I have no fishing experience, can I still come along? 

Yes you can. Cancer & Pisces is open to everyone - whether you are a complete novice or an old-hand. Our professional guides and coaches are on hand to take you through everything from the very basics to fine tuning your skills. In fact, our guides love teaching beginners as there is joy in seeing the progress students can make.

Do I need my own fishing equipment?

We provide all of the fishing equipment: rods, reels, lines, flies, nets & even things you never knew you needed.

What do I need to bring?

You just need to bring yourself! You will need a cap and some glasses or sunglasses - polarized sunglasses are the best for fishing. You will also need a refillable water bottle (we can provide an alternative if you don't have one available). You will need to wear weather appropriate clothing for the Great British Weather! A waterproof jacket for rainy days and something long sleeved and loose fitting for hot days. You will also need appropriate footwear - we recommend sturdy trainers, walking boots, stout shoes or wellies.

What if the weather is adverse?

Here in the UK and we are nothing if not prepared. This is why we recommend suitable clothing for the day's forecast, plus wet weather gear. The only weather that can stop us is lightning, in which case we will have something alternative in place until the storm passes.

Do I have to bring someone?

No, you don't have to bring a companion if you don't want to. Some people find peace and solitude on the water and this is absolutely fine. Many of our members come along solo. The day can also be as social as you would like to make it, it can be a great way to meet other people and bond over a new or an existing hobby. You could meet other people that share your cancer experience and many people find this quite therapeutic. Many of our members have made friendships that go beyond Cancer & Pisces.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes you can. Each member is able to bring a companion - this can be anyone you want - friend, family member, work colleague, carer. There is no upper or lower age limit so if you are wondering whether you can bring your child or grandchild, please do! Our guides are equipped to teach children as well as adults. It is a great way to bond with children and find a common hobby.

How much does it cost?

All the equipment, flies and lines are provided free of charge. We also serve a free buffet lunch. All of our venues are also lucky enough to have free on-site parking. 

You are legally required to have a fishing licence - please visit the Gov website to purchase one. These are £7.50 for a day licence or you can select an annual licence if you are a regular angler.

If you wish to keep a fish that you have caught at our Holbury Lane venue, there is a £10-£15 charge, payable to the site manager on exit.

What happens on the day?

• Arrival - Each venue has a slightly different set up, but on arrival, one of our friendly hosts will welcome you and you can settle in with a tea or coffee and a biscuit or two - or lunch if you have booked the afternoon session. 

• Getting Started - You'll be asked to sign a health & safety disclaimer, go through a group health and safety talk and then you'll be assigned a guide - suited to your needs. There will be a casting lesson and then you will get to go on the water to (hopefully!) catch a fish! 

• When the session finishes - Once the session is finished, depending on whether you have booked a morning or afternoon session, you'll be taken back to the starting point. All the equipment will be collected and you can help yourself to the buffet lunch or you can make your way home.