Welcome to the RNC Angling Club
Located at the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC)
On this site - an introduction to the RNC Angling Club, frequently asked questions section, and various examples of visually impaired angling experiences to show how simple it is to start.
Barry Morris is Lead Project Officer for Enrichment Support at RNC, and has created the RNC Angling Club in partnership with Dreamstore UK and the British Disabled Angling Association.
Having been a keen angler for over 40 years, and having taken a few learners fishing, I decided that it would be good to learn how to teach fishing to others. In 2006 I attended the Dreamstore Academy at Pershore College, and qualified as a Level 2 coarse angling coach, after which I was able to obtain a full coach Licence.
I decided that I would like to specialise in angling for the visually impaired (VI), as it seemed as if no-one was else was taking a lead in this area. Through this idea, I became involved with the British Disabled Angling Association and Dreamstore UK. These provided me with new fishing kit from Browning, and a modest budget from Dreamstore UK to pay for our basic costs; so that any visually impaired learners, or staff, wanting to learn to fish, can do so for free. Through the Environment Agency we have been able to secure free rod licences for our activity.
Thanks to Dreamstore, we have been able to create this website, to extend our ability to give help, advice, and tips for VI anglers across the country.
RNC and the BDAA receive lots of enquiries from social services, RNIB and the public about how to start or where to get help. So our website, and especially the Frequently Asked Questions section, will hopefully provide valuable information and inspiration for all VI anglers and their helpers.
We have several learners at the College who are regular anglers and many more waiting to have a go. I have been joined in the RNC Angling Club by Terry Harding, who assists me with some sessions, so we can take more learners on these occasions. With his expertise in fly fishing, we are hoping to expand next spring.
Angling is a wonderful enrichment activity. The wide range of age groups passing through the college means we have extended Every Child Matters to Every Person Matters. Angling fulfils every aspect of EPM, as well as providing a recreational activity that learners can continue as a pastime after leaving the College. I would love to coach the first VI angler to be part of a National Angling Team …Dreamstore's help could ensure my ambition is fulfilled!
