Waggler Fishing

To kick things off, juniors will be introduced to waggler fishing—a popular float method where the float is attached bottom-only to the line. Coaches will explain how the float behaves in the water, why it’s ideal for targeting surface and mid-depth feeders, and when this method is most effective for catching species like roach and rudd.

This session helps children familiarise themselves with key tackle items. They'll learn about float rods (typically 10–12 feet), fixed-spool reels, the correct line strength for silverfish, and the importance of using barbless hooks. With support from coaches, juniors will build their own float rig step by step and understand the purpose of each part.

Juniors will begin learning how to cast accurately using an overhead or side cast. Coaches will guide them through safe casting zones and reinforce awareness of their surroundings. The focus will be on control, timing, and building the confidence to cast to a target without tangling or overcasting.

Building on their basic casting technique, juniors will now focus on improving accuracy and consistency. Coaches will set up fun challenges using floating markers or bank-based targets, encouraging participants to cast with purpose. The session helps sharpen control while keeping practice enjoyable and engaging.

This session introduces the importance of controlling the line between the rod tip and the float. Juniors will practice lifting and repositioning the line to reduce drag—using skills like “mending” the line or repositioning the rod to improve bait presentation and prevent the float from being pulled unnaturally.

Anglers often face moving water, breeze, or surface drift. In this segment, juniors will learn how these conditions influence their float’s behaviour. Coaches will demonstrate how to adjust casting angles, change shot patterns, or reposition their setup to maintain natural bait movement. By experimenting directly on the water, juniors will begin thinking like problem-solving anglers.

This week, juniors will learn to interpret what their float is telling them. From gentle dips to sharp lift bites and slow glides under, each movement gives clues about fish behaviour below the surface. Coaches will help children recognise the difference between genuine takes and false alarms caused by line drag or current.

Juniors will practice their striking technique using soft-tipped setups or training floats. The goal is to strike with just enough power—firm but controlled. Coaches will walk them through common mistakes like striking too hard or too soon, helping them stay relaxed and focused when the float moves.

Children will start linking float activity with how different fish feed. They’ll observe how roach might give quick taps while skimmers create slow, deliberate movement. This part of the session encourages observation and patience, helping young anglers build the intuition needed for effective, enjoyable fishing.

This session teaches juniors how to stay calm and in command once a fish is hooked. They'll learn to maintain steady pressure, adjust their reel’s drag, and use gentle rod movements to guide fish away from obstacles. Coaches will walk them through the importance of patience and avoiding sudden jerks that can lead to lost catches.

Children will be shown how to lead fish calmly toward the net, scoop safely from below, and lift without harm. The session also covers essential fish care—placing fish on soft mats, handling them with wet hands, and removing hooks with disgorgers. These skills help juniors become responsible anglers who treat their catch with care and respect.