LOCAL carp specialist shop, Westbury Tackle, has seen a surge in interest in fishing during the lockdown period.
With restrictions placed on indoor activities, more and more people have looked to the outdoors to entertain themselves – and whilst some former anglers have been inspired to pick up their rods again, others have decided to try their hand at fishing for the first time.
Owner of Westbury Tackle on Maristow Street, Phil Chester, told White Horse News, “I have very much seen a rise in interest in fishing. The lockdown has proved to be excellent for the fisheries industry.
“I have had people come into the shop who haven’t fished for 20 years wanting to get back into it, and new customers who are interested in starting a new hobby.
“I can understand why people are wanting to try fishing – for me what I enjoy most about fishing is being outdoors, surrounded by wildlife. I also do a lot of night sessions too – so there’s the camping element to it as well. And with the restrictions we had in place during lockdown – more people have an appreciation for the outdoors and want to get out amongst it.
“Since lockdown it has been really busy – I had to close for two months because of lockdown restrictions, but was open again in May, once fisheries were allowed to re-open – and since then I have been beating my sales targets, which is great.”
Westbury Tackle opened its doors for the first time nine months ago in 2019, offering customers a full range of carp baits, end line tackle and clothing, pike and sea fishing equipment, and live and frozen baits.
But also on offer at Westbury Tackle is Phil’s expertise. Phil said, “I’m Westbury born and bred and I know the area well, and I’ve been fishing all my life, so I can give advice on local waters, and offer advice on how to set up tackle, and answer any other fishing questions people might have.
“I also have 10 years’ experience of sea fishing – so I can give advice to anyone interested in this.
“We are now stocking a new and exclusive range of sea fishing tackle called Fish & Fin.
“We are the only shop in the country, besides Premier Angling in Keynsham, to stock this range. Angling Times has featured the new range – and seasoned anglers will have heard of the publication.”
Westbury Tackle is open Tuesday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm; and Saturday 9am to 4pm. The shop is closed on Monday and Sunday – so Phil has an opportunity to go fishing himself!
For more information call 01373 228410 or visit the website: www.westburytackle.com
