Prof Rickards' article....

Some interesting points raised.

1. Could it be that each and every (angling) body would need to dissolve itself and form ONE and only ONE all encompassing governing body?

2. Would the key players in each of the current organisations be prepared to step down for the greater good?

3.Would 1 body be enough for the many different sub divisions within the sport?

4. Does anyone really care?

Yes, no, no and no I say!

Discuss!

I think we would all care if it came to a real battle against the antis or a government that was trying to enforce a ban. We would care if we had to fight against any really big issue when all we can do at present is fight against each other as different organisations vie for power.

We only don't care while we wallow in the apparent safety that too many of us take for granted.

We all care, but depend on other people to do the work.

It didnt happen with lead shot though Graham, and I am sure there are plenty of other local issues/bans etc that have already gone against us, which havent hit the national (angling) press.

If we were faced with a serious threat, as things stand now, we would take that long to mobilise that we would probably end up coming second!

One governing body is never going to be able to function whilst ever angling is structured the way it is at grass roots level. Too many conflicts of interest, even on a local basis.
Think about why your average Joe joins his local club commitee (and where he goes from there). It isn't to protect the sport as a whole, it's to look after his own selfish interests.

Half the N.F.A. reps in the country would see Livebaiting banned for no other reason than ignorance and on the other hand an awefull lot of specialist anglers would gladly see an end to Keepnets. This conflict (ignorance) hasn't changed for decades. The only difference is there is an apparent power swing and there are some sphincters pinching within the N.F.A at the present time. That is why the teddy is being thrown out and I think that is clear for all to see.
This issue is only ever going to be resolved if it is tackled on a local basis though on the other hand it might occur as a natural progression.
The lack of small fish(cormorants)in our rivers and the increase in facilities(carp puddles) are issues which have resulted in a lot less friction in my area. This harmony seems to have evolved even more in the south of the country. The trouble is when it gets to the point where we have nothing to fight over the damage may be irrepairable.

By the way I've just started to log onto this site. Absolutely first class. it's nice to see that Barry is still doing his thing. His book on tench was probably one of the primary reasons why I am an angler today.
Just read 'Fishers of the Green roads'. Couldn't put it down infact I stayed awake and finished it during the night. I grew up in roughly the same place as 'Baz' and reading the book was like re-living my own childhood. Thank you Barry you brought a tear or two to my eyes.