Fishing is for everyone, and Sarika McDonald is out to prove that.
The Dannhauser mother of three was recently crowned the Lady Angler of the Season, at the end of the recent Angling Professional League (APL) season. Out to break barriers and land the big one, this was the biggest achievement thus far in her fishing career.
Sarika’s love of angling started at an early age, when she went out fishing with her father. After relocating to Dannhauser, she started fishing again as a pastime with husband, Bradley. The couple found it to be extremely therapeutic and in 2017, they both joined the Dannhauser Angling Club.
Their fishy passion spread to their children as well, and all three have since taken a keen interest in the sport. Sarika said she hoped to inspire other youngsters and women to take up fishing as well.
“I love the calm and quiet build-up; the anticipation of what will be caught. It has me hooked to the sport.”
Sarika is also aiming to break the stereotype that fishing is just for men. She admitted there had been both pleasant and unpleasant experiences, including some who told her plainly she shouldn’t be there. Others have praised, motivated and cheered her on.
“One of the best parts of being a female angler is seeing the looks on people’s faces when the hat and face mask come off, and you hear the whispers of ‘oh my word, it’s a woman’. There are always surprised looks on their faces when they see you sleeping in your vehicle the night before, waiting for the gates to open.”
She admitted angling was a tougher environment for female anglers.
“There are long days exposed to the blazing sun, howling wind and sometimes battering rain, but we soldier on and fish hard.”
Winning the title for the APL’s best female angler was a huge accomplishment for Sarika, and helped justify that she did belong in the sport.
“It proved that women can excel in an extraordinary environment, where harsh weather, long hours and stereotypes add to the challenges, but make the accomplishments that much sweeter.”
With a tough but rewarding season behind her, Sarika praised and thanked her teammates at the Dannhauser AC.
“Thank you for believing in my abilities and always motivating, encouraging and advising me. To all the female anglers, well done. Being present is an achievement in its own. Until the next season – tight lines, stay safe and stay blessed.”
HAVE YOUR SAY:
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.
