Q1: Who is Robin Elwes, please introduce yourself to our readers?

 I’m an experienced angling coach at The Sportfish Game Fishing Centre, where I have been coaching since 1987. I grew up in London and Worcestershire and was fortunate enough to spend lots of time on the River Test, along with other lakes and rivers in my youth.

Q2: How did you become interested in fishing/Who taught you to fish?
I became interested in fishing from a very early age, around 3 or 4. My mother and grandfather taught me how to fish and I experienced many happy fishing days during my holidays. Whilst I don’t remember the first time I picked up a fishing rod, I know it had an everlasting effect on my life, from fishing constantly on the River Test with my grandfather to practising back home in Worcester. From this, I developed further fishing skills and eventually instructing qualifications whilst working with World Champion and record-breaking angler Simon Gawesworth and his father, leading expert and author in angling, John Gawesworth in Devon. I eventually became an AAPGAI Instructor as well as receiving NAC and REFFIS qualifications. (AAPGAI refers to the Association of Advanced Professional Game Angling Instructors, NAC is the National Anglers Council and REFFIS stands for Register of Experienced Fly-Fishing Instructors and Schools.)



Q3:What is your favourite part about Fly fishing?
A: The thrill of the chase when trying to catch a fish, the excitement you get when preparing for a trip and the solitude you can have from the outing but also the memories made on those with friends. Being out and about in nature and the stories you’re able to tell, each one a different adventure.

Q4:How did you get to where you are today?

It was down to sheer passion for the sport, I was keen to learn as much as I could and began working on a trout farm to build my knowledge. From this, I was able to go on countless trips both within the UK and around the world, meeting new people and experiencing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. My experience then led me to start my career with the Farlows group, firstly as a sales assistant at the renowned fishing and country sporting Farlows Pall Mall store, to then starting my role as an instructor with Farlows’ sister brand Sportfish, based at the Sportfish Game Fishing Centre in Reading.

Q5:What does a normal day at the game fishing centre look like?
Beginning at 9 am, a normal day consists of fishing lessons with both novices and those who are already avid anglers but looking to develop their skills. It’s always lovely meeting new people and discussing the latest fishing and environmental news, along with seeing and processing all the exciting new stock.

Q6: How has the Fishing industry changed? 
Whilst the pursuit has stayed the same, the technology has become more advanced, providing easier methods and techniques to anglers. The rise of social media has made it more popular, highlighting the benefits it has on your mental and physical wellbeing, along with illustrating how accessible fishing is, not to mention the increase in fishing locations and more fly-fishing species.

Q7: Where should someone start, if they wanted to learn more about the fishing industry?
First start by looking at different locations for fishing and familiarise yourself with the different landscapes and species. Experience in sales and manufacturing of the equipment will boost your knowledge of the business side of the sport, along with learning about farming and the conservation aspects.

Q8: Was it an instant success or was there a big learning curve along the way?
No, it has taken time, a professional approach, and the ability to think broadly and creatively. With this sport and the job, I don’t think I’ll ever stop learning or building on my skills.

Q9: What top 3 skills does a fly fishing instructor need?

-  Communicate well with other anglers.

-  Have patience.

- Listen to your peers.

Q10: If you could give one piece of advice to an inspiring fly-fishing instructor, what would it be?
Don’t get disheartened, watch, listen, learn, and enjoy the ride. Keep going and find ways that work for you, it doesn’t always have to be the same as what others are doing.