Men in the UK are still facing a serious mental health crisis. In 2020, the suicide rate for men was 16.9 per 100,000 — more than triple the rate for women. And with over 80 per cent of recreational anglers being male, fishing is becoming an unexpected but effective way to reach men who often slip through the gaps of traditional support.
A recent study by Karen McEntegart, a psychology graduate from the University of Wolverhampton, looked into why fishing seems to strike such a chord with men. She interviewed anglers anonymously through Facebook fishing groups and used thematic analysis to dig into feelings they might not usually share out loud. What she found was clear: being outdoors helped them feel calmer, more grounded, and more connected to nature. Many described fishing as a kind of natural mindfulness — a quiet space to breathe and manage stress.
To see how this plays out closer to home, Lauren Coley spoke to three Black Country fishermen about what keeps them going back to the water.
For Warren Parker, “It’s therapeutic.”
Wayne Stevens said it helps him switch off.
It stops you from thinking about things. It’s just you and the fish.
Shane Harris, Fisherman.
Their experiences mirror McEntegart’s findings. Fishing isn’t just a hobby — for many men, it’s a lifeline. A moment of stillness in a world that rarely slows down, offering space, purpose, and a bit of much-needed calm.