Casting Away Troubles: Tight Lines CIC and the Healing Power of Angling

In the heart of Cornwall, a non-profit Community Interest Company is making waves by providing a unique approach to mental health support, and it involves casting lines into the tranquil waters of the Cornish coast. Meet Tight Lines CIC, an organisation that's redefining the way we approach mental wellness by using the art of fishing as a powerful vehicle for healing.

The Power of Nature's Embrace

Nestled along the picturesque Cornish coastline, Tight Lines CIC has tapped into the age-old wisdom that nature has a profound impact on our mental wellbeing. Sea angling, against the backdrop of the breathtaking coastal landscape, offers more than just the thrill of a catch. It's a powerful tool that can boost mood, enhance mindfulness, and contribute to a greater sense of overall wellbeing.

Multiple studies have shown that immersing ourselves in natural environments can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing our cognitive function and creativity. The soothing rhythm of the waves, the salty breeze, and the calming embrace of the sea work in harmony to create an environment that soothes the mind and rejuvenates the spirit.

Tight Liners Off To Cast A Line

Fishing: A Pathway to Peace

At the heart of Tight Lines' mission lies the therapeutic power of fishing. Engaging in the art of angling demands focus, patience, and a certain level of skill. When you're out on the water, absorbed in the gentle rhythm of casting and waiting, your worries gradually fade into the background. The act of fishing demands a kind of mindfulness that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to truly be present in the moment.

Moreover, the pursuit of improving one's fishing skills provides a goal-oriented structure that can be particularly helpful for those grappling with mental health challenges. Whether it's learning to read the currents, mastering different casting techniques, or understanding the behaviour of various fish species, each step towards mastery offers a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

A Community United by Angling

Tight Lines CIC goes beyond the individual experience of fishing. It fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals who share a passion for angling and a commitment to improving their mental wellbeing. The organisation hosts angling workshops, providing an opportunity for participants to not only hone their fishing skills but also to connect with others who are navigating similar challenges.

In a world that often isolates those dealing with mental health issues, Tight Lines is casting a wide net of support. Through this shared interest, individuals are able to forge connections, share stories, and find solace in the camaraderie of their fellow anglers. The angling community that Tight Lines has nurtured becomes a safe space where people can open up, find understanding, and develop lasting friendships.

A Founder's Personal Journey

Tight Lines CIC was founded by Justin Keight, a man who knows the pain of losing a loved one to mental health struggles all too well. After losing his best friend to the silent battle of mental health, Justin channelled his grief and determination into creating something meaningful. With Tight Lines CIC, he transformed his personal pain into a collective source of healing and hope.

Justin's journey from loss to action serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Through Tight Lines, he has created a lasting legacy that honours his friend's memory and extends a helping hand to those in need. One cast at a time, he's making a difference in the lives of individuals who might have otherwise been caught in the rough currents of mental health challenges.

The Team Behind the Vision

Justin Keight's determination was just the starting point. To turn his vision into reality, he assembled a team of dedicated individuals who shared his passion and commitment. Megan Searle, the digital sorceress joined the fold, bringing her own expertise and enthusiasm to the table. Tony Portas, proprietor of Lizard Tackle & Bait, also joined the effort, contributing his vast knowledge of angling and the local community and is key in the daily runnings of Tight Lines.

The final piece of the puzzle was the addition of Tim Cocks, a seasoned expert in community interest companies, charitable work and managing community projects. With his incredible experience, Tim became a mentor to Justin, Tony, and the entire Tight Lines team. His guidance and insights play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation and its mission.

Tony, Justin & Tim

Together, this dynamic team has created a synergy that propels Tight Lines CIC forward, ensuring that their mission to support mental health through angling reaches as many lives as possible.

Reeling in Hope for Cornwall

Tight Lines CIC isn't just about fishing; it's about helping the people of Cornwall reel in hope, resilience, and improved mental wellbeing. In a region where economic and social pressures are keenly felt, this organisation is a beacon of support, standing against the tide of mental health challenges that many face.

By using the sea as their ally and fishing as their conduit, Tight Lines CIC is fostering a community that is resilient, connected, and empowered. It's a reminder that sometimes the simplest activities can have the most profound impact on our lives.

So, the next time you find yourself on the stunning Cornish coast, take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you and consider the potential for healing that lies within the rhythmic casting of a line. Tight Lines CIC, is a testament to the fact that sometimes all we need is a little nature and a shared passion to help us navigate the challenges of life's currents.

Tight Lines all.

JK

The Joys of Fishing: A Beginner's Perspective

Fishing is more than just a hobby for some; it's a way of life. For Meg, a young woman from Cornwall, it was something she had never really considered until her husband mentioned how he used to fish when he was younger and toyed with the idea of getting ‘back in the saddle’. 

Meg engineered a plan to ensure her husband received a new fishing rod and a reel to match as a Christmas gift.

Intrigued about her husband’s rejuvenated passion for fishing, of course Meg went along with her husband on a planned fishing trip where they took in turns casting a lure and watching a float. 

Little did she know, it would become a new passion that she would come to love.

"It's so addictive," Meg says, "Once you start, it's like an urge to go again and see what you can catch next time." She recounts how the experience is so immersive that it makes you lose track of time. "We completely forgot to eat our packed lunch we'd taken," she laughs.

But fishing isn't just about the thrill of the catch. It's also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the peaceful and relaxing environment of the sea. "It's so peaceful and relaxing with the sound of the sea hitting the rocks and the birds flying overhead," Meg notes.

For Meg, fishing also became a source of personal achievement. "It feels like such an accomplishment," she beams, "I was so proud I'd learned something new and actually caught a fish!!! Even if you don’t manage to catch anything, it's still the achievement of trying and just enjoying your environment."

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of fishing is its ability to connect people with nature. "It gives you a really rare opportunity to connect with nature and almost feel how amazing something so simple can be," Meg says, "Life doesn't need to be complicated, and something like fishing can ground you a bit if that makes sense!"

Indeed, the benefits of fishing go beyond just the experience itself. Research has shown that spending time in nature has significant health benefits, both physical and mental. According to a study published in the journal "Frontiers in Psychology," spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase cognitive function.

Fishing, in particular, has been found to have a positive impact on mental health. A study conducted by the Mental Health Foundation in the UK,  found that fishing improved the well-being of participants, including reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

Additionally, fishing provided a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which contributed to overall life satisfaction.

The therapeutic effects of fishing can be attributed to the combination of physical activity, social interaction, and immersion in nature. The act of fishing requires concentration and focus, which can be meditative and promote mindfulness. 

Furthermore, spending time with others who share a common interest can foster a sense of community and belonging.

Fishing can also be a low-cost and accessible form of recreation for individuals of all ages and abilities. With no age limit or physical requirement, fishing can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their fitness level. It's a great way to get out of the house and spend time with family and friends, or even just to enjoy some solitude in nature.

As Meg discovered, fishing can be an incredibly rewarding experience that provides a sense of accomplishment, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-time fisher, the joys of fishing are accessible to everyone. So why not give it a try? You never know, you might just discover a new passion.

Good Health Comes To Those Who Bait…

Why do people go fishing?

The answer is quite simple. Anglers have unlimited amounts of hope. It is this hope that soon becomes a focus that evolves into a habit, which makes way for an incredibly wonderful pastime.

Justin Keight, founder of Tight Lines, is one of those anglers full of said hope. An experienced fishing guide within his own outdoor adventure business, Cornwall Adventures, Justin envisaged a way of teaching people a key life skill whilst helping those that are struggling with mental health. Thus, in the summer of this year, Tight Lines was born.

Tight Lines is a Cornwall based non-profit Community Interest Company, providing mental health support to the people of Cornwall, using the wonderful sport of fishing as the vehicle.

Sea angling from the magical Cornish coast can really help boost mood and mindfulness, as surrounding yourself with nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mental wellbeing.

Focusing on your rod or float, as well as striving to improve your fishing skills, helps to relax both your body and mind.

The main focus of this community project, is on those of adult age who are experiencing difficulty and issues with mental health, including PTSD, anxiety, stress and depression.

Through regular meetings and angling workshops, Tight Lines brings like minded individuals together, learning and sharing new skills, whilst creating its very own angling community.

The project will also look to work alongside and support a range of Cornish businesses creating fundraising events for Tight Lines and other worthy local causes through feastnights and happenings throughout Cornwall.

If you are a business and would like to work alongside Tight Lines helping to improve the lives of the people living in Cornwall, please do get in touch.

This social project is more than just a fishing society. It’s about bringing the community together and helping as many people in Cornwall as possible using our bigget ally, the sea.

10 Reasons why fishing is good for the mind, body and soul

Fishing isn’t just a hobby that boring old men partake in, it is so much more than that!

With both physical and mental health benefits, we are beginning to see more families and friends utilise the sport as means to spend quality time together. Below we have listed our top 10 reasons as to why fishing is great for your mind, body, and soul. We hope you enjoy this content and learn to love fishing as much as we do!

1. Exercise

It may not look like an angler is burning many calories, but on average you can burn between 150-300 calories an hour fishing! That is without the walk across fields, up and down cliffs or trudging across beaches to get your favourite spot!

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is more common than you would think in the UK! Low levels can lead to a weaker immune system, feeling tired and a low mood. Having more outdoor exposure is a great way to naturally raise your vitamin D levels. The sun beaming down on your face can work wonders for your body and everyone knows a little sunshine can put a smile on the face. Be sure to wear sun protection though! You’ll still get all the benefits of producing vitamin D, whilst also offering great protection to your skin.

3. Clean those lungs

Air pollution is an ever-growing concern around the globe. It has been shown to be linked to asthma, Parkinson’s, and heart disease. Spending time at your local fishing spot can help bring you out of the city environment and give your lungs that fresher and cleaner air it needs.

4. Mindfulness

Surrounding yourself with nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. Focusing on your rod or float as well as striving to improve your fishing skills, helps to relax both your body and mind.

5. Reduced screen time

Ditch the screen and get down to the water! We all lead busy lives which can weigh heavily on our mood and relationships. Fishing can help develop patience and concentration, two very important skills indeed.

6. Self-esteem

Your fishing journey helps develop key skills over time, with the ultimate reward coming in the shape of a fish. That sense of achievement you get from each trip, from learning how to cast, choosing the right bait, assessing weather and tides to finally taking a fish and eating your catch is a truly incredible feeling.

7. Be part of the fishing community

Fishing can be enjoyed with family, friends and loved ones. There is a wide range of resources available to anglers nowadays, to help improve your fishing skills. Our top tips include searching online fishing forums or even popping into your local tackle shop to chat with likeminded people. Feeling part of a fishing community is a special feeling.

8. Healthy food

Fish is packed full of rich nutrients, which are vital for our health and wellbeing. You can find omega-3 fatty acids, protein and multiple vitamins, including Vitamin D and B2. It’s known for being rich in calcium and phosphorus as well as packed full of essential minerals like iron, iodine, magnesium and potassium.

9. Learn new recipes

The bonus of catching fish for the table is that you begin to learn new skills in the kitchen. How can you make that bit of fish taste even better? Both the reward of catching the fish and cooking a delicious meal will surely flood your brain with endorphins!

10. Creating memories

Nobody forgets their first fish and it is even better when you can share that euphoria with others. Every trip will hold a little bit of magic in one form or another, whether hauling out your target species or spending some time next to the water and embracing the nature around you.

With so many health benefits, give fishing a try. It can help unlock so much more that you could possibly imagine. Grab that rod and reel and get yourself a little bit of ‘vitamin sea’!

Get involved with all things Tight Lines, here.