Being a member of Wimborne & District Angling Club is about more than simply having permission to fish our waters. It means being part of society, a community, sharing our fisheries with others and helping to look after the places we all enjoy.
We are fortunate to have access to some excellent fishing, and maintaining that privilege depends on everyone playing their part. Good fishery management isn't just about stocking fish, maintaining banks or looking after the water. It also relies on members behaving responsibly, respecting the rules and making life as straightforward as possible for our bailiffs and fellow anglers.
Sometimes, it's the simplest things that make the biggest difference.
ALWAYS…Carry Your Proof of Membership
One of the most important things every member can do is carry their membership identification and proof of membership whenever they go fishing.
Our bailiffs give up their own time to help protect and manage our fisheries. Part of their responsibility is to establish that everyone fishing has the appropriate permission to be there. Unfortunately, this can become very difficult when anglers are unable to produce identification or evidence of their membership.
A bailiff can’t be expected to recognise every member personally, and simply saying that you belong to the club isn't enough. Having your membership card or other accepted proof with you makes the process quick, straightforward and respectful for everyone.
Please don't wait to be asked before checking that you have it with you. Make it part of your normal fishing routine, just as you would check that you have your rod, reel and fly box.
It’s not much to ask, but it helps our harrd working bailiffs do their job effectively and more easily.
A Special Word About Juniors and Minors
We are particularly keen to encourage younger people to enjoy angling. Introducing juniors to fishing helps develop patience, confidence, an appreciation of nature and respect for the environment and each other. They are the most important part of the club's future, and we want them to feel welcome and supported. However, younger membership also comes with responsibilities, both for the junior angler and the adult responsible for them.
All junior members should carry their membership identification and proof of membership when fishing, just like adult members. Parents and guardians should make sure that young anglers understand the importance of this and are properly prepared before setting off for the water.
It is also essential to understand the club's rules regarding minors.
Minors are not permitted to fish without a responsible adult present at all times.
This is not an optional guideline or something that can be interpreted differently from one visit to another. A responsible adult must remain present throughout the fishing session. It is the responsibility of parents, guardians and accompanying adults to ensure that this requirement is followed.
This rule is there for the safety and welfare of young anglers, as well as the proper supervision and management of our fisheries. Please do not assume that a minor can fish independently simply because they are confident, experienced or familiar with the venue.
We want young people to enjoy their fishing, learn good habits and develop into responsible anglers. Proper supervision is an important part of making this possible.
Our Bailiffs Deserve Our Support
Our bailiffs play a valuable role in protecting the club's waters and ensuring that our rules are followed. They are not there to make life difficult for members. Their job is to help maintain a fair and properly managed fishery for everyone.
When a bailiff approaches you, please be polite, cooperative and ready to show your membership identification and any required documentation. A friendly exchange and a quick check should be all that is needed.
Without the cooperation of members, carrying out these checks becomes much harder than it needs to be. It also takes up valuable time that could be better spent looking after the fisheries. Please remember that bailiffs are carrying out an important club responsibility, and they deserve the courtesy, rrespect and support of all members.
A Better Experience for Everyone
The rules are not there to create restrictions. They exist to protect our fisheries, support responsible angling and ensure that everyone who has paid for membership can enjoy the facilities fairly and SAFELY.
When members carry their proof of membership, follow the rules and cooperate with bailiffs, it helps prevent misunderstandings and makes the angling experience more pleasant.
It also helps protect the club against unauthorised fishing, supports the work of our volunteers and gives everyone greater confidence that the rules are being applied consistently and fairly.
Whether you are a long-standing member, a newcomer, a junior or an accompanying parent, the principle is exactly the same: we all have a part to play.
A Simple Request from WDAC
So, before your next fishing trip, please take a moment to check that you have your membership identification and proof of membership with you. If you are taking a junior or minor fishing, make sure the supervision requirements are understood and followed.
These things can make a huge difference to your day and the smooth running of the club.
WDAC belongs to its members. By showing a little consideration, supporting our bailiffs and taking responsibility for our own actions, we can help make our fisheries better, safer and fairer places for everyone.
Good fishing starts with good angling – and good angling starts with responsibility.