Angling Fair gets set to make a huge splash in Strabane this April

Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted to see the return this year of one of the most popular angling events in the country, as the North West Angling Fair launched today.

Strabane will play host once again to an array of the UK and Ireland's greatest fly-dressers, casters and top angling specialists, set against the stunning backdrop of the River Mourne.

The family friendly event is hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council in conjunction with the Loughs Agency, and is free for all to enjoy, taking place at Melvin Sports Complex on Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd April 2022, 11am - 5pm each day.

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Alderman Graham Warke, was in Strabane today for the launch, as the exciting programme of river based events was unveiled, including workshops in fly-tying, exhibition and trade stands, angling training and coaching and casting demonstrations.

Anyone new to fishing will have the opportunity to watch the best international fly fishing tackle producers, fly tying brands, fishing outfitters, professional casting demonstrations and expert fly fishing tuition. Experienced and professional coaches from the Foyle River Catchment Outdoor Group CIC (FROG) will also be on-hand to train new, novice and experienced young anglers in game, coarse and sea angling. If you want an introduction to fly fishing or help with your casting, there will be single handed and double handed instruction and advice delivered by APAGI qualified instructors Pauline McClenaghan and Ian Gamble.

Speaking at the launch, Alderman Warke said the event was a wonderful showcase of what the area has to offer in terms of adventure tourism. "I am delighted that the NW Angling Fair is back for a 5^th year, and that it has become so established as an event in the angling calendar. I think we all have a new appreciation of our natural surroundings and the benefits of supporting local tourism after the pandemic, and the Angling Fair is another opportunity to promote the beautiful River Mourne and surrounding area.

"What's so good about this event is that it's aimed at both novices and professionals and gives everyone a chance to learn more about fishing at a variety of levels. I'm really looking forward to trying it out with the benefit of some expert tuition."

Festival and Events Manager with Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey said: "I am delighted to see the high calibre of experts taking part in this year's event. Some of the biggest names in the angling world will be in attendance and there is a wide range of activities and demonstrations to choose from.

"The Loughs Agency are excited to bring the FROG Hub this year, which will help inspire the next generation of anglers through short workshops covering casting, netting, fish identification, rover invertebrates, bait, lures, fly tying and safety and enable participants to achieve the CAST Angling Starter certificate."

While the Fair is free, the exhibition area will allow the public an opportunity to check out equipment from a wide range of local traders including Rodgers Fishing Tackle, Ardaire Springs Angling Centre, River Mourne Gun and Tackle and The Great Outdoors.
The ever popular Fly Tyers Row area will offer visitors the chance to watch fly dressers practice their craft and will include demonstrations from acclaimed tiers Arthur Greenwood, Joe Stitt and Brendan Garland, to name but a few.
The full line up for the North West Angling Fair is available to view at www.derrystrabane.com/anglingfair.