Arabian resort offers fly fishing academy

Fly fishing as a sport is believed to have originated as early as the second century, but the past 30 years have seen an increase in the popularity of salt-water fly fishing and the favorable weather conditions in Fujairah during autumn and winter make it an ideal venue for fly fishing.

The Fujairah Salt Water Fly Fishing Academy was launched in 2006, run under the auspices of British angler Martin James. Through the academy, fly-fishing has risen in stature to become one of the east coast’s most popular activities, particularly since it requires minimal equipment and does not involve live bait but a hook covered in silk furs.

Martin, who began fishing when he was four years old, broadcasts his many fishing travels on BBC Radio Lancashire and has received many awards from the angling industry, including the Lord Mason’s Illuminated Scroll. Since his first visit to the UAE in 1992, he has been enthralled by the seas surrounding Arabia.

“Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort prides itself on providing guests with a complete range of outdoor activities, to suit all interests, and the popularity of the academy prompted us to invite Martin back,” said Patrick Antaki, General Manager, Le Méridien Al Aqah.

“Fly-fishing looks simple, but actually requires a lot of skill so naturally we wanted to provide our guests with expert tuition so they can get the most out of the activity,” added Antaki.

The academy aims to offer anglers of varying abilities both an insight and expert tuition in the sport. It covers all aspects of the sport, from the various methods of tying knots to the mechanics of casting and the use of floating, sinking and intermediate lines

The academy offers both week-day and weekend packages – starting from AED 1850 per night for weekdays and AED 2210 per night for weekends. All the packages include accommodation; half a day in the classroom, with video and technical presentation; and a five-hour fishing charter with James. James will also be hosting the students at dinner, to provide any extra tips on fly-fishing.

The academy, which will run from Sunday 14 December to Sunday 21 December, promises to be a sell-out so anglers are advised to book early.

For more information and bookings log on to Lemeridien.com/Fujairah.