In Sunderland, a community of men regularly gather to fish, sometimes with as many as 17 fishermen coming together to share their passion. For them, fishing is an art form that can be passed down to kids, grandkids, and future generations. It’s about learning to be hands-on in a world where so much is handed to us, and it teaches patience, skill, and a love of nature. The act of fishing gets people out of the house, encourages them to learn something new, and brings them the fresh air and friendships they crave. 

Joe and Bobby’s journey is part of a larger narrative that spans families, communities, and cultures around the world. From learning a cherished family recipe to mastering a unique craft, skills passed down from one generation to the next are a treasure trove of knowledge. These abilities enrich lives and form the threads that bind us to our past, while also inspiring the future. 

Their story is captured in this film as part of The Skills In Us series, celebrating the extraordinary talents of ordinary people and the wisdom they share. The series explores how skills are passed down—from parents to children, mentors to apprentices, and within communities. It highlights the beauty of these intergenerational conversations and the deep value of sharing knowledge in meaningful, lasting ways. 

For Joe, Bobby, and their friends, fishing is about more than catching a fish—it’s about camaraderie, tradition, and the satisfaction of passing something valuable down through generations. “Fishing never gets boring,” they say, “and you can catch a fish, go home, cook it, and it tastes amazing.” The process is not just about the end result; it’s about sharing life skills and creating lasting memories with family and friends. 

Their message is clear: we are never too young or too old to learn new skills. Whether it’s fishing, sewing, knitting, or any other craft, these timeless abilities provide a sense of accomplishment, connection, and creativity. More importantly, they hold the potential to be passed on to the next generation, ensuring that this rich heritage remains alive and thriving. 

You can watch Joe and Bobby’s film below. 

The Joy of Sharing Skills Across Generations   

1. Preservation of Knowledge: Sharing skills between generations helps ensure that valuable knowledge and traditions are kept alive. This is especially important for nurturing traditional crafts, cultural practices, and unique skills that enrich our lives and could easily be forgotten.   
2. Growth in Professional Settings: In workplaces, passing skills from experienced employees to younger team members not only supports high standards of competence but also creates a nurturing environment. This mentorship fosters the sharing of best practices and insights, allowing everyone to grow together.   
3. Personal Development: For younger generations, learning from their elders opens up wonderful opportunities for personal growth and the development of essential life skills. This exchange encourages respect and understanding, strengthening the bonds between different generations.   

 As we find ourselves living in an increasingly digital world, the importance of preserving and sharing traditional skills cannot be overstated. Joe and Bobby’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the rich source of knowledge that exists within our families and communities. Each skill passed down— like Joe and Bobby’s fishing skills — carries a legacy that connects us to our past and empowers future generations.   

By embracing and celebrating these skills, we not only honour those who came before us but also enrich our own lives and the lives of others. The act of sharing knowledge helps us build deeper connections, inspires creativity, and cultivates resilience in a rapidly changing world.   

Let us take a moment to reflect on the skills within us and the unique stories they tell. Together, we can ensure that these invaluable traditions continue to thrive, weaving a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come. Join us in celebrating and sharing the skills that define us—because when we pass on our knowledge, we create a legacy that lasts.