New Fishing Project Aims to Boost Men’s Mental Health

“Fishing is about more than catching fish” – this perspective is shared by two anglers who have launched a new initiative focused on mental health for men who enjoy the sport. The Fish On! project was established by the duo, known collectively as Youtubers Snagged Bro, in collaboration with Black Country community organisation Bostin’ Creative. Its goal is to demonstrate how engaging in fishing and physical activity can enhance overall wellbeing. A brief film designed to raise awareness of the project, which received support from the council-led Crowdfund Walsall, recently had its premiere at Walsall Arena. Walsall borough councillor Gary Flint expressed that the authority was “delighted” to have provided support for a project enabling men to participate in fishing and improve their mental health. He further stated, “It is great to support something with such a wide reach into the heart of our communities and we look forward to finding out where this inspirational project may lead.” The angling-themed Youtube channel Snagged Bro features friends and content creators Tom Synnott-Bell and Sean Edwards, who have been sharing fishing videos for approximately seven years. The pair collaborated with Bostin Creative, an organization founded by Mr Synnott-Bell’s wife, Emily Synnott-Bell Summers, to develop the Fish On! project. This initiative brings men together to fish and converse, having successfully raised more than £9,000 for the scheme through crowdfunding. The group issued an appeal for men to join the initiative after receiving messages from individuals who described fishing as a “life-changing pastime.” One participant shared, “‘[The project] has saved me… I was way down and now I am a lot better.” Mr Synnott-Bell informed BBC Radio WM that fishing serves as an “escape.” He remarked, “You walk on to a canal, and it’s a whole new world.” On 20 November, more than 150 people attended the film’s screening, which showcased club members from various age groups and backgrounds. Mr Synnott-Bell noted that the support for the initiative had been overwhelming. Regarding the film’s premiere, he added, “It was just a real good vibe. It felt like everyone in the room was completely behind it and I can’t wait to grow this project as big as possible.” “Everyone was just applauding, cheering.” Mr Edwards mentioned that the initial concept for setting up a Youtube channel stemmed from their desire to become a “better angler.” He commented, “People watch our videos… It’s infectious, I think everybody should give it a try.” He also indicated that his own mental and physical health had benefited from the recreational activity. The group intends to continue expanding the initiative and advocating for men’s mental health. Mrs Synnott-Bell Summers stated, “We thought ‘let’s go for it and see first of all if we could raise some awareness’… and we think it’s going to turn into something really special.” Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.