Gary Anderson, the legendary two-time World Darts Champion, is increasingly trading his arrows for fishing rods, transforming a personal hobby into a thriving business. He’s now the proud owner of Landsend Fishery, managing four expansive lakes and finding profound peace away from the competitive darts circuit. This surprising shift highlights a growing trend among elite darts players who are discovering solace and even new ventures in the world of angling, proving that the biggest catch isn’t always a trophy.
While still one of the most naturally gifted and dangerous scorers in darts history, Gary Anderson, also known as “The Flying Scotsman,” has developed a deep love for fishing. What began as a nostalgic hobby, rekindled during a trip to Blackpool with fellow pro Ian White, has evolved from a casual pastime into a dedicated lifestyle that now defines his time away from the oche.
From Hobby to Business: Anderson’s Fishery Empire
Anderson’s passion for fishing isn’t just a weekend escape; it’s now a full-scale business venture. He recently acquired Landsend Fishery, becoming the owner of four expansive lakes in Somerset. This beautiful fishery has become Anderson’s personal sanctuary. Known for his indifference towards rankings and sporting reputation, and his ambivalence towards the lucrative Premier League, Anderson openly admits he’s far more passionate about maintaining wildlife and enjoying the fresh air of Somerset.
He humorously mentioned in an interview that he now “squeezes in” darts tournaments around his busy schedule at the lakes. Anderson sees his venture as a rewarding way to turn a hobby into a retirement plan, noting that he bought the fishery as an investment. While admitting it’s “tough going” and “hard graft,” he emphasizes that nothing can beat the “peace and quiet” he finds there.
The Shared Passion: Darts Players and the Riverbank
Anderson is certainly not the only elite darts player to find joy and relaxation on the water. The connection between the darts oche and the riverbank is a long-standing one, with many top talents sharing this aquatic passion.
Notable Anglers from the Darts World:
- Bobby George: The legendary player and TV personality is a prime example, hosting fans at his private 12-acre George Hall estate for coached fishing experiences.
- Professional Circuit Events: The annual Sports Stars Fishing Championship is a popular fixture for PDC’s top talent. Recently, James Wade and Lorraine Winstanley were part of a winning team, while Adrian Lewis showcased his skill by landing over 51kg of fish to secure third place overall.
- Michael van Gerwen: For sheer scale and dedication, few can rival the Dutch great. Michael van Gerwen takes his angling as seriously as his darts, boasting a high-tech arsenal of gear, including a signature lime-green bait boat. He has recorded jaw-dropping catches abroad, such as a 1.6-metre shark in the Maldives and a massive 280kg marlin in Gran Canaria.
Fishing’s Broader Appeal: A Multi-Billion Pound Industry
The increasing number of darts players pictured with their latest big catch reflects a larger trend: fishing has transformed from a niche pastime into a vibrant lifestyle visible across pop culture, entertainment, and even fashion. Recreational angling is now a multi-billion-pound industry in the UK, highlighting its widespread appeal and economic significance. This popularity extends into various unexpected areas:
- Gaming: Some of the most popular progressive slot games are themed around angling, such as the Jackpot King title, “Fishin’ Frenzy: The Big Catch,” joining other leading titles on major iGaming platforms.
- Fashion: The sport has even influenced fashion trends through the growth of “Anglercore,” a style rooted in practical riverbank wear that has found its way into mainstream aesthetics.
Anderson’s Ultimate Catch: Peace of Mind
For Gary Anderson, the quiet banks of Landsend Fishery offer a sanctuary that the frantic PDC circuit simply cannot. By trading the intense demands of the Premier League for the hard work and tranquility of his lakes, “The Flying Scotsman” has found his ultimate balance. Here, his most rewarding catch is no longer a trophy, but the profound peace of mind and satisfaction of building a lasting legacy beyond the darts board.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
