Inspirational Islanders: Colin Webb, Vectis Boating and Fishing Club

Keen motorcyclist Colin is the main man behind Vectis Boating and Fishing Club’s Junior Fishing Frenzy competition – an event which encourages youngsters to get involved with fishing in a responsible manner. The annual competition is held during the summer alongside our FastCat port at Ryde Pier.

“Island life is awesome, most people are super friendly and willing to help each other out and nothing is too far away. I have my own property maintenance business, so getting around on my motorbike is very easy. Although when I get requests to do some work on the mainland it’s only a quick hop on a Wightlink ferry and off I go.

I have two favourite beaches on the Island, Priory Bay out of season when it’s quiet, and Keys beach for some quiet time and a spot of fishing. Being an angler, anywhere where there is a chance to wet a line is a good one, so I also like Ryde Pier as it offers a hidden opportunity to take in the areas from the perspective of being out on the water.

My favourite walk or more often mountain bike ride has to be from Ryde Harbour, up the pier to the end, then head back to Spencer Road, along Ladies Walk past Ryde golf club towards Quarr Abbey (stopping to say hello to the pigs there), then finishing up at Fishbourne. It’s very scenic and doesn’t get too busy even in the summer months. Another great walk is along The Causeway at Yarmouth – lots of wildlife and a pub at the end of it.

Ryde is for me the best place to live, golden sandy beaches on your doorstep, with loads of fun events throughout the year, a tidal harbour to launch my boat from, with egrets and the odd heron feeding in the rock pools at low tide. For breathtaking views though, the Military Road which runs from Chale to Freshwater has the best views on the Island and is a popular route for cyclists, bikers and drivers alike.

Wightlink’s support over the last 22 years has introduced and helped over 1,500 junior anglers get out in the fresh air and experience sea fishing as part of VBFC. As well as learning how to fish, novice anglers are also shown how to handle what they catch and ensure they are aware of their surroundings and leave things as they found them, including taking away lines and rubbish. Wightlink’s initiative to offer the Most Responsible Junior Angler Award is the icing on the cake.”

ℹ️ The Vectis Boating and Fishing Club is supported by Wightlink in the Community.