About Marina

Marina Gibson is a renowned fishing instructor, guide and conservationist. She is the Founder of Northern Fishing School at Swinton Estate in North Yorkshire, which now teaches over 400 people a year the art of fly fishing.

Marina was lucky enough to spend much of her childhood chasing salmon, trout and sea trout.

Following in the footsteps of her talented mother Joanna Gibson, herself a devoted fly fisher, Marina has dedicated a significant part of her life to the pursuit of every type of fish at every available opportunity wherever in the world that may be.

My introduction to fishing

As a family we spent a lot of our time outdoors and on the banks of the river. My parents introduced me to fishing when I was five years old, starting with conventional tackle and light single-handed rods, both eagerly waiting to connect with the ‘King of fish’, the Atlantic salmon.

It wasn’t until I was 11, fishing the River Oykel, that this moment arrived and I caught two in the space of 10 minutes. “This salmon fishing malarkey is a doddle” I thought. Little did I know how tough this remarkable species could be.

My mother used to take us to our local fishery, Donnington Trout Farm. The manager taught us how to gut a fish and showed us that if the fish has just been killed the heart still pumps in your hands. These memories really stuck, although sadly, it’s no longer a fishery.

During my teens, fishing took a backseat. But when my parents gave me rods for my 21st birthday I rediscovered the joy of fishing and found it grounding. I was longing to find something to take me out of London at weekends and fishing became my escape.

The art of fly fishing

Marina is an ambassador for YETI, Angling Trust and Atlantic Salmon Trust, and in June 2019 she launched The Northern Fishing School at Swinton Estate in North Yorkshire, where her and her team teach all ages and abilities the art and technique of fly fishing and connect as many people as possible to the great outdoors.

“Fishing is one of the most mindful sports you can do – the art of fly fishing requires complete concentration, total absorption, and is both exhilarating and relaxing. It is how I find calm and I know others would benefit from giving it a go too. Get outdoors, it’s great for the mind & soul.”

Marina Gibson

A passion for fishing

Marina co-founded Cancer and Pisces Trust, a cancer charity that aims to enhance the lives of cancer sufferers through the therapeutic pastime of Angling, offering free fishing centres once a month to members and their companions.

A certified ‘Fly Fishers International Instructor and 1st4sport Level 2 coach, Marina is also a freelance writer who hosts trips worldwide and guides in the UK.

"Gone fishing"

Marina is a trustee for River Action UK, a UK-based environmental charity committed to addressing the severe problem of river pollution, particularly that caused by agricultural and food industry practices. “We need clean water for wildlife to thrive and future generations to enjoy.”

“Fly fishing is on a boom at the moment. As more people look for ways to disconnect from our digital world, fishing’s reputation of being stuffy and old-fashioned is being challenged.

People are discovering fly fishing as a great way to get outdoors, meet new friends and connect with nature. Fishing is one of the most accessible sports. You can find a lake local to you, as I did when I lived in London; or you can pack your rod and travel the World. Everyone can enjoy it and I think that’s the reason why today’s fly fishing tribe is so diverse.

As a beginner, it can be frustrating when your line turns into a bird’s nest of knots but by learning a few basic techniques, you can still get out, have fun and catch your first fish. At my school, we are able to do this for all ages and abilities by breaking it down into short lessons. With my course on Fieldcraft app, you have these lessons on your phone so no matter where you are, you can learn and get started.

Let’s go fishing!”

Marina Gibson

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