TAUNTON residents made the most of one of the hottest summers on record by taking to the river as sales in fishing gear rose by 87%.

The increase in fishing items sold at GO Outdoors Taunton was very high for the first three weeks of the summer holidays with lots of people making the most of the weather.

With everything from bait to waders in stock at the St Johns Retail Park store, Taunton, shoppers invested in over 600 rods and poles to ensure the catch of the day didn’t get away.

Harry Bartlett, 18, staff member at GO Outdoors Taunton and a keen fisherman, said: “Fishing is such an awesome hobby that I don’t think enough people do.

"I’ve been fishing since I was little and now spend some weekends trying to catch my biggest fish. It’s so satisfying when you land any fish, any size, the thrill comes from the fight.

“I’m so glad to hear that the people of Taunton have been making the most of the great weather we have been having and getting outdoors to enjoy a spot of fishing.”