Junior Fishing Coaching Club
Summerhayes Juniors

Inspiring the Next Generation of Anglers

Welcome to Summerhayes Juniors, where young anglers embark on an exciting journey into the world of fishing! Our fun, educational, and hands-on coaching sessions provide children with the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to become responsible and skilled anglers.

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Angling for All – Learn, Improve & Enjoy Fishing Together!

Courses for Juniors and Families to Build Skills & Confidence

Fishing is a sport for all ages, and at Summerhayes Juniors, we’re here to help anglers of every skill level progress and enjoy their time on the water. While our courses are designed to develop junior anglers, we encourage family participation, with parents, guardians, or older family members joining in to create shared learning experiences. This not only strengthens fishing skills but also enhances opportunities for practice beyond our sessions.

Our carefully designed courses and qualifications, developed by experts from Fishwish and the Angling Trust, provide structured learning across a variety of angling disciplines. Recognizing that everyone has different schedules and interests, we offer short modular courses to fit your lifestyle.

Explore Our Upcoming Fishing Courses

Hands-on sessions designed for all skill levels — learn, improve, and enjoy the water.

Whether you're brand new to fishing or looking to develop advanced techniques, our expert-led courses offer something for everyone. From feeder fishing to pole mastery, each session is packed with practical guidance, friendly coaching, and real-time experience on the bank. Places fill quickly — secure your spot today and start your next angling adventure.

Winter Angling Indoor Sessions – Starting October!
Starts: 29th Oct 2025

Winter Angling Indoor Sessions – Starting October!

Keep fishing alive this winter with our Junior Winter Angling Indoor Programme! Running from 29th October 2025 to April 2026 (every Wednesday, 4:30–6:30pm), these fun, educational sessions cover every aspect of the sport – from making your own rigs and floats to learning about pole, feeder, whip, sea fishing and even piking. With hands-on workshops, guest speakers, games, and plenty of angling knowledge, juniors will build confidence and skills ready for the new season. Perfect for beginners and experienced young anglers alike. 
Junior Whip Fishing Course – A Fun and Educational Experience for Young Anglers!
Starts: 1st Apr 2026

Junior Whip Fishing Course – A Fun and Educational Experience for Young Anglers!

This exciting 5-week Junior Whip Fishing Course is designed to introduce young anglers to the world of fishing in a safe, structured, and enjoyable environment. Our expert coaches will guide children through the fundamental techniques of whip fishing, helping them build confidence, skills, and a deeper appreciation for the sport.Each session lasts 2 hours and includes:Warm-up Activities – Fun and engaging exercises to get startedPractical Fishing Lessons – Hands-on experience using real fishing gear Safety Guidance – Learning the best practices for safe and responsible fishingQ&A and Reflection – A chance to discuss and reinforce the day’s learningAt the end of the course, every child will receive a Certificate of Participation, and in Week 5, they’ll get to showcase their skills in a friendly fishing match!
Junior Waggler Fishing Course – Boost Accuracy, Control Floats, and Catch Silvers
Starts: 6th May 2026

Junior Waggler Fishing Course – Boost Accuracy, Control Floats, and Catch Silvers

This engaging 4-week course is designed to introduce junior anglers to the exciting world of waggler fishing, a popular method for catching silverfish such as roach, rudd, and skimmers. Whether children are brand new to fishing or looking to develop specific float fishing skills, this course provides a step-by-step approach to learning the art of waggler angling in a supportive, hands-on environment.Throughout the four weeks, juniors will focus on building key skills such as casting accuracy, float control, bite detection, and playing and landing fish. Each session is carefully structured to balance education with enjoyment, combining interactive warm-up activities, guided practical fishing time, and end-of-session reflection to reinforce what they’ve learned.Sessions last 2 hours and are delivered by experienced coaches who provide individual support, encouragement, and supervision. From learning about tackle and setting up rigs, to reading float movements and handling fish safely, every child will gain confidence, knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for angling.By the end of the course, juniors will not only understand the mechanics of waggler fishing but will also be able to apply their skills during a friendly match — celebrating their progress in a fun, inclusive atmosphere.
4-Week Pole Fishing Adventure
Starts: 3rd Jun 2026

4-Week Pole Fishing Adventure

This action-packed 4-week course is designed to help juniors take their angling to the next level using pole fishing—an accurate, hands-on technique perfect for younger anglers. Across four structured sessions, juniors will explore key pole fishing fundamentals, from setting up equipment and feeding swims, to choosing rigs and handling fish with care.With plenty of practical guidance, they’ll gradually build up their confidence and knowledge. By the end of the programme, they’ll be able to fish independently using pole gear and put their skills to the test during a friendly final session and skills-based mini assessment.Whether they’re brand new to pole fishing or looking to improve, this course provides a safe, fun, and focused way to level up their technique—and celebrate their achievements with a certificate to take home!
5-Week Feeder Fishing Course
Starts: 1st Jul 2026

5-Week Feeder Fishing Course

This 5-week course introduces juniors to feeder fishing, covering essential techniques, tackle setup, feeding strategies, casting accuracy, and fish-handling skills. The course is designed to build confidence and capability in using both method and cage feeders. Juniors will progress from basic rig setup to full fishing practice, concluding with a practical assessment and certificate of completion.
4-Week In-Depth Pole Fishing Course
Starts: 5th Aug 2026

4-Week In-Depth Pole Fishing Course

This structured 4-week course is designed for juniors who already have a basic understanding of pole fishing and are ready to take their skills to the next level. Focusing on three specialised techniques—margin fishing, shallow fishing, and paste fishing—this course teaches juniors how to target larger carp more effectively using pole setups. Each week builds on the previous session, combining theory, hands-on rig work, feeding strategy, and fish-handling skills. The final session brings all techniques together in a fully practical fishing experience, capped with an assessment and certificate of completion.
4-Week Bomb & Ledger Fishing Course
Starts: 2nd Sep 2026

4-Week Bomb & Ledger Fishing Course

This 4-week course introduces juniors to the fundamentals and variations of bomb and ledger fishing—key techniques for catching larger fish near the lakebed. Across the four weeks, participants will explore the differences between bomb and feeder fishing, practice casting with accuracy, build specialist rigs such as hair rigs, and develop a deeper understanding of baiting strategies. The course culminates in a practical session and assessment to consolidate all learning, equipping young anglers with the confidence to fish independently using ledger tactics.
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Summerhayes Juniors is a dedicated junior angling club based in Somerset, offering coaching, matches, and outdoor learning for children and young people aged 6–18. We help beginners and experienced juniors develop fishing skills, build confidence, and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and supportive environment.

  • Children as young as 4 can join our coaching sessions. We welcome complete beginners through to experienced juniors who want to develop their match fishing skills. 

  • No — we provide all the basic equipment needed for beginners. As juniors progress, they may want their own tackle for matches, but it isn’t required to start. 

  • Yes. All sessions are supervised by qualified coaches and trained volunteers. We follow strict safeguarding policies, use safe equipment such as barbless hooks, and ensure every venue is risk assessed. 

  • Children under 13 do not need a licence. From ages 13–16, juniors need a free Environment Agency Junior Licence, which is quick and easy to apply for. We can provide guidance for parents if needed. 

  • Our main coaching sessions run every Wednesday evening 4.30pm - 6.30pm at Summerhayes Fisheries in Bridgwater, with additional courses and events throughout the year. 

  • Absolutely. Fishing is one of the most inclusive sports, and we have supported many juniors with autism, ADHD, sensory needs, and other challenges. The calm, structured environment of fishing is perfect for children who may not enjoy traditional sports.

  • We keep costs as low as possible so fishing is accessible to all. Many of our sessions are free or heavily subsidised thanks to the support of local partners, sponsors, and funding. 

  • Children will learn the basics of fishing step by step, including how to set up a rod or pole, bait a hook, cast, and safely land fish. Sessions also cover fish care, water safety, and respect for the environment. 

  • Yes, Parents are required to stay and watch, and many enjoy relaxing by the water while their child takes part.

  • We cover a variety of fishing methods including pole fishing, feeder fishing, waggler fishing, and ledger/bomb fishing. This gives juniors a well-rounded introduction to different styles. 

  • Yes! Once confident, juniors can enter friendly club matches. Competitions are a fun way to learn new skills and meet other anglers. Some of our juniors have gone on to compete at county and even international level.

  • Simply complete our Parental Consent Form and come along to one of our sessions. Beginners are always welcome.

  • The club is run by a team of passionate volunteers and qualified angling coaches. Our lead coach, Gavin Davey, has years of experience working with juniors and is committed to making fishing fun, safe, and accessible for everyone.

  • We recommend comfortable clothes, waterproofs, a drink, and a snack. All fishing tackle is provided for beginners. 

  • Yes — fishing is widely recognised as a fantastic activity for wellbeing. It provides calmness, reduces stress, and builds confidence in children who may struggle with traditional sports or school environments. 

  • Yes. We partner with schools, SASP, the Angling Trust, and local organisations to provide group sessions, enrichment activities, and special projects that bring more children into fishing. 

What Parents & Juniors Say

Don’t just take our word for it—hear from the parents and young anglers who have experienced the fun, learning, and excitement of our coaching sessions! From building confidence to mastering new skills, our courses leave a lasting impact both on and off the water. See what others have to say about their journey with Summerhayes Juniors!

More Than Just Fishing – A Fantastic Learning Experience

"I brought my grandson along, and it was one of the best experiences we’ve had together. The sessions don’t just teach fishing—they teach patience, respect for nature, and perseverance. A brilliant initiative for kids of all ages!"

— David Collins, Grandparent

Brilliant Coaching & Supportive Atmosphere

"The level of support and encouragement at Summerhayes Juniors is fantastic. My son struggles with confidence in new activities, but the coaches made him feel comfortable and capable. Now, he’s excited about every session and wants to keep learning more!"

— Lucy Patterson, Parent

A Great Way to Learn & Make Friends

"I had so much fun at Summerhayes Juniors! The coaches taught me how to bait my hook and land a fish properly. I even made new friends, and now we go fishing together on weekends. Can’t wait for the next course!"

— E Rogers, Junior Angler

Confidence & Skills That Will Last a Lifetime

"My daughter had never fished before, but after just a few sessions, she was catching fish like a pro! The structured learning and friendly environment made all the difference. She’s now hooked on fishing (pun intended) and can’t wait to come back next season!"

— Mark Davis, Parent

Fantastic Experience for Young Anglers!

"My son absolutely loved his time at Summerhayes Juniors! The coaches were amazing—so patient and encouraging. He’s learned so much about fishing, and now he’s teaching me a thing or two! Highly recommend it to any parent looking for a fun and educational outdoor activity for their child."

— Sarah Thompson, Parent
Support the Next Generation of Anglers

Make a Donation & Help Young Anglers Thrive!

Fishing is an incredible hobby, but we all know that getting started can be expensive—especially for young anglers. At Summerhayes Juniors, we’re committed to providing affordable and accessible fishing opportunities for children, but we need your help!

Do you have any unused or old fishing tackle gathering dust? Whether it’s rods, reels, nets, bait tubs, or accessories, your donation could make a huge difference in helping a child learn, grow, and enjoy the sport. Every piece of donated equipment allows us to introduce more juniors to fishing, making it easier for them to participate without financial barriers.

If you’d like to contribute, get in touch with us today—every donation, big or small, helps to inspire the next generation of anglers!

Donate Your Tackle Today

OUR LATEST

BLOGS & GUIDES

Explore the latest blogs and guides for young anglers, filled with tips, tricks, and expert advice.

Angling Allies

Club Supporters & Partners

Our club is fortunate to have the backing of several key supporters and partners who help us continue growing and providing opportunities for anglers of all ages. While they may not be official sponsors, their contributions, expertise, and resources play a vital role in supporting our community.

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