North West Angling Fair to return bigger and better

Derry City and Strabane District Council have marked the launch of the North West Angling Fair by promising it will be the best yet.

The fair will return on Saturday 4^th and Sunday 5^th of April this year, running from 11am-5pm each day. Now in its fifth year, the Angling Fair will take place in the Melvin Sports Complex in Strabane.

Fishing enthusiasts across the North West region are in for a real treat with one of the top angling fairs which brings together a host of the UK and Ireland’s greatest fly-dressers, casters and top angling specialists to the spectacular setting of the River Mourne in the fishing heart of the North West.

Klaus Fimor, one of the key world-renowned figures in fly-casting, will take part in the fair for the first time this year. His knowledge of both single and double-handed rods, lines and casting techniques has led to him working as Head of Research and Development for Loop Tackle Design.

Klaus will be joined on the list of specialist casting demonstrators by three-time World Spey Casting champion Scott McKenzie and world champion Andrew Toft – who is one of only a few master qualified instructors from Scotland – as well as Conor Arnolds, Stevie Munn and Mark Patterson, amongst others.

There will also be a Fly Casting Programme/Clinic where single-handed and double-handed instruction and advice will be provided by expert APAGI qualified instructors Pauline McClenaghan and Ian Gamble.

Another new addition to this year’s event is the Amateur Spey Casting Competition, alongside the usual family activities and exhibition hall.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Michaela Boyle, said that the event keeps going from strength to strength.

“The North West Angling Fair is now a staple part of our annual calendar of events within the District, and this year promises to be the biggest and best yet.

“The whole event is a fantastic occasion for anglers and fishing enthusiasts from across the region who have the chance to watch the best international fly-fishing tackle producers, fly-tying brands, fishing outfitters and professional casting demonstrations.

“It’s also a brilliant way for amateurs to learn more about angling and fishing, and to develop their knowledge through those who are experts in the field – and we have some exceptional guests already scheduled to take part.”

For more information on the North West Angling Fair, visit https://www.derrystrabane.com/Subsites/Angling-Fair/Angling-2020.