’s the perfect hobby to rest your legs and have some down time."
Charity event coming up
The Target Sports Stars Fishing Championship, the UK's biggest annual charity fishing event, takes place at Tunnel Barn Farm, Warwick, on Tuesday, July 28. This year's 32 celebrity competitors include Luke Littler, David Seaman, and Tony Bellew. They will split into eight teams of four and compete for team and singles titles. The event will be broadcast on ITV later this summer.
