Region’s First Fly-Fishing Academy Inaugurated in Al Aqah, Fujairah
Confirming the growing popularity of fly fishing with residents of the Persian Gulf, the sport is to become a permanent fixture at the award-winning Le Meridian Al Aqah beach resort with the opening of a designated school, it was announced today.
Situated at the hotel on a dramatic stretch of coastline adjacent to the Hajar Mountains, the Fujairah Salt Water Fly Fishing Academy is run under the auspices of acclaimed fisherman Martin James, and aims to offer anglers of varying abilities both an insight and expert tuition in the sport.
James – whose previous accolades include the most prestigious award within the angling world, the Lord Mason’s Illuminated Scroll – never travels without his rod and since his first visit to the UAE in 1992, has been enthralled by the seas surrounding Arabia.
“With its densely populated and flat waters, the Gulf is perfect for this style of fishing,” said James.
“Fujairah, in contrast to Dubai and the windy West Coast, is particularly suitable and these factors therefore played a fundamental role in my decision to locate the academy here,” he added.
The equipment required for fly fishing is minimal and it is consequently an ideal pursuit for tourists. Moreover, unlike more conventional methods of angling, fly fishing is far less messy and does not involve live bait but a hook covered in silk furs which, when combined with an expert cast, imitates a bait fish.
“Whilst the correct technique is an imperative part of successful casting, a catch is extremely unpredictable and one can never learn too much with this sport,” James continued.
The academy therefore offers a range of courses and expert tuition and 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 longest programs, which last for three days and, inclusive of two night’s accommodation at Le Meridien Al Aqah, cost upwards of Dhs.2,444 and are available at both a beginner’s and advanced level.
The first advanced course at the academy will run from 15-17 February 2006, followed by the first beginner course from 19-21 February 2006.
“We are extremely honored to have Martin James as our resident ‘fisherman’,” said Patrick Antaki, general manager, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort.
“With his wealth of experience, aptitude for fun and keen eye, he will undoubtedly become a regular fixture on the holiday itinerary of all our guests,” Antaki concluded.
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About Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 850 properties in more than 95 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood® Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, Sheraton®, Westin®, Four Points® by Sheraton, W®, Le Méridien® and the recently announced AloftSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.
