Dame Julianna Berners: The Pioneering Conservation Angler of Medieval Times

Understanding the history of angling as a thoughtful endeavor takes us back to literature from medieval times.  What’s surprising is not the interest in becoming a more well-rounded and intentional angler, but that one of the first known authors to pen a book on the subject was a woman.  This fact reminds us again of the inclusiveness of fishing and the importance of the sport as a pursuit of pleasure and sustenance for all those interested in partaking.

In the heart of medieval England, where the art of angling was as much a pastime as it was a means of sustenance, Dame Julianna Berners emerged as an unlikely but formidable figure in the history of fishing. Born around 1388, Dame Julianna Berners is often celebrated as one of the earliest authors to write on the subject of fishing, particularly in her work, “A Treatyse of Fysshynge wyth an Angle” published in 1496 (written at an earlier date).

As a prioress of the Sopwell Nunnery near St. Albans, Hertfordshire, Berners was a woman of noble birth, believed to be well-educated, and versed in the ways of the court. Her upbringing likely included hunting and fishing with other courtiers, activities that she continued to enjoy and eventually wrote about after adopting a monastic life.

During the medieval period, fishing was perceived differently across social classes, reflecting the varied roles it played in society. For the nobility and the wealthy, fishing was often a leisure activity, a sport that provided enjoyment and a way to demonstrate one’s status. The upper classes had the means to engage in angling with sophisticated equipment and could afford to fish for pleasure rather than necessity.

On the other hand, fishing was a vital source of sustenance for the lower classes, particularly those living in coastal areas or near rivers and lakes. It was a part of their daily life and work, with local populations usually having the right to harvest and fish for their consumption within the boundaries of communal lands. Fishing techniques varied based on the environment and the tools available, ranging from simple hand-catching to the use of nets and traps.

Moreover, fishing also played a significant economic role, with fish being a staple food, especially on fast days and periods of abstinence as mandated by the Christian church. This created a demand for fish, which was met by both local and commercial fishing efforts. In some cases, fish was preserved and sold, becoming an important trade commodity.

Overall, fishing was a multifaceted activity in medieval times, with its perception and practice deeply intertwined with the social and economic fabric of the era. Dame Julianna Berners’ writings reflect an understanding of fishing that transcends class boundaries, offering insights into both the sport and the sustenance aspects of the activity.

Her treatise on angling is not just a mere instruction manual; it is a comprehensive guide that details fishing destinations, the construction of rods and lines, and the selection of natural baits and artificial fly dressings. What makes her work stand out, however, are the essays on conservation, respecting the rights of streamside landowners, and angler’s etiquette—concepts that were centuries ahead of their time.

Dame Julianna Berners’ treatise, “A Treatyse of Fysshynge wyth an Angle,” is a treasure trove of fishing knowledge from the 15th century. Some of the fishing techniques she wrote about include:

• Making a Telescoping Fishing Rod: She described how to create a fishing rod that could be extended or shortened, which was quite innovative for her time.
• Line and Hook Construction: Berners provided detailed instructions on how to craft lines and hooks for fishing, ensuring that anglers were well-equipped with the necessary tools.

• Bait Selection: Her work includes guidance on selecting natural baits and the preparation of artificial flies, with specific dressings categorized by the season for their best use.
• Fishing Etiquette: Perhaps most notably, she emphasized the importance of conservation—principles that are still part of the ethical foundation of sport fishing today.

These techniques and principles laid out by Dame Julianna Berners not only provide historical insight into the sport of angling but also continue to influence modern fishing practices. Her work remains a significant contribution to the world of fishing literature.

Angling, as a pastime during the medieval period, was generally not common among women. The societal norms and roles of the time typically excluded women from professional fishing. However, there is evidence that women did engage in fishing or setting traps to sustain themselves and their families. While they were not the face of the profession, women and children often played supportive roles in the fishing business, such as untangling and mending fishnets.

Dame Julianna Berners stands out as an exceptional figure against this backdrop, not only for her involvement in angling but also for her contributions to the literature of the sport. Her work suggests that while it may not have been widespread, women’s participation in angling did occur and could be recognized and respected, especially in the context of leisure and sport among the nobility.

There is no specific historical record of Dame Julianna Berners facing criticism for her interest in fishing. The available information suggests that she was a respected figure in her time, and her work on angling was well-regarded. As a noblewoman and prioress, her involvement in outdoor sports such as hunting and fishing was likely seen as a reflection of her status and education.

Her treatise, “A Treatyse of Fysshynge wyth an Angle,” is celebrated for her detailed and forward-thinking approach to the sport of angling. It’s worth noting that the societal norms of the 15th century did not typically encourage women to write either, yet Berners’ work has endured for centuries and is still referenced today. While some may have viewed her pursuits as unconventional, the lasting impact of her work suggests that any criticism did not overshadow her contributions to the literature and practice of fishing.

Despite the scarcity of concrete details about her life, Dame Julianna Berners’ legacy endures, particularly in the world of sport fishing. Her insights and foresight have made “A Treatyse of Fysshynge wyth an Angle” a seminal work, predating Izaak Walton’s “The Compleat Angler” by approximately 150 years. Today, numerous women’s fly-fishing clubs and associations across the United States and Europe bear her name, honoring her as a pioneer of angling literature.

Dame Julianna Berners stands as a testament to the enduring nature of knowledge and passion. Her work not only provides a window into the pastimes of medieval England but also offers timeless wisdom that continues to resonate with anglers around the world. As we cast our lines into the waters, we partake in a tradition that has been lovingly chronicled by this remarkable woman of history.