Change your choices. Change your future.
Knives down.
Rods up.
Put the knife down. Pick the rod up. KDRU shows young people that there are different paths, different opportunities, and a future worth working towards.
The story
Built from lived experience, not lectures.
The KDRU founder was introduced to fishing at a young age by his grandad John, who took him and his sister down to the river along with his dad. Over the years, fishing became more than just a hobby.
After losing his dad when he was just aged 12, he went down the wrong path and saw first-hand how knife crime can affect your life and the people around you. He credits the help of an in-school mentor, his teachers, and his youth offending worker that gave him their time and someone to talk to when he needed it most — and getting back into fishing which gave him something positive to focus on.
He decided to start Knives Down Rods Up and use that experience and passion to help other young people see there is always another path. If it makes a difference to even one young person before they go down the wrong road, it is worth it. Stop the cycle.
“Put the knife down. Pick the rod up. Change your choices. Change your future.”
Why fishing
More than a hobby. A way to change lives.
Something positive to focus on
Fishing slows everything down. It teaches patience, mindfulness, and gives young people a reason to stay focused.
People who listen
Young people fish alongside mentors who give their time, someone to talk to, and support when it is needed most.
A different path
A few hours by the water opens the door to different opportunities — and keeps young people away from risky situations.
A future worth working towards
KDRU is a community where young people are seen for who they can become, not just where they have been.
Get involved
There is a place for you in KDRU.
For young people
Want to try fishing? No experience or kit needed. Come along, linkup, and see if it is for you.
Ask about a sessionFor parents and carers
If you are worried about a young person and want a safe, positive outlet, we are here to talk.
Get in touchFor schools and youth workers
We can run introductory sessions, talks, or ongoing programmes for your group.
Partner with usFor volunteers and sponsors
Help us reach more young people with your time, expertise, kit, or funding.
Offer supportContact
Start a conversation
Drop us a DM on Instagram and we will get back to you as soon as we can. No question is too small.
- Ask about sessions, referrals, or partnerships.
- Find out how a young person can take part.
- Offer to volunteer, donate kit, or sponsor a session.
Message us on Instagram
Follow @knives.down.rods.up and send us a DM — that is where we are most responsive.
Send a DMFor enquiries only.