#Angling - Ireland’s top mentalist - and passionate angler - Keith Barry is encouraging kids of all ages to get hooked on angling during Fisheries Awareness Week 2013.
Angling events for newcomers to the sport will continue at coastal and inland venues across the country till Sunday 19 May.
This is the fifth year of Fisheries Awareness Week, with 50 events in 16 counties dedicated to sea angling, pike angling, trout angling, coarse angling and salmon angling as well as family fun days, school days and more.
Minister Fergus O’Dowd heaped praise on Keith Barry for his involvement in the week. “It’s no surprise Keith loves angling as who could fail to be hypnotised by the magic of this absorbing activity?” he said.
“Keith has a real love of angling and a genuine interest in the outdoors. This passion really shines through when he is sharing is love of angling with the next generation.”
Fisheries Awareness Week aims to encourage youths and adults alike to take up the pastime of angling but also works with existing anglers to heighten their awareness of the environment.
The event is run by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) in conjunction with fishing clubs, charter boat skippers and private fishery owners.
"Fisheries Awareness Week offers loads of opportunities for people, young and old, to get out on the water and go fishing," said IFI's Suzanne Campion. "Everyone from experts to complete novices are welcome but we hope that as a result of the week more people will take up angling as a pastime.”
Events are free and open to all, with family fun a priority. Check out events in your area by logging on to www.faw.ie.
