Fishing surges after coronavirus lockdown is eased, angling licence figures show

mirror.co.uk:

Lockdown-weary Britons reached for their fishing rods after coronavirus restrictions were lifted, figures show today. Anglers desperate to escape virtual house arrest hung “gone fishing” signs on their front doors as they grabbed their bait and hooks and headed for the nearest lake or river.

Environment Agency statistics reveal a huge surge in sales of fishing licences after the Government relaxed curbs on outdoor activities.

More than 100,000 extra people are fishing, with a 17% surge in rod licence sales compared with the same time last year. Supporters say the hobby is a perfect way to flee the intense boredom of confinement while maintaining social-distancing and boosting mental health while perched on a riverbank or lake shore.