Rods & Ribbons join the Suzuki Fishing Team

The Rods & Ribbons Fishing Team © Suzuki

Gemma from Rods & Ribbons © Suzuki

Casting for a cause

Rods & Ribbons, made up of Gemma, Emma, Izzy and Hannah are the UK's first all-ladies sea angling team. After raising almost £19,000 in 2024, they are reuniting to the water to continue their inspiring mission of raising awareness and reeling in funds for Cancer Research UK.

Their journey began with a love for the sea and a commitment to making a difference. As avid but in some cases newbie anglers, the team found solace and strength in the rhythmic ebb and flow of the ocean.

It was personal experiences with cancer that truly galvanised a resolve to fight this relentless disease. Each is touched by cancer in some way. The team share a connection and have forged an unbreakable bond, fueled by a determination to support Cancer Research.

The team will participate in several high-profile events throughout 2025. United by their shared love for fishing and their unwavering desire to make a difference, the team remains committed to breaking barriers in the sport while championing a cause close to their hearts.

The name, Rods and Ribbons, symbolises a dual commitment to the sport of sea angling and the cause of cancer research. The fishing rods represent the team's passion for the sport, while the ribbons signify dedication to the fight against cancer.

Their efforts are further strengthened by the generous support of their partners including Suzuki Marine. Partnerships, including the one with Suzuki, play a vital role in empowering the team to achieve their mission and amplify their message of hope and inclusivity.

Together, the team will cast their lines into the vast ocean, hoping to reel in not just fish, but also hope and support for those affected by cancer.

Join Rods & Ribbons on their journey this year as they cast their lines for a cause that truly matters. Together, with the support of their partners and community, they aim to continue the fight against all cancers.

The UK's first all-ladies fishing team - photo © Suzuki

Meet the team

Gemma

1. How long have you been fishing? - 2-years
2. How did you first get into fishing? - After visiting BoatLife in 2023 and hearing about the Sea Angling Classic and the prize boat, I thought it would be fun to enter, even though I had never fished before in my life!
3. What was the first fish you caught? - The First fish I caught was a codling from the shore in the River Mersey
4. Do you have a memorable fishing experience? Fishing at the Sea Angling Classic in 2023, we had two big smooth hounds on board at the same time, it was manic but so fun
5. What is it that you love about fishing? When I'm fishing my mind is totally clear. I'm not thinking about my to do list, and other problems in life. My mind is relaxed and focused on the peace of the water
6. What one thing can you not go fishing without? It is now my lucky socks after winning my first competition the first time I wore my lucky pink fishing socks!

1. How long have you been fishing? Before I joined the team, I had only been twice, unless crabbing counts!
2. What was the first fish you caught? One of only two fish I have caught myself was a Pouting on the Solent.
3. Do you have a memorable fishing experience? I was very fortunate that the second fish I have ever caught was a weighty undulate ray.
4. What one thing can you not go on the water without? Always a lifejacket, but I never go on the water without a waterproof phone case. Everything is content!
5. What was your first reaction to being asked to join the all-ladies team? I was initially shocked when asked if I would join the team, given my very limited fishing experience. But the mission of the team is something I am very proud to be part of.

1. How long have you been fishing? Not even a year, it's a very new experience as I've never been involved in this world before.
2. What was the first fish you caught? My first was very boring, a little mackerel but I was so proud that I caught anything.
3. Do you have a memorable fishing experience or a favourite catch? Seeing a smooth hound for the first time, I was amazed at how beautiful but big they were.
4. What is it that you love about fishing? The people. I've never been involved in such a kind and supportive community and then really made this last year so enjoyable.
5. Do you have any tips for anyone wanting to get into fishing? If you have a chance, give it a go. I took the and it was the best thing I've done in a very long time. There are so many people who can and want to help!

1. How did you first get into fishing? My dad is an avid lake and river fisherman, I started to join him when I was six. My first experience of sea fishing was when I was a sailing instructor in Weymouth, catching mackerel and pollock off the back of the yacht.
2. What was the first fish you caught? The first fish I caught was a roach. This was during one of our annual family holidays to the Norfolk Broads.
3. Do you have a memorable fishing experience or a favourite catch? Anchored in hope. Catching tope! Reeling in a tope without realising!
4. What is it that you love about fishing? I love being on the water and the excitement of catching a fish.