Junior Whip Fishing

Whip fishing is the perfect starting point for beginners thanks to its straightforward, reel-free setup. Using a fixed-length pole, juniors can focus on essential angling techniques without the complexity of casting or winding in line. During this first session, participants will explore how whip fishing works, when and where it's most effective, and why it’s ideal for catching small freshwater species. The emphasis will be on keeping things simple—developing accuracy, timing, and an understanding of how to spot signs of fish movement near the float. By starting with an uncomplicated method, juniors can gain early success and build the confidence they need to enjoy the sport.

Understanding your kit is key to successful fishing. In this part of the session, juniors will be introduced to the basic gear needed for whip fishing. They’ll get hands-on with poles, pre-tied rigs, floats, split shot, and bait—all while learning the name and purpose of each component. Coaches will explain how to match hook size to target species and why barbless hooks are used for safety. Children will also be guided on how to set up their whip safely and avoid common issues like tangles. The aim is to help them feel comfortable handling their own equipment with growing independence.

With their tackle set and confidence building, juniors will begin learning how to use their whip effectively. They’ll be shown how to position their hands, swing the line out smoothly, and adjust the float to match water depth. Coaches will introduce bite spotting—teaching youngsters how to watch the float for signs of interest—and what to do when it dips or moves. There will be time for juniors to try these techniques in a supervised practice zone, giving them a chance to experience their first bites in a real fishing scenario. The focus is on enjoyment, steady progress, and early success.

Learning to bait a hook properly is one of the most important foundations in fishing. This week, juniors will be guided through the steps of preparing bait with care and confidence. Coaches will show how to handle different bait types, including maggots, worms, sweetcorn, and bread punch, explaining how each behaves in the water and how to present it effectively. The session will emphasize hooking bait securely to avoid it being lost mid-cast, while also ensuring it remains appealing to fish. Juniors will also be introduced to matching bait with appropriate hook sizes, helping them understand how to adapt their approach depending on what they want to catch. By the end, they’ll be confidently baiting their own hooks and recognising what makes good presentation.

Catching fish starts with getting them to your swim—and keeping them there. In this part of the session, juniors will explore different ways to attract fish using baiting strategies. Coaches will introduce the concept of loose feeding and explain why “little and often” works well when trying to draw in silverfish. Juniors will get hands-on practice with hand-fed baiting and learn how to use a catapult safely and accurately. The use of groundbait will also be discussed, with demonstrations of how to mix and apply it correctly. This session builds awareness of fish feeding patterns and teaches juniors how to think like an angler—reading the water, adjusting their tactics, and increasing their chances of landing more fish.

Few things are more exciting than seeing that float twitch or slide under the surface. In this session, juniors will sharpen their observation skills by learning how to recognise when a fish is showing interest in their bait. Coaches will demonstrate how float movements can vary—from gentle nods to sudden pulls—and what each might mean. Juniors will be taught to stay patient and alert, watching for those subtle signals that indicate a bite. Using sensitive floats helps build awareness, and this hands-on practice will increase their ability to react at the right moment.

Striking is the moment where reaction and timing come together. Juniors will learn how to lift their whip swiftly and smoothly to set the hook when a fish bites. Coaches will guide them in finding the right balance—striking too hard can break the line, while striking too softly might miss the fish altogether. Using practice drills and real-time float watching, juniors will develop muscle memory and technique. This builds confidence and ensures they are ready to respond calmly and effectively when the float disappears.

Once hooked, the fish must be brought in with care. This part of the session focuses on controlling the fish without causing stress or injury. Juniors will be shown how to apply steady pressure, adjust to the fish’s movements, and use the landing net to bring it in safely. Coaches will explain how different species fight and what signs to look for. The emphasis is on respect—handling fish gently and using the correct techniques to unhook and release them if necessary. By the end of this session, juniors will not only improve their catch rates but also their understanding of ethical fish care.

Landing a fish is the final step to success—and doing it safely is a skill in itself. In this session, juniors will be shown how to use a landing net properly, ensuring the fish is scooped rather than chased. Coaches will demonstrate the best approach: staying calm, waiting until the fish is ready, and gently guiding it into the net. Timing is key, and juniors will learn how to tell when the fish is close enough and tired enough to land. This practice will boost their confidence and reduce the risk of losing or harming the fish at the last moment.

Handling a fish correctly helps ensure its survival after capture. Juniors will learn to wet their hands before touching a fish, preventing damage to the slime coat that protects it from infection. Coaches will show how to cradle a fish securely while keeping it low to the ground and over a soft surface like an unhooking mat. Proper posture and grip will be emphasised to avoid dropping or stressing the fish. This lesson is all about respect for wildlife, teaching juniors how to be responsible anglers who care for the fish they catch.

To complete the process, juniors will learn how to remove a hook with care. Coaches will explain and demonstrate how to use a disgorger to safely unhook fish, minimising discomfort and damage. They will also be taught when it’s better to cut the line and leave the hook in place if it's deeply embedded. Safety—for both the angler and the fish—will be the top priority. With hands-on practice and patient instruction, juniors will leave this session feeling capable and compassionate, ready to manage their catches with care.