Antares Trophy 24/9/16
what a difference a week makes as 7 of the hardest bank league anglers gathered last Saturday morning at Tingwall boat shed. for the conclusion of the bank league Trophys the legendary ANTARES trophy was up for grabs, gone was the warm southerly breeze, replaced with 50 knot winds and driving rain! competitors were all very guarded as to where they were going in their last quest for glory this year. none more so than the crafty cockney Dave wright and the indomitable Leslie Barclay who both Tryed to get into mark Sandisons head, but the legendary Sandison was having none of it and with a grin on his face was the most circumspect angler before the starting gun, Anglers were just about to head off to the 4 corners of Shetland when a tractor drove bye the farmer shouted out his window yer aff your heads! which lightened the charged atmosphere before the off, despite knowing full well the arduous challenge that lay ahead the anglers soon were heading of like the wacky races north south east and west. it was 7 weather beaten weary anglers that gathered at the nesting junction at 16.30 there was fish caught from a plethora of lochs, on the mainland in 3rd place was the ever consistent ian"hot"rod reid with 5 fish for 3lb 4oz. ians top fly was an alex miller muddler,in 2nd place was the "incredible" bobby irvine whos athleticism saw him fishing 8 lochs on the day from clousta to grass water 7 fish for 4lb 11oz .bobbys killing fly was a stingy bee halfhog, in first place for the 2nd week running was "marvelous" mark sandison with an exceptional basket of 18 trout for 10lb 13oz which included a specimen of 2lb .marks top fly was a bibio hedgehog, mark was shadowed to the deep south bye leslie , but after fishing a loch close to mark that leslie likened to fishing in beef stew! made the decision to move thinking both lochs would be unfishable, leaving mark with all the fish.. other successfull anglers were billy reid, greg anderson,dave wright, and leslie barclay,, mark and bobby have become the real madrids and barcelonas off the bank league in the last 3 years and will take some stopping next year, but they know the competitions so strong behind them that they will have to improve as well, which the deadly duo have mastered to a fine art! one things for sure billy, darren, peter, and ian etc will be right up for the challenge next year, maybe the often unlucky leslie barclay makes some correct decisions next year and does a leicester and fullfills his undoubted talent! one things for sure ..it wont be boreing TIGHT LINES EVERYBODY.
L.B.
what a difference a week makes as 7 of the hardest bank league anglers gathered last Saturday morning at Tingwall boat shed. for the conclusion of the bank league Trophys the legendary ANTARES trophy was up for grabs, gone was the warm southerly breeze, replaced with 50 knot winds and driving rain! competitors were all very guarded as to where they were going in their last quest for glory this year. none more so than the crafty cockney Dave wright and the indomitable Leslie Barclay who both Tryed to get into mark Sandisons head, but the legendary Sandison was having none of it and with a grin on his face was the most circumspect angler before the starting gun, Anglers were just about to head off to the 4 corners of Shetland when a tractor drove bye the farmer shouted out his window yer aff your heads! which lightened the charged atmosphere before the off, despite knowing full well the arduous challenge that lay ahead the anglers soon were heading of like the wacky races north south east and west. it was 7 weather beaten weary anglers that gathered at the nesting junction at 16.30 there was fish caught from a plethora of lochs, on the mainland in 3rd place was the ever consistent ian"hot"rod reid with 5 fish for 3lb 4oz. ians top fly was an alex miller muddler,in 2nd place was the "incredible" bobby irvine whos athleticism saw him fishing 8 lochs on the day from clousta to grass water 7 fish for 4lb 11oz .bobbys killing fly was a stingy bee halfhog, in first place for the 2nd week running was "marvelous" mark sandison with an exceptional basket of 18 trout for 10lb 13oz which included a specimen of 2lb .marks top fly was a bibio hedgehog, mark was shadowed to the deep south bye leslie , but after fishing a loch close to mark that leslie likened to fishing in beef stew! made the decision to move thinking both lochs would be unfishable, leaving mark with all the fish.. other successfull anglers were billy reid, greg anderson,dave wright, and leslie barclay,, mark and bobby have become the real madrids and barcelonas off the bank league in the last 3 years and will take some stopping next year, but they know the competitions so strong behind them that they will have to improve as well, which the deadly duo have mastered to a fine art! one things for sure billy, darren, peter, and ian etc will be right up for the challenge next year, maybe the often unlucky leslie barclay makes some correct decisions next year and does a leicester and fullfills his undoubted talent! one things for sure ..it wont be boreing TIGHT LINES EVERYBODY.
L.B.
Research Trophy 17/9/16
15 excited flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning to fish for the famous and much sought after "Research Trophy." This was also a charity event and all the big guns were out in force including Magnie Reid, Dave Wright, Johnnie Laurenson and the Sandison brothers - Harry, Jeemie and Bobby. It was not only a moment to savour but also one for the history books as is not often that such a formidable array of legendary Shetland flyfishers are gathered together in one place.
The overcast conditions with a warm Southerly breeze would leave little room for complaint among the anglers. In fact it was probably the best "trooty" Saturday that we have had in the past month or so.
As always there was a great deal of banter among the assembled throng as competitors tried to give away as little as possible about their intentions for the day with a couple of red herrings, mistruths and downright lies thrown in for good measure.
One angler of course who is adept at these mind games while giving away very little of his own plans is the poker faced Leslie Barclay. However on this occasion Leslie wasn't really "on point" as he was otherwise engaged trying to mend a hole in his super sized landing net. Luckily for Les it was Kevin Robertson to the rescue with a handful of cable ties. Once Barclay's net was back in working order we were good to go.
The jungle drums have been unusually quiet recently which meant that anglers choice of lochs today would be a bit of a lottery with nowhere really "setting the heather alight" of late.
The sound of Billy Reid's starting horn at 1030 saw anglers shooting off to the four points of the compass in search of the elusive Shetland brown trout, and with a little luck, enough of them to secure the trophy.
The conditions remained favourable for the duration of the day and as competitors reassembled at the Tingwall shed for the 1730 weigh it was clear that some good baskets had been forthcoming.
Taking first place and the "Research Trophy" was a clearly delighted Mark Sandison with 22 fish from the "Deep South" for 14lb, 3 & 3/4 oz. His bag also included the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 14 oz. The lucky Sandison, who had encountered a couple of shoals of cruising fish, had scored with a "Bibio Hedgehog."
Runner up position went to Darren Laurenson with a superb basket of ten trout out of Tingwall for 7 lb, 2 & 1/2 oz. Darren's killing fly was a "Terry's Terror" from the vice of Burra fly fishing expert Terry Laurenson.
In third place was Harry Sandison with an excellent eight fish from the North mainland for 6 lb, 3 oz. Harry's basket included a beauty going 1 lb, 9 oz. and his top fly was a "Clan Chief Variant."
Fourth spot went to the ever consistent Billy Reid who had fished the "Wild West" for eight trout weighing 4 lb, 15 & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Peach Half Hog."
However on a day like this everyone was a winner and other successful anglers included Bobby Irvine, Dave Wright, Kevin Robertson, Frank Watt, Magnus Reid, Tony Li, Bobby Sandison, Leslie Barclay, Michael Williamson and Jeemie Sandison.
All that remained now was for a photograph of the winners to be organised. Fortunately Leslie Barclay was on hand to get everyone sorted out and arranged in a photogenic manner. Leslie displayed an instinctive and natural skill in this department - not only in getting his reluctant subjects organized but also with his adept handling of the camera - and several spectators were heard to suggest that Barclay had perhaps missed his vocation!
An S.A.A. spokesman noted what a successful day it had been and thanked the "Research" for their continued sponsorship of the event and for providing prizes.
On the day £250 was raised for charity. This will go forward to be added to moneys raised at the S.A.A. presentation evening where the fly box containing all this year's competition killers will be raffled.
The final bank competition of the year is the "Antares Trophy" which will be fished for on Saturday 24th September. Check in is at 10.00 at either Tingwall or Laxo while the weigh in will be at the Nesting juntion at 16.30.
15 excited flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning to fish for the famous and much sought after "Research Trophy." This was also a charity event and all the big guns were out in force including Magnie Reid, Dave Wright, Johnnie Laurenson and the Sandison brothers - Harry, Jeemie and Bobby. It was not only a moment to savour but also one for the history books as is not often that such a formidable array of legendary Shetland flyfishers are gathered together in one place.
The overcast conditions with a warm Southerly breeze would leave little room for complaint among the anglers. In fact it was probably the best "trooty" Saturday that we have had in the past month or so.
As always there was a great deal of banter among the assembled throng as competitors tried to give away as little as possible about their intentions for the day with a couple of red herrings, mistruths and downright lies thrown in for good measure.
One angler of course who is adept at these mind games while giving away very little of his own plans is the poker faced Leslie Barclay. However on this occasion Leslie wasn't really "on point" as he was otherwise engaged trying to mend a hole in his super sized landing net. Luckily for Les it was Kevin Robertson to the rescue with a handful of cable ties. Once Barclay's net was back in working order we were good to go.
The jungle drums have been unusually quiet recently which meant that anglers choice of lochs today would be a bit of a lottery with nowhere really "setting the heather alight" of late.
The sound of Billy Reid's starting horn at 1030 saw anglers shooting off to the four points of the compass in search of the elusive Shetland brown trout, and with a little luck, enough of them to secure the trophy.
The conditions remained favourable for the duration of the day and as competitors reassembled at the Tingwall shed for the 1730 weigh it was clear that some good baskets had been forthcoming.
Taking first place and the "Research Trophy" was a clearly delighted Mark Sandison with 22 fish from the "Deep South" for 14lb, 3 & 3/4 oz. His bag also included the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 14 oz. The lucky Sandison, who had encountered a couple of shoals of cruising fish, had scored with a "Bibio Hedgehog."
Runner up position went to Darren Laurenson with a superb basket of ten trout out of Tingwall for 7 lb, 2 & 1/2 oz. Darren's killing fly was a "Terry's Terror" from the vice of Burra fly fishing expert Terry Laurenson.
In third place was Harry Sandison with an excellent eight fish from the North mainland for 6 lb, 3 oz. Harry's basket included a beauty going 1 lb, 9 oz. and his top fly was a "Clan Chief Variant."
Fourth spot went to the ever consistent Billy Reid who had fished the "Wild West" for eight trout weighing 4 lb, 15 & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Peach Half Hog."
However on a day like this everyone was a winner and other successful anglers included Bobby Irvine, Dave Wright, Kevin Robertson, Frank Watt, Magnus Reid, Tony Li, Bobby Sandison, Leslie Barclay, Michael Williamson and Jeemie Sandison.
All that remained now was for a photograph of the winners to be organised. Fortunately Leslie Barclay was on hand to get everyone sorted out and arranged in a photogenic manner. Leslie displayed an instinctive and natural skill in this department - not only in getting his reluctant subjects organized but also with his adept handling of the camera - and several spectators were heard to suggest that Barclay had perhaps missed his vocation!
An S.A.A. spokesman noted what a successful day it had been and thanked the "Research" for their continued sponsorship of the event and for providing prizes.
On the day £250 was raised for charity. This will go forward to be added to moneys raised at the S.A.A. presentation evening where the fly box containing all this year's competition killers will be raffled.
The final bank competition of the year is the "Antares Trophy" which will be fished for on Saturday 24th September. Check in is at 10.00 at either Tingwall or Laxo while the weigh in will be at the Nesting juntion at 16.30.
Pairs Trophy 10-9-16
A day of blazing sunshine and Southerly gales was far from ideal for the S.A.A. pairs trophy which was held last Saturday.
In the weeks leading up to this competition the phone lines had been hot as anglers tried to hook up with their ideal fishing partner. Despite the terrible trooty conditions some pretty tasty looking partnerships rocked up at the Tingwall boat shed for the 1030 check in.
A team who looked like they could do a great deal of damage was that of Billy Reid and Leslie Barclay. Billy had been sure to complete a risk assessment, draw up an indemnity clause and increase his life insurance before setting out with the bullet proof but accident prone Barclay.
Young guns Darren Laurenson and Luke Johnson looked like a very formidable partnership, as did the Bonnie Isle pairing of Ian Reid and Greg Anderson.
Jeemie Sandison and Magnie Reid would be capable of great things if they could bring their considerable experience to bear on the event and not treat the occasion like a glorified picnic!
Tony Li had hooked up with Mark Sandison. However there was no doubt that the team to beat and odds on favourites were last year's champions Bobby Irvine and Kevin Robertson.
The 1030 start saw anglers shooting off to all corners of the Shetland mainland for what was going to be a long a hard day's fly fishing.
Seven hours later a dozen exhausted anglers returned for the weigh in where it transpired that some quite commendable baskets had been forthcoming despite the awful conditions.
In sixth place place were Darren Laurenson and Luke Johnson with two fish for 15 & 1/4 oz. while Jeemie Sandison and Magnie Reid took fifth place with one fish for 1 lb, 9 & 3/4 oz. Fourth spot went to Tony Li and Mark Sandison with five trout for 4 lb exactly. This included the heaviest fish of the day from Tony Li at 1 lb, 12 oz.
In third place were Ian Reid and Greg Anderson with seven fish from the West Side for 4 lb, 3 oz.
Runners up were Billy Reid and Leslie Barclay who had done a tour of the North Mainland for 13 trout going 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz.
This meant that the winners of the Pairs Trophy for the second year running were Bobby Irvine and Kevin Robertson with eleven fish from the West Side for 6 lb, 14 & 1/2 oz. This is yet another piece of silverware to add to Bobby's haul in what has been a outstanding season for the Whalsay veteran.
There was a hearty round of applause for the two champs as everyone was well aware of just how difficult the angling had been.
Various flies were mentioned in despatches including "Clan Chief," "Peach Muddler," "Hedgehogs," "Liquorice Allsort" and "Hammel's Spider."
Hats off to Leslie Barclay who had managed to make it through the day without any major mishaps. This couldn't last however and he now shot off home with his fly rod still securely fastened to the racks on Billy's pick up and his box of prize flies on the passenger seat. Mark Sandison agreed to convey both rod and fly box back to Lerwick where they could be reunited with Leslie but not before Sandison had helped himself to a couple of Barclay's killing flies.
The next bank competition is the famous "Research Trophy" which takes place on Saturday 17th September with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall shed. Will competitors please note that the entry fee will be £10 which will go to charity.
A day of blazing sunshine and Southerly gales was far from ideal for the S.A.A. pairs trophy which was held last Saturday.
In the weeks leading up to this competition the phone lines had been hot as anglers tried to hook up with their ideal fishing partner. Despite the terrible trooty conditions some pretty tasty looking partnerships rocked up at the Tingwall boat shed for the 1030 check in.
A team who looked like they could do a great deal of damage was that of Billy Reid and Leslie Barclay. Billy had been sure to complete a risk assessment, draw up an indemnity clause and increase his life insurance before setting out with the bullet proof but accident prone Barclay.
Young guns Darren Laurenson and Luke Johnson looked like a very formidable partnership, as did the Bonnie Isle pairing of Ian Reid and Greg Anderson.
Jeemie Sandison and Magnie Reid would be capable of great things if they could bring their considerable experience to bear on the event and not treat the occasion like a glorified picnic!
Tony Li had hooked up with Mark Sandison. However there was no doubt that the team to beat and odds on favourites were last year's champions Bobby Irvine and Kevin Robertson.
The 1030 start saw anglers shooting off to all corners of the Shetland mainland for what was going to be a long a hard day's fly fishing.
Seven hours later a dozen exhausted anglers returned for the weigh in where it transpired that some quite commendable baskets had been forthcoming despite the awful conditions.
In sixth place place were Darren Laurenson and Luke Johnson with two fish for 15 & 1/4 oz. while Jeemie Sandison and Magnie Reid took fifth place with one fish for 1 lb, 9 & 3/4 oz. Fourth spot went to Tony Li and Mark Sandison with five trout for 4 lb exactly. This included the heaviest fish of the day from Tony Li at 1 lb, 12 oz.
In third place were Ian Reid and Greg Anderson with seven fish from the West Side for 4 lb, 3 oz.
Runners up were Billy Reid and Leslie Barclay who had done a tour of the North Mainland for 13 trout going 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz.
This meant that the winners of the Pairs Trophy for the second year running were Bobby Irvine and Kevin Robertson with eleven fish from the West Side for 6 lb, 14 & 1/2 oz. This is yet another piece of silverware to add to Bobby's haul in what has been a outstanding season for the Whalsay veteran.
There was a hearty round of applause for the two champs as everyone was well aware of just how difficult the angling had been.
Various flies were mentioned in despatches including "Clan Chief," "Peach Muddler," "Hedgehogs," "Liquorice Allsort" and "Hammel's Spider."
Hats off to Leslie Barclay who had managed to make it through the day without any major mishaps. This couldn't last however and he now shot off home with his fly rod still securely fastened to the racks on Billy's pick up and his box of prize flies on the passenger seat. Mark Sandison agreed to convey both rod and fly box back to Lerwick where they could be reunited with Leslie but not before Sandison had helped himself to a couple of Barclay's killing flies.
The next bank competition is the famous "Research Trophy" which takes place on Saturday 17th September with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall shed. Will competitors please note that the entry fee will be £10 which will go to charity.
"Sandison - Irvine Westside Trophy." - 12/8/16
Last Saturday saw the final round of the S.A.A. Bank League take place. This was almost a dead rubber with Bobby Irvine already having wrapped up the championship, and the top six league places, which would mean a place in next year's bank team, just about decided. A win for Tony Li however would see him overtake Ian Reid in sixth place.
With this being the final league competition though the much sought after "Sandison - Irvine" trophy was up for grabs and this of course had generated a deal of interest. So much interest in fact that there were a few raised eyebrows when big fish specialist John Laurenson made his first appearance at a bank competition in many a long year.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the indomitable Leslie Barclay. A text message from Barclay to S.A.A. officials Sandison and Reid soon cleared things up however. Leslie had slept in after attending a wedding the previous evening and would definitely be competing once he got himself organised. This is typical of the never say die attitude that marks out bank league flyfishers and Barclay in particular!
Anglers had a wide choice of lochs in the Clousta Road and Westside. On paper at least this should be one of the most prolific trooty areas in Shetland. However as all fly fishers know troots aren't caught on paper and these lochs can be just as tricky as anywhere else in Shetland. So despite the excitement and keenness to get going anglers were under no illusion that it could end up being a difficult day.
Most early efforts were concentrated on the mighty Vaara where initially the trout were in a cooperative mood. This wouldn't last though and most anglers were soon putting their "plan B" into effect. This would mean moving on to another loch on the list.
As anglers reconvened for the 1745 weigh in it transpired that sport had been very good in many of the lochs on offer.
There was a bit of pressure on competition secretary Billy Reid from Alastair Jamieson to get the weigh underway as he had to get home for his dinner. Once Alastair's fish were weighed however then things could proceed at a more leisurely pace.
Taking first place and the "Sandison - Irvine Trophy" was the ever incredible Bobby Irvine with a superb basket of 14 trout for 8 lb, 15 & 1/4 oz. Bobby had divided his time between Vaara and Clousta and his top fly was a "Peach Muddler." This victory caps a great season for Bobby as he has only dropped four points throughout the entire league campaign finishing on an unprecedented 146 points. Almost a "full house!"
Runner up was Mark Sandison who weighed in nine fish for 5 lb, 6 & 3/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Clan Chief."
Third spot went to Billy Reid with ten trout for 5 lb, 7 oz. Billy had scored with a "Mayfly Hedgehog."
Other successful anglers were Darren Laurenson, Greg Anderson, Harry Sandison, Tony Li, Luke Johnson, Dave Wright, Alastair Jamieson, John Laurenson, Robert Scougall and Leslie Barclay.
Special mention must go yet again to the resolute Leslie Barclay who despite having turned up with hardly any tackle - only one cast and two flies - still managed to weigh in a fish.
This means that the final league table for 2016 is as follows.
Last Saturday saw the final round of the S.A.A. Bank League take place. This was almost a dead rubber with Bobby Irvine already having wrapped up the championship, and the top six league places, which would mean a place in next year's bank team, just about decided. A win for Tony Li however would see him overtake Ian Reid in sixth place.
With this being the final league competition though the much sought after "Sandison - Irvine" trophy was up for grabs and this of course had generated a deal of interest. So much interest in fact that there were a few raised eyebrows when big fish specialist John Laurenson made his first appearance at a bank competition in many a long year.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the indomitable Leslie Barclay. A text message from Barclay to S.A.A. officials Sandison and Reid soon cleared things up however. Leslie had slept in after attending a wedding the previous evening and would definitely be competing once he got himself organised. This is typical of the never say die attitude that marks out bank league flyfishers and Barclay in particular!
Anglers had a wide choice of lochs in the Clousta Road and Westside. On paper at least this should be one of the most prolific trooty areas in Shetland. However as all fly fishers know troots aren't caught on paper and these lochs can be just as tricky as anywhere else in Shetland. So despite the excitement and keenness to get going anglers were under no illusion that it could end up being a difficult day.
Most early efforts were concentrated on the mighty Vaara where initially the trout were in a cooperative mood. This wouldn't last though and most anglers were soon putting their "plan B" into effect. This would mean moving on to another loch on the list.
As anglers reconvened for the 1745 weigh in it transpired that sport had been very good in many of the lochs on offer.
There was a bit of pressure on competition secretary Billy Reid from Alastair Jamieson to get the weigh underway as he had to get home for his dinner. Once Alastair's fish were weighed however then things could proceed at a more leisurely pace.
Taking first place and the "Sandison - Irvine Trophy" was the ever incredible Bobby Irvine with a superb basket of 14 trout for 8 lb, 15 & 1/4 oz. Bobby had divided his time between Vaara and Clousta and his top fly was a "Peach Muddler." This victory caps a great season for Bobby as he has only dropped four points throughout the entire league campaign finishing on an unprecedented 146 points. Almost a "full house!"
Runner up was Mark Sandison who weighed in nine fish for 5 lb, 6 & 3/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Clan Chief."
Third spot went to Billy Reid with ten trout for 5 lb, 7 oz. Billy had scored with a "Mayfly Hedgehog."
Other successful anglers were Darren Laurenson, Greg Anderson, Harry Sandison, Tony Li, Luke Johnson, Dave Wright, Alastair Jamieson, John Laurenson, Robert Scougall and Leslie Barclay.
Special mention must go yet again to the resolute Leslie Barclay who despite having turned up with hardly any tackle - only one cast and two flies - still managed to weigh in a fish.
This means that the final league table for 2016 is as follows.
Despite this being the last bank league competition of the year, fly fishing competition junkies need not despair as there are still several events to look forward to. The ever popular pairs competition takes place on Saturday 10th September with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall shed. Competitors are reminded that they need to sort out their own partner for this one and that none of the top six league finishers can fish together. Then Saturday 17th September sees a new addition to the competition programme when the world famous "Research Trophy" will be fished for. Again this is a 1030 check in at the Tingwall shed.
And finally the season will be rounded off on Saturday 24th September with the "Antares Trophy." Flyfishers can check in at 10.00 either at Laxo or Tingwall. The weigh in will be at 1630 at the Nesting junction.
And finally the season will be rounded off on Saturday 24th September with the "Antares Trophy." Flyfishers can check in at 10.00 either at Laxo or Tingwall. The weigh in will be at 1630 at the Nesting junction.
"Mayfly Hog." "Peach Muddler." "Clan Chief."
Excursion Trophy 6-8-16
On a day better suited to the beach than fly fishing ten anglers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning to fish for the "Excursion Trophy."
Looking resplendent in new top of the range breathable waders were Jeemie Sandison and Dave Wright. It was up to Harry Sandison to provide a degree of authenticity as he pulled on his own battered and heavily aquasured pair! The threesome would have looked very much at home in a gentleman's outdoor clothing catalogue.
Anglers had a choice of any loch which wasn't listed on the competition sheet. Sounds easy but in actual fact a lot of scratching of heads had taken place prior to the event in order to come up with suitable venues. The blazing sun wasn't helping matters as competitors motored off from the Tingwall shed at 1030.
A hard, and for some, sweaty day's angling followed with most having nothing to show for their efforts. The Mediterranean conditions had ensured that the angling had been almost impossible. As a result half the competitors had headed home at various stages throughout the day for an early bath. This meant that only five hardy souls were present at the 1745 weigh in. And it has to be said that this was the poorest weigh in at an S.A.A. competition in many a long year.
"Cometh the hour cometh the man" however and taking first place and the "Excursion Trophy" was a clearly delighted Jeemie Sandison with three fish weighing 2lb, 2 & 1/2 oz. This included the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 4 & 1/4 oz. taken from a top secret location in the North Mainland. Jeemie was a popular winner who received a huge round of applause from all present.
Second place went to Billy Reid who had two fish for 1 lb, 5 oz. and in third place was Dave Wright with one fish for 1 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz - a fantastic achievement considering the conditions. Both Billy and Dave's fish also came from top secret locations in the North Mainland.
There is an old fly fishing adage which goes "bright day - bright fly" and the three boys weighing in had obviously remembered this as they all scored with brightly coloured hedgehogs.
Another two anglers who have to be mentioned in despatches were the "hard as nails" Alastair Jamieson and Leslie Barclay who had also managed to stick it out to the end.
The next fly bank event is the final round of the league which takes place on Saturday 13th August with a 1030 check in at the Bixter Graveyard. Although the championship has already been decided and the top six almost decided (Tony Li will be looking for a top spot) the much coveted "Sandison - Irvine Trophy" will be up for grabs.
On a day better suited to the beach than fly fishing ten anglers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning to fish for the "Excursion Trophy."
Looking resplendent in new top of the range breathable waders were Jeemie Sandison and Dave Wright. It was up to Harry Sandison to provide a degree of authenticity as he pulled on his own battered and heavily aquasured pair! The threesome would have looked very much at home in a gentleman's outdoor clothing catalogue.
Anglers had a choice of any loch which wasn't listed on the competition sheet. Sounds easy but in actual fact a lot of scratching of heads had taken place prior to the event in order to come up with suitable venues. The blazing sun wasn't helping matters as competitors motored off from the Tingwall shed at 1030.
A hard, and for some, sweaty day's angling followed with most having nothing to show for their efforts. The Mediterranean conditions had ensured that the angling had been almost impossible. As a result half the competitors had headed home at various stages throughout the day for an early bath. This meant that only five hardy souls were present at the 1745 weigh in. And it has to be said that this was the poorest weigh in at an S.A.A. competition in many a long year.
"Cometh the hour cometh the man" however and taking first place and the "Excursion Trophy" was a clearly delighted Jeemie Sandison with three fish weighing 2lb, 2 & 1/2 oz. This included the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 4 & 1/4 oz. taken from a top secret location in the North Mainland. Jeemie was a popular winner who received a huge round of applause from all present.
Second place went to Billy Reid who had two fish for 1 lb, 5 oz. and in third place was Dave Wright with one fish for 1 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz - a fantastic achievement considering the conditions. Both Billy and Dave's fish also came from top secret locations in the North Mainland.
There is an old fly fishing adage which goes "bright day - bright fly" and the three boys weighing in had obviously remembered this as they all scored with brightly coloured hedgehogs.
Another two anglers who have to be mentioned in despatches were the "hard as nails" Alastair Jamieson and Leslie Barclay who had also managed to stick it out to the end.
The next fly bank event is the final round of the league which takes place on Saturday 13th August with a 1030 check in at the Bixter Graveyard. Although the championship has already been decided and the top six almost decided (Tony Li will be looking for a top spot) the much coveted "Sandison - Irvine Trophy" will be up for grabs.
Northmavine 23-7-16
Flyfishers gathered at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning for the penultimate round of the S.A.A. fly bank league.
For a change it wasn't flies, trout and the weather forecast that were top of the agenda but rather knitting machines! A knitting machine and stand had to be transported from "Da Shoard" charity shop in Whalsay to young knitting enthusiast Emma Sandison in Lerwick. This had developed into a major logistical exercise involving Jacqueline and Bobby Irvine, Mark Sandison, Billy Reid and his pick up. Once all the knitting paraphernalia had been organised and stashed in vehicles for the trip back to Lerwick it was time to get on with the serious business of the day.
Leslie Barclay had seemingly made a miraculous recovery from his injury over the past few days announcing that he would be present at the competition and ready for action. However with ten minutes to go before the start of the competition there was no sign of the intrepid Barclay. Then with a screech of tyres Leslie came flying into the Mavis Grind carpark. And of course there was a tail of woe involving loose rod racks, fishing rods on the hard shoulder, broken fly lines, slowed traffic, horns and hazard warning lights. Leslie received lots of sympathy from his audience and it was great to see him back on form and on the road to recovery.
Anglers had little to complain about as far as the weather was concerned with a gentle Southerly breeze, overcast conditions and car thermometers reading 16 degrees. All the main lochs in Noth Mainland were on offer and competitors were soon shooting off to the five corners of Northmavine.
Most of the early efforts concentrated on the roadside lochs of Punds Water and Eela Water and in the first hour and a half some rods could be seen bent into fish. However as the Southerly breeze died and the wind became cyclonic, veering around all points of the compass, the angling became very tricky. This was reflected in the sight of anglers motoring between lochs in search of that all important fish.
After a long hard day it transpired at the 1745 weigh that the angling had indeed been difficult.
Sneaking into first place after taking three lucky fish in the last hour was Mark Sandison. Sandison's bag contained seven trout for 3 lb, 3 & 1/4 oz. and his top fly was a small "Kate McClaren."
Hot on his heals was Darren Laurenson who can do no wrong at the moment. Darren had six trout for 3 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Pearly Claret Snatcher."
Third place went to Bobby Irvine with four fish for 2 lb, 12 oz. Bobby's basket also contained the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 1 oz. Bobby's successful fly was a "Norski Peach Hedgehog."
Other anglers gaining valuable points were Graeme Callander, Leslie Barclay, Billy Reid, Peter Laurenson, Tony Li, Harry Sandison, Dave Wright and Greg Anderson.
With one competition remaining this leaves the league as follows:
Flyfishers gathered at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning for the penultimate round of the S.A.A. fly bank league.
For a change it wasn't flies, trout and the weather forecast that were top of the agenda but rather knitting machines! A knitting machine and stand had to be transported from "Da Shoard" charity shop in Whalsay to young knitting enthusiast Emma Sandison in Lerwick. This had developed into a major logistical exercise involving Jacqueline and Bobby Irvine, Mark Sandison, Billy Reid and his pick up. Once all the knitting paraphernalia had been organised and stashed in vehicles for the trip back to Lerwick it was time to get on with the serious business of the day.
Leslie Barclay had seemingly made a miraculous recovery from his injury over the past few days announcing that he would be present at the competition and ready for action. However with ten minutes to go before the start of the competition there was no sign of the intrepid Barclay. Then with a screech of tyres Leslie came flying into the Mavis Grind carpark. And of course there was a tail of woe involving loose rod racks, fishing rods on the hard shoulder, broken fly lines, slowed traffic, horns and hazard warning lights. Leslie received lots of sympathy from his audience and it was great to see him back on form and on the road to recovery.
Anglers had little to complain about as far as the weather was concerned with a gentle Southerly breeze, overcast conditions and car thermometers reading 16 degrees. All the main lochs in Noth Mainland were on offer and competitors were soon shooting off to the five corners of Northmavine.
Most of the early efforts concentrated on the roadside lochs of Punds Water and Eela Water and in the first hour and a half some rods could be seen bent into fish. However as the Southerly breeze died and the wind became cyclonic, veering around all points of the compass, the angling became very tricky. This was reflected in the sight of anglers motoring between lochs in search of that all important fish.
After a long hard day it transpired at the 1745 weigh that the angling had indeed been difficult.
Sneaking into first place after taking three lucky fish in the last hour was Mark Sandison. Sandison's bag contained seven trout for 3 lb, 3 & 1/4 oz. and his top fly was a small "Kate McClaren."
Hot on his heals was Darren Laurenson who can do no wrong at the moment. Darren had six trout for 3 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Pearly Claret Snatcher."
Third place went to Bobby Irvine with four fish for 2 lb, 12 oz. Bobby's basket also contained the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 1 oz. Bobby's successful fly was a "Norski Peach Hedgehog."
Other anglers gaining valuable points were Graeme Callander, Leslie Barclay, Billy Reid, Peter Laurenson, Tony Li, Harry Sandison, Dave Wright and Greg Anderson.
With one competition remaining this leaves the league as follows:
Bobby Irvine's third place was enough to see him secure the championship and crowned S.A.A. Fly Bank League Champion for 2016. Bobby has come to dominate fly bank competitions in recent seasons and continues to set the standard for everyone else to meet. Winning the S.A.A. Bank League is one of the pinnacles of Fly Fishing in Shetland as it demonstrates an ability to be adaptable and utilise a variety of tactics on different lochs and conditions throughout the season. Well done Bobby!
After an extremely hard day's angling all anglers headed home to order their preferred style of Fair Isle Ganzie for next year's competitions.
The next Fly bank competition is the excursion trophy which takes place on Saturday 6th August with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall shed. This is followed on Saturday 13th August by the final round of the Bank League. This is bound to a popular event since as well as several team places still being up for grabs the Sandison/Irvine trophy will go to the winner. Check in is at 1030 at the Bixter Graveyard.
On a separate note S.A.A. members were saddened recently at the passing of Barry Robertson. As well as captaining the S.A.A. bank team on several occasions Barry was a competition stalwart and very much the life and soul of any fly fishing gathering. He was a great character who had time for everyone. Barry will be a great miss and our thoughts are with the family at this time.
After an extremely hard day's angling all anglers headed home to order their preferred style of Fair Isle Ganzie for next year's competitions.
The next Fly bank competition is the excursion trophy which takes place on Saturday 6th August with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall shed. This is followed on Saturday 13th August by the final round of the Bank League. This is bound to a popular event since as well as several team places still being up for grabs the Sandison/Irvine trophy will go to the winner. Check in is at 1030 at the Bixter Graveyard.
On a separate note S.A.A. members were saddened recently at the passing of Barry Robertson. As well as captaining the S.A.A. bank team on several occasions Barry was a competition stalwart and very much the life and soul of any fly fishing gathering. He was a great character who had time for everyone. Barry will be a great miss and our thoughts are with the family at this time.
"Kate McClaren." "Pearly Claret Snatcher." "Norski Peach Hedgehog."
S.A.A. v D.F.F.A. - July 2016
Last weekend the Shetland Anglers Association (S.A.A.) fly fishing bank team consisting of Jeemie Sandison (capt.), Billy Reid, Bobby Irvine, Tony Li, Darren Laurenson and Mark Sandison travelled down to Caithness for their annual match with the Dounreay Fly Fishing Association (D.F.F.A.).
Just before their departure the S.A.A. team had been rocked by the news that their main man Leslie Barclay had had to pull out due to injury. The charismatic and indomitable Barclay would be a big miss. However the rest of the boys need not have feared as veteran Jeemie Sandison was ready to step into the breach and assume the captain's armband.
Under Jeemie's direction the S.A.A. team had a days angling and bonding session in Orkney before travelling across the Pentland Firth to meet their old friends and adversaries from the D.F.F.A.
After greetings and news had been exchanged and friendships rekindled it was down to the serious business of getting the draw done for the competition which would take place over the next two days. This would see an S.A.A. team member fishing with a D.F.F.A. team member on the Friday on a particular selection of Lochs and then with a different partner on different waters on the Saturday. As ever the draw threw up some very tasty looking partnerships.
It was then an early night for all as everybody was going to have to be at the very top of their game for the next two days intensive fly fishing.
The prospects for Friday were not good with heavy rain forecast for the afternoon. It was now that Jeemie earned his money as he found the right words to motivate the team, for as he was quick to point out, "the rain would definitely dampen spirits!"
Despite the poor forecast Friday morning saw both teams tackled up and champing at the bit to get going for the 9 a.m. start. The partnerships were soon shooting off to the various corners of Caithness. There was a period of torrential rain in the afternoon which perhaps did put the fish down for a spell just before the 1630 "lines up" time. As anglers reconvened at former Yell man Bill Robertson's garage however it was clear that several good bags of trout had been caught and also that the two teams were very close.
Best for the S.A.A. was the ever incredible Bobby Irvine with 15 fish from the hill lochs of Seilge and Caorach for 8 lb, 15 oz. and debutante, young Darren Laurenson who also had fifteen for 8 lb, 14 oz. from Toftingall. Bobby had success with a "Norstane Lad" while Darren had scored with a "Peach Hedgehog."
Top for the D.F.F.A. was the ever consistent Tony Chalmers who had 13 from Olginey for 9 lb, 1 & 1/2 oz. and Bill Robertson who had eleven from Caorach for 8 lb, 2 & 1/4 oz. Bill's feat was all the more amazing as he'd had to climb the almost perpendicular hill track leading to the loch not once but twice after forgetting his landing net! Heaviest trout on the day went to irrepressible Caithness man Neil Clyne with a 1 lb, 11 & 1/2 oz. monster from Calder.
After a great deal of adding up and checking and scratching of heads and re-adding and rechecking, the totals after the first leg showed that the S.A.A. had 56 fish for 33 lb 7 oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 49 fish for 32 lb, 6 & 1/4 oz. This gave the S.A.A. a halftime lead of one pound - the slenderest of margins and everything to fish for in the second leg.
The experienced Jeemie Sandison has been in this situation before however and his evening team talk revolved round the instructions that everyone would need to be "on point" for the second day and there was to be no "messing around.!" The S.A.A team headed off for another early night with their captain's directions ringing in their ears.
Saturday dawned dry but a gusty wind had sprung up over night and there were concerns from some quarters that this might have stirred up some of the lochs making them unfishable. Anglers need not have worried however. Although totals were down on the previous day there were still trout to be caught.
As the pairings returned to Bill's garage in dribs and drabs in the late afternoon everyone was keen to know how other pairs had faired. As mental calculations were hastily carried out the S.A.A. team began to relax. With the D.F.F.A.'s and the S.A.A.'s top mathematicians, Bill Robertson and Bobby Irvine on the job, the wait for the official result was not long.
Best basket for the S.A.A. by a big margin was Darren Laurenson who is on fire at the moment. Darren had an incredible 19 trout from Caorach for 11 lb, 6 & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Bibio" variant. Hot on his heels for the D.F.F.A. was again Tony Chalmers who had 15, also from Caorach, for 8 lb, 13 oz. Tony's top fly was that old favourite, a "Loch Ordy." Biggest fish of the day went to Bill Robertson who had a specimen of 1 lb, 12 oz. from Toftingal on a "Norski Peach Hedgehog.".
After all the adding up was completed it was the S.A.A. who were victorious with 102 trout for their two days for 62 lb, 6 & 3/4 oz. while the D.F.F.A. finished up with 78 for 51 lb, 2 & 1/2 oz.
There were congratulatory hand shakes all round before everyone shot off to get cleaned up and presentable for the evening's reception.
Looking smart in navy blue polo shirts the S.A.A. team arrived for the reception at the Pentland Hotel in Thurso where an excellent meal was followed by the presentation of trophies and speeches.
First trophy to be presented was the much coveted and beautiful "Brian Hunter Memorial Trophy." Up stepped a clearly delighted Bill Robertson to a rapturous round of applause to receive the trophy. Bill is undoubtedly a popular and much deserving winner.
Next up from the other end of the age spectrum to another thunderous round of applause was Darren Laurenson to receive the "Viking Shield" for the heaviest basket over the two days. Darren's achievement was all the more notable as this is the first time he has fished the Caithness lochs. Darren's success capped an impressive week which also saw him winning the S.A.A. boat league. A young angler who has "come of age" and a "chip off the old block" as his dad Peter is a veteran of this competition.
Finally to yet more applause, the biggest prize of them all, the Inter Club trophy was presented to Jeemie Sandison. This is the tenth year in a row that the S.A.A. bank team has lifted this trophy in what was one of the most exciting ties in the competition's history.
An S.A.A. spokesman took the opportunity to thank their Dounreay hosts for their excellent hospitality and a superbly organised event. In particular he singled out Ken Macleod for officiating at the weigh in, acting as official photographer and M.C. at the reception and also Bill Robertson for his officiating duties, use of his garage and providing refreshments after a hard fought contest. He closed by pointing out what a unique and enjoyable event this is and looked forward to seeing the D.F.F.A. in Shetland next year.
The next S.A.A. competition is round eight of the bank league with 1030 a check in at Mavis Grind on Saturday 23rd July at Mavis Grind. This is bound to be a popular event with anglers chasing places in next year's team.
Last weekend the Shetland Anglers Association (S.A.A.) fly fishing bank team consisting of Jeemie Sandison (capt.), Billy Reid, Bobby Irvine, Tony Li, Darren Laurenson and Mark Sandison travelled down to Caithness for their annual match with the Dounreay Fly Fishing Association (D.F.F.A.).
Just before their departure the S.A.A. team had been rocked by the news that their main man Leslie Barclay had had to pull out due to injury. The charismatic and indomitable Barclay would be a big miss. However the rest of the boys need not have feared as veteran Jeemie Sandison was ready to step into the breach and assume the captain's armband.
Under Jeemie's direction the S.A.A. team had a days angling and bonding session in Orkney before travelling across the Pentland Firth to meet their old friends and adversaries from the D.F.F.A.
After greetings and news had been exchanged and friendships rekindled it was down to the serious business of getting the draw done for the competition which would take place over the next two days. This would see an S.A.A. team member fishing with a D.F.F.A. team member on the Friday on a particular selection of Lochs and then with a different partner on different waters on the Saturday. As ever the draw threw up some very tasty looking partnerships.
It was then an early night for all as everybody was going to have to be at the very top of their game for the next two days intensive fly fishing.
The prospects for Friday were not good with heavy rain forecast for the afternoon. It was now that Jeemie earned his money as he found the right words to motivate the team, for as he was quick to point out, "the rain would definitely dampen spirits!"
Despite the poor forecast Friday morning saw both teams tackled up and champing at the bit to get going for the 9 a.m. start. The partnerships were soon shooting off to the various corners of Caithness. There was a period of torrential rain in the afternoon which perhaps did put the fish down for a spell just before the 1630 "lines up" time. As anglers reconvened at former Yell man Bill Robertson's garage however it was clear that several good bags of trout had been caught and also that the two teams were very close.
Best for the S.A.A. was the ever incredible Bobby Irvine with 15 fish from the hill lochs of Seilge and Caorach for 8 lb, 15 oz. and debutante, young Darren Laurenson who also had fifteen for 8 lb, 14 oz. from Toftingall. Bobby had success with a "Norstane Lad" while Darren had scored with a "Peach Hedgehog."
Top for the D.F.F.A. was the ever consistent Tony Chalmers who had 13 from Olginey for 9 lb, 1 & 1/2 oz. and Bill Robertson who had eleven from Caorach for 8 lb, 2 & 1/4 oz. Bill's feat was all the more amazing as he'd had to climb the almost perpendicular hill track leading to the loch not once but twice after forgetting his landing net! Heaviest trout on the day went to irrepressible Caithness man Neil Clyne with a 1 lb, 11 & 1/2 oz. monster from Calder.
After a great deal of adding up and checking and scratching of heads and re-adding and rechecking, the totals after the first leg showed that the S.A.A. had 56 fish for 33 lb 7 oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 49 fish for 32 lb, 6 & 1/4 oz. This gave the S.A.A. a halftime lead of one pound - the slenderest of margins and everything to fish for in the second leg.
The experienced Jeemie Sandison has been in this situation before however and his evening team talk revolved round the instructions that everyone would need to be "on point" for the second day and there was to be no "messing around.!" The S.A.A team headed off for another early night with their captain's directions ringing in their ears.
Saturday dawned dry but a gusty wind had sprung up over night and there were concerns from some quarters that this might have stirred up some of the lochs making them unfishable. Anglers need not have worried however. Although totals were down on the previous day there were still trout to be caught.
As the pairings returned to Bill's garage in dribs and drabs in the late afternoon everyone was keen to know how other pairs had faired. As mental calculations were hastily carried out the S.A.A. team began to relax. With the D.F.F.A.'s and the S.A.A.'s top mathematicians, Bill Robertson and Bobby Irvine on the job, the wait for the official result was not long.
Best basket for the S.A.A. by a big margin was Darren Laurenson who is on fire at the moment. Darren had an incredible 19 trout from Caorach for 11 lb, 6 & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on a "Bibio" variant. Hot on his heels for the D.F.F.A. was again Tony Chalmers who had 15, also from Caorach, for 8 lb, 13 oz. Tony's top fly was that old favourite, a "Loch Ordy." Biggest fish of the day went to Bill Robertson who had a specimen of 1 lb, 12 oz. from Toftingal on a "Norski Peach Hedgehog.".
After all the adding up was completed it was the S.A.A. who were victorious with 102 trout for their two days for 62 lb, 6 & 3/4 oz. while the D.F.F.A. finished up with 78 for 51 lb, 2 & 1/2 oz.
There were congratulatory hand shakes all round before everyone shot off to get cleaned up and presentable for the evening's reception.
Looking smart in navy blue polo shirts the S.A.A. team arrived for the reception at the Pentland Hotel in Thurso where an excellent meal was followed by the presentation of trophies and speeches.
First trophy to be presented was the much coveted and beautiful "Brian Hunter Memorial Trophy." Up stepped a clearly delighted Bill Robertson to a rapturous round of applause to receive the trophy. Bill is undoubtedly a popular and much deserving winner.
Next up from the other end of the age spectrum to another thunderous round of applause was Darren Laurenson to receive the "Viking Shield" for the heaviest basket over the two days. Darren's achievement was all the more notable as this is the first time he has fished the Caithness lochs. Darren's success capped an impressive week which also saw him winning the S.A.A. boat league. A young angler who has "come of age" and a "chip off the old block" as his dad Peter is a veteran of this competition.
Finally to yet more applause, the biggest prize of them all, the Inter Club trophy was presented to Jeemie Sandison. This is the tenth year in a row that the S.A.A. bank team has lifted this trophy in what was one of the most exciting ties in the competition's history.
An S.A.A. spokesman took the opportunity to thank their Dounreay hosts for their excellent hospitality and a superbly organised event. In particular he singled out Ken Macleod for officiating at the weigh in, acting as official photographer and M.C. at the reception and also Bill Robertson for his officiating duties, use of his garage and providing refreshments after a hard fought contest. He closed by pointing out what a unique and enjoyable event this is and looked forward to seeing the D.F.F.A. in Shetland next year.
The next S.A.A. competition is round eight of the bank league with 1030 a check in at Mavis Grind on Saturday 23rd July at Mavis Grind. This is bound to be a popular event with anglers chasing places in next year's team.
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S.A.A. v Whalsay 9-7-16
Flyfishers congregated at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning for the annual inter club competition between the Shetland Anglers Association and the Whalsay Angling Club. In recent years this event has been dominated by the Bonnie Isle with their name appearing on the trophy about twice as many times as the S.A.A.
As ever the Whalsay club were extremely well organised and all their "big hitters" were in attendance along with "top gun" Magnie Reid who had been called out of retirement especially for the occasion.
The S.A.A. however were bolstered by their own "big gun" - the charismatic Stephen Breivik - complete with a bag full of sandwiches for extra energy on what was going to be a "long and hard day."
The bad news for the S.A.A. though was that another of their "big guns" Leslie Barclay was out due to injury. A few of the S.A.A. team's heads began to go down as this devastating news filtered through the ranks. However Breivik was on hand to work his special magic and instil some confidence back into the troops. After all the S.A.A. had the enigmatic Karl Tulloch in their line up who was brandishing a neolithic axe head picked up on his travels in the far North. What more inspiration did the S.A.A. need?
The final tally saw ten anglers fishing for the S.A.A. while eight had turned up for Whalsay. The result at the end of the day would be worked out on an aggregate basis so every trout caught would be worth its weight in gold.
Everyone was champing at the bit to get going and a double blast on competition secretary Billy Reid's horn was the signal for anglers to shoot off to the five corners of Shetland.
Overcast warm conditions and light cyclonic winds would leave little room for complaint. As ever making the right choice of venue would be crucial to success.
As Stephen Breivik had predicted it would be a long hard day for some - and none more so than himself who managed to fall in during the first half hour of the competition despite being warned on several occasions by angling partner Billy Reid to take care! Such was Breiviks enthusiasm and dedication to team and cause however that he soldiered on and managed to add four trout to the S.A.A. total.
As the two teams reconvened for the 1745 check in it was immediately apparent that it was going to be a very close run thing.
Top Rods for the S.A.A. were Darren Laurenson and Billy Reid. Darren had a fantastic ten trout for 8 lb, 10 & 1/2 oz. A superb effort for the team. Darren's basket included the heaviest fish of the day at 2 lb, Billy also had ten for 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz. Darren had fished Tingwall and Benston while Billy had success in Roer Water and Eela Water.
Best Whalsay anglers were Bobby Irvine and Greg Anderson. Bobby Had ten for 6 lb, 10 & 1/2 oz. from Spiggie while Greg also had ten for 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz from Mousavord.
Various flies were mentioned in despatches at the Tingwall shed but especially patterns in shades of orange and Hedgehogs.
There was a tense wait as officials from the two clubs added up the weights and worked out the averages - scrutinised carefully by S.A.A. stalwart Johnnie Laurenson. The S.A.A. had 34 fish for 23lb, 13oz while Whalsay had 31 fish for 17 lb, 14 & 1/4 oz.
This gave the S.A.A. an average of 2 lb, 5 & 1/2 oz per man while Whalsay had 2 lb, 3 & 3/4 oz. per man. A very close run thing but it gave the S.A.A. their first victory in this competition in a few years.
There were warm congratulations all round before a delighted Darren Laurenson stepped up to accept the inter club trophy on behalf of the S.A.A.
It has to be noted that the S.A.A.'s James Henry managed to lose track of time in Northmavine, was late for the weigh in and therefore disqualified, despite having two fish to weigh in. James was quick to point out however that he was so confident in the ability of his fellow team members that he knew they wouldn't need his two trout!
The previous Thursday evening round seven of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League was fished on the West side lochs. Bobby Irvine continued his seemingly relentless march towards the title with an excellent eight fish for his evening's angling and first place. With places in next year's bank team up for grabs other anglers gaining valuable points were Billy Reid, Greg Anderson, Darren Laurenson, Peter Laurenson and Dave Wright.
This weekend sees the S.A.A. bank team fish their annual inter county against the Dounreay Flyfishing Association in Caithness so we wish our boys all the best.
Bank competitions resume on Saturday 23rd July with the penultimate league competition of the year. Check in is at 1030 at Mavis Grind.
Flyfishers congregated at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning for the annual inter club competition between the Shetland Anglers Association and the Whalsay Angling Club. In recent years this event has been dominated by the Bonnie Isle with their name appearing on the trophy about twice as many times as the S.A.A.
As ever the Whalsay club were extremely well organised and all their "big hitters" were in attendance along with "top gun" Magnie Reid who had been called out of retirement especially for the occasion.
The S.A.A. however were bolstered by their own "big gun" - the charismatic Stephen Breivik - complete with a bag full of sandwiches for extra energy on what was going to be a "long and hard day."
The bad news for the S.A.A. though was that another of their "big guns" Leslie Barclay was out due to injury. A few of the S.A.A. team's heads began to go down as this devastating news filtered through the ranks. However Breivik was on hand to work his special magic and instil some confidence back into the troops. After all the S.A.A. had the enigmatic Karl Tulloch in their line up who was brandishing a neolithic axe head picked up on his travels in the far North. What more inspiration did the S.A.A. need?
The final tally saw ten anglers fishing for the S.A.A. while eight had turned up for Whalsay. The result at the end of the day would be worked out on an aggregate basis so every trout caught would be worth its weight in gold.
Everyone was champing at the bit to get going and a double blast on competition secretary Billy Reid's horn was the signal for anglers to shoot off to the five corners of Shetland.
Overcast warm conditions and light cyclonic winds would leave little room for complaint. As ever making the right choice of venue would be crucial to success.
As Stephen Breivik had predicted it would be a long hard day for some - and none more so than himself who managed to fall in during the first half hour of the competition despite being warned on several occasions by angling partner Billy Reid to take care! Such was Breiviks enthusiasm and dedication to team and cause however that he soldiered on and managed to add four trout to the S.A.A. total.
As the two teams reconvened for the 1745 check in it was immediately apparent that it was going to be a very close run thing.
Top Rods for the S.A.A. were Darren Laurenson and Billy Reid. Darren had a fantastic ten trout for 8 lb, 10 & 1/2 oz. A superb effort for the team. Darren's basket included the heaviest fish of the day at 2 lb, Billy also had ten for 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz. Darren had fished Tingwall and Benston while Billy had success in Roer Water and Eela Water.
Best Whalsay anglers were Bobby Irvine and Greg Anderson. Bobby Had ten for 6 lb, 10 & 1/2 oz. from Spiggie while Greg also had ten for 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz from Mousavord.
Various flies were mentioned in despatches at the Tingwall shed but especially patterns in shades of orange and Hedgehogs.
There was a tense wait as officials from the two clubs added up the weights and worked out the averages - scrutinised carefully by S.A.A. stalwart Johnnie Laurenson. The S.A.A. had 34 fish for 23lb, 13oz while Whalsay had 31 fish for 17 lb, 14 & 1/4 oz.
This gave the S.A.A. an average of 2 lb, 5 & 1/2 oz per man while Whalsay had 2 lb, 3 & 3/4 oz. per man. A very close run thing but it gave the S.A.A. their first victory in this competition in a few years.
There were warm congratulations all round before a delighted Darren Laurenson stepped up to accept the inter club trophy on behalf of the S.A.A.
It has to be noted that the S.A.A.'s James Henry managed to lose track of time in Northmavine, was late for the weigh in and therefore disqualified, despite having two fish to weigh in. James was quick to point out however that he was so confident in the ability of his fellow team members that he knew they wouldn't need his two trout!
The previous Thursday evening round seven of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League was fished on the West side lochs. Bobby Irvine continued his seemingly relentless march towards the title with an excellent eight fish for his evening's angling and first place. With places in next year's bank team up for grabs other anglers gaining valuable points were Billy Reid, Greg Anderson, Darren Laurenson, Peter Laurenson and Dave Wright.
This weekend sees the S.A.A. bank team fish their annual inter county against the Dounreay Flyfishing Association in Caithness so we wish our boys all the best.
Bank competitions resume on Saturday 23rd July with the penultimate league competition of the year. Check in is at 1030 at Mavis Grind.
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Ronas Hill 25-6-16
Eleven fly fishers checked in at the Collafirth pier last Saturday morning at 9 a.m. for the annual hardcore trooty marathon that is the Ronas Hill competition.
It was good to see Ronas Hill veteran Karl Tulloch donning waders and attending his first Ronas Hill competition in a good few years.
Conspicuous by his absence however due to a full diary of social engagements was Up Helly Aa legend, crofter and all round good guy Dale Williamson.
It was seemingly perfect angling conditions conditions with an overcast sky, rising temperature and a light Norh Easterly wind. Flyfishers had ten and a half hours to look forward to in the wilderness that is better known as the "back of Ronas Hill."
Needless to say everyone was champing at the bit to get going with maps and compasses at the ready.
Competitors were fairly evenly split on accessing the area from either the Roer Water track or the Uyea track .But whatever route anglers chose the day would involve a lot of hiking for many of them.
One angler who perhaps should have consulted his map and compass a bit more carefully was Shetland football legend Michael Williamson who had a bit of a magical mystery tour while trying to locate the "Loch of the Grey Ewe." However such is this top athlete's level of fitness that he was still fishing before many others had managed to cast a fly.
Most anglers had sport almost right away in the calm and warm conditions. However a chill breeze picking up in the afternoon meant that the catch rate tailed off and it was those anglers who had made the most of the early chances who faired best.
It was nine tired but happy anglers who reconvened at the Collafirth pier at 1930 for the weigh in.
Taking first place and the Ronas Hill trophy for the third time was Billy Reid with a great basket of 19 trout for 10lb, 9 oz . Billy had spent the whole day on Roer Water where his top fly was his own "Orange Badger Hedgehog." Billy is a Roer water specialist and there is no stopping him when he finds the trout eager to rise to his "Hedgehogs." See "July Cast of the Month" on the S.A.A. website.
Runner up was Bobby Irvine with another very good basket of 13 fish for 7 lb, 14 oz. Bobby had concentrated his efforts on the North lochs of the area where he had had success with a "Peach Muddler." It has to be pointed out that as well as winning this trophy on no less than seven times in recent years this is the eighth time that Bobby has been runner up. - Some achievement!
In third place was Darren Laurenson with 16 trout for 7 lb, 9 & 1/2 oz. Darren had also spent his day in Roer Water where his killing fly was a "Destroyer."
However on a day behind Ronas Hill everyone is a winner and other successful anglers were Ian Reid, Mark Sandison, Luke Johnson, Liam Wheelan, Leslie Barclay, Karl Tulloch and Gregg Anderson.
Heaviest fish on the day was a Muckle Lunga Water cracker of 2 lb, 8 & 1/2 oz. which fell to Ronas Hill debutante Luke Johnson on a "Clan Chief Thingy." - Well done Luke.
The only other incident of note was Leslie Barclay's encounter with a strange looking bright green Ronas Hill frog. Leslie did try kissing the frog in the hope of a princess - alas to no avail!
The next S.A.A. bank competition is the "D & D Doubles" which takes place on Saturday 2nd July with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall Shed. Competitors are reminded to get there in plenty of time for the draw to take place.
Then the following Thursday (7th July) the seventh league competition takes place with an 1815 check in at the Bixter Graveyard.
Eleven fly fishers checked in at the Collafirth pier last Saturday morning at 9 a.m. for the annual hardcore trooty marathon that is the Ronas Hill competition.
It was good to see Ronas Hill veteran Karl Tulloch donning waders and attending his first Ronas Hill competition in a good few years.
Conspicuous by his absence however due to a full diary of social engagements was Up Helly Aa legend, crofter and all round good guy Dale Williamson.
It was seemingly perfect angling conditions conditions with an overcast sky, rising temperature and a light Norh Easterly wind. Flyfishers had ten and a half hours to look forward to in the wilderness that is better known as the "back of Ronas Hill."
Needless to say everyone was champing at the bit to get going with maps and compasses at the ready.
Competitors were fairly evenly split on accessing the area from either the Roer Water track or the Uyea track .But whatever route anglers chose the day would involve a lot of hiking for many of them.
One angler who perhaps should have consulted his map and compass a bit more carefully was Shetland football legend Michael Williamson who had a bit of a magical mystery tour while trying to locate the "Loch of the Grey Ewe." However such is this top athlete's level of fitness that he was still fishing before many others had managed to cast a fly.
Most anglers had sport almost right away in the calm and warm conditions. However a chill breeze picking up in the afternoon meant that the catch rate tailed off and it was those anglers who had made the most of the early chances who faired best.
It was nine tired but happy anglers who reconvened at the Collafirth pier at 1930 for the weigh in.
Taking first place and the Ronas Hill trophy for the third time was Billy Reid with a great basket of 19 trout for 10lb, 9 oz . Billy had spent the whole day on Roer Water where his top fly was his own "Orange Badger Hedgehog." Billy is a Roer water specialist and there is no stopping him when he finds the trout eager to rise to his "Hedgehogs." See "July Cast of the Month" on the S.A.A. website.
Runner up was Bobby Irvine with another very good basket of 13 fish for 7 lb, 14 oz. Bobby had concentrated his efforts on the North lochs of the area where he had had success with a "Peach Muddler." It has to be pointed out that as well as winning this trophy on no less than seven times in recent years this is the eighth time that Bobby has been runner up. - Some achievement!
In third place was Darren Laurenson with 16 trout for 7 lb, 9 & 1/2 oz. Darren had also spent his day in Roer Water where his killing fly was a "Destroyer."
However on a day behind Ronas Hill everyone is a winner and other successful anglers were Ian Reid, Mark Sandison, Luke Johnson, Liam Wheelan, Leslie Barclay, Karl Tulloch and Gregg Anderson.
Heaviest fish on the day was a Muckle Lunga Water cracker of 2 lb, 8 & 1/2 oz. which fell to Ronas Hill debutante Luke Johnson on a "Clan Chief Thingy." - Well done Luke.
The only other incident of note was Leslie Barclay's encounter with a strange looking bright green Ronas Hill frog. Leslie did try kissing the frog in the hope of a princess - alas to no avail!
The next S.A.A. bank competition is the "D & D Doubles" which takes place on Saturday 2nd July with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall Shed. Competitors are reminded to get there in plenty of time for the draw to take place.
Then the following Thursday (7th July) the seventh league competition takes place with an 1815 check in at the Bixter Graveyard.
"Peach Muddler." "Orange Badger Hedgehog." "Darren's Destroyer."
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Tulloch Midsummer Shield 11-6-16
Fly fishers congregated at the Tingwall Boat Shed last Saturday morning to fish for the Tulloch Midsummer Shield. The poor trooty weather continued with blazing sun and Easterly wind. The poor prospects however didn't deter the twenty or so anglers who checked in for the 1030 kick off.
It was great to see Karl Tulloch attending his first Fly Fishing competition in many a long year. It was also good to see injury doubt John Tait ready to go despite concerns over a shoulder injury sustained while deep sea fishing.
Leslie Barclay was keeping a low profile but did put his head above the parapet long enough to question the accuracy of some of the finer points of recent competition reporting. The S.A.A. press secretary was quick to remind Leslie that only the facts as they actually happened are reported to the media.
Competitors had a choice of 18 of the top lochs in Shetland ranging from the mighty Eela Water in the North, Mousavord and Lunga Water in the West right down through Tingwall and Asta to Spiggie in the South. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success as the day can quickly run away if you find yourself motoring between lochs in search of that elusive trout.
The starting gun would see anglers fairly well spread out over the mainland with perhaps an early concentration on the deep South. As predicted however the bright sun ensured that the angling was particularly difficult with the trout very reluctant to come to the fly on most venues.
At the weigh in it transpired that a couple of lochs had bucked the trend and produced some fish but for most anglers it had been a long and hard day.
Taking first place was the on form Bobby Irvine with a fantastic basket, especially considering the conditions, of eleven trout for 5 lb, 15 & 1/4 oz. from Vaara taken mainly on a "Peach Hedgehog." Bobby can do no wrong at the moment. As well as picking up the Tulloch Shield this result cements his place at the top of the league.
Runner up was Mark Sandison with 10 fish from Spiggie for 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz. Mark's best fly was a "Clan Chief" variant.
Third spot went to Harry Sandison with another very good Vaara basket of eight trout for 4 lb, 4 oz. Harry's top fly was that old Orkney bright day favourite, an "Orange Ke He."
Again these flies can be viewed in the competitions section of the S.A.A. website.
Other anglers gaining points were Billy Reid, Frank Watt, Darren Laurenson, Ian Reid, Luke Johnson, Peter Laurenson, Karl Tulloch, Tony Li, Dave Wright, Derek Titheradge, Leslie Barclay and Johnnie Laurenson.
Fly fishers congregated at the Tingwall Boat Shed last Saturday morning to fish for the Tulloch Midsummer Shield. The poor trooty weather continued with blazing sun and Easterly wind. The poor prospects however didn't deter the twenty or so anglers who checked in for the 1030 kick off.
It was great to see Karl Tulloch attending his first Fly Fishing competition in many a long year. It was also good to see injury doubt John Tait ready to go despite concerns over a shoulder injury sustained while deep sea fishing.
Leslie Barclay was keeping a low profile but did put his head above the parapet long enough to question the accuracy of some of the finer points of recent competition reporting. The S.A.A. press secretary was quick to remind Leslie that only the facts as they actually happened are reported to the media.
Competitors had a choice of 18 of the top lochs in Shetland ranging from the mighty Eela Water in the North, Mousavord and Lunga Water in the West right down through Tingwall and Asta to Spiggie in the South. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success as the day can quickly run away if you find yourself motoring between lochs in search of that elusive trout.
The starting gun would see anglers fairly well spread out over the mainland with perhaps an early concentration on the deep South. As predicted however the bright sun ensured that the angling was particularly difficult with the trout very reluctant to come to the fly on most venues.
At the weigh in it transpired that a couple of lochs had bucked the trend and produced some fish but for most anglers it had been a long and hard day.
Taking first place was the on form Bobby Irvine with a fantastic basket, especially considering the conditions, of eleven trout for 5 lb, 15 & 1/4 oz. from Vaara taken mainly on a "Peach Hedgehog." Bobby can do no wrong at the moment. As well as picking up the Tulloch Shield this result cements his place at the top of the league.
Runner up was Mark Sandison with 10 fish from Spiggie for 5 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz. Mark's best fly was a "Clan Chief" variant.
Third spot went to Harry Sandison with another very good Vaara basket of eight trout for 4 lb, 4 oz. Harry's top fly was that old Orkney bright day favourite, an "Orange Ke He."
Again these flies can be viewed in the competitions section of the S.A.A. website.
Other anglers gaining points were Billy Reid, Frank Watt, Darren Laurenson, Ian Reid, Luke Johnson, Peter Laurenson, Karl Tulloch, Tony Li, Dave Wright, Derek Titheradge, Leslie Barclay and Johnnie Laurenson.
It was a strangely subdued weigh in with most anglers obviously taking heed of recent warnings regarding challenging the authority of S.A.A. officials. There were a couple of wisecracks from Ian Reid and Karl Tulloch but nothing that was worthy of further action!
The bank league takes a break now until Thursday 7th July. However trooty competition junkies need not despair. The Annual Ronas Hill competition takes place on Saturday 25th June with a 0900 check in at the Collafirth Pier. This is followed a week later on Saturday 2nd July when the D & D Doubles trophy will be fished with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall Shed. This is a seeded competition where pairs will be drawn based on last year's league placings.
The bank league takes a break now until Thursday 7th July. However trooty competition junkies need not despair. The Annual Ronas Hill competition takes place on Saturday 25th June with a 0900 check in at the Collafirth Pier. This is followed a week later on Saturday 2nd July when the D & D Doubles trophy will be fished with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall Shed. This is a seeded competition where pairs will be drawn based on last year's league placings.
"Straggle Clan Chief." "Orange Ke-He." "Peach Hedgehog."
Clousta Road 2-6-16
Despite the relentless North wind 19 anglers checked in at the Bixter hall last Thursday evening for round five of the S.A.A. fly bank league.
It was good to see Frank Watt in attendance fresh back from international duty in Ireland.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the Clousta road area. On paper at least this should be one of the most prolific trout fishing areas in Shetland. However the continued cold weather with temperatures barely reaching double figures in the blustery North East wind wasn’t exactly filling those present with much enthusiasm.
One wit suggested that rather than go fishing lots could be drawn for the result and everyone could go home early. Another wag proposed that a boxing match might be more fun. Harry Sandison thought that this would be a great idea until Ian Reid pointed out that he would be in the same weight division as Burra men Leslie Barclay, Billy Reid and Peter Laurenson!
There was a moment of controversy two minutes before kick off when an excited Leslie Barclay in an attempt to steal a march on his competitors manoeuvred his vehicle to the front of the queue. This meant him getting ahead of competition secretary Billy Reid. While not strictly against the rules this is a practice very much frowned upon!
Unfortunately Leslie’s sneaky plan backfired. Although arriving first at Vaara Barclay was in such a rush to get fishing that he was halfway down the park to the loch before discovering that his rod was still securely attached to the racks on his car. This was almost too much for Mark Sandison and Billy Reid who struggled to get down the hill themselves as they were laughing so much!.
Leslie now joins the exclusive “Go Fishing Without Your Rod” club which was founded several years ago by Derek Titheradge.
Barclay's evening was to go from bad to worse. He had "in the teens of fish" at him over the course of the competition before he discovered he was fishing with a hook with no point. Better luck next time Leslie!
Despite the fact that the weather was to deteriorate further with a near gale force North Easterly wind flanning down the lochs this didn't deter the trout and the weigh in was much better than expected. There were some very good baskets in evidenceat the 1030 weigh in and most competitors had fish.
Taking first place and maximum points was Ian Reid with four trout from Northouse for 4 lb, 15 &1/2 oz. Ian's basket included an absolute beauty of 2lb, 8 & 1/2 oz. which fell to an "Olive Hedgehog."
In second spot was the ever incredible Bobby Irvine who took seven fish from Vaara for 4 lb, 7 & 1/4 oz. Bobby's killing fly was a "Doobry Muddler" and his bag included a Vaara specimen of 1 lb, 3 & 3/4 oz.
Third place went to Peter Laurenson who had another excellent basket of six fish from Northouse for 3 lb 11 oz. Peter's successful fly was that old peaty water favourite, a "Claret Bumble Muddler."
Other successful anglers were Tony Li, Gregg Anderson, Frank Watt, Billy Reid, Craig Smith, Darren Laurenson, John Tait, Mark Sandison, Michael Williamson, Harry Sandison, Graeme Callander, Luke Johnson, Leslie Barclay and Dave Wright.
Thanks again to the top three anglers for donating their killing flies and these can be viewed on the S.A.A. website.
Unbelievably we are now past the half way point in this season’s league where things are really hotting up both for the championship itself and a top six finish.
Despite the relentless North wind 19 anglers checked in at the Bixter hall last Thursday evening for round five of the S.A.A. fly bank league.
It was good to see Frank Watt in attendance fresh back from international duty in Ireland.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the Clousta road area. On paper at least this should be one of the most prolific trout fishing areas in Shetland. However the continued cold weather with temperatures barely reaching double figures in the blustery North East wind wasn’t exactly filling those present with much enthusiasm.
One wit suggested that rather than go fishing lots could be drawn for the result and everyone could go home early. Another wag proposed that a boxing match might be more fun. Harry Sandison thought that this would be a great idea until Ian Reid pointed out that he would be in the same weight division as Burra men Leslie Barclay, Billy Reid and Peter Laurenson!
There was a moment of controversy two minutes before kick off when an excited Leslie Barclay in an attempt to steal a march on his competitors manoeuvred his vehicle to the front of the queue. This meant him getting ahead of competition secretary Billy Reid. While not strictly against the rules this is a practice very much frowned upon!
Unfortunately Leslie’s sneaky plan backfired. Although arriving first at Vaara Barclay was in such a rush to get fishing that he was halfway down the park to the loch before discovering that his rod was still securely attached to the racks on his car. This was almost too much for Mark Sandison and Billy Reid who struggled to get down the hill themselves as they were laughing so much!.
Leslie now joins the exclusive “Go Fishing Without Your Rod” club which was founded several years ago by Derek Titheradge.
Barclay's evening was to go from bad to worse. He had "in the teens of fish" at him over the course of the competition before he discovered he was fishing with a hook with no point. Better luck next time Leslie!
Despite the fact that the weather was to deteriorate further with a near gale force North Easterly wind flanning down the lochs this didn't deter the trout and the weigh in was much better than expected. There were some very good baskets in evidenceat the 1030 weigh in and most competitors had fish.
Taking first place and maximum points was Ian Reid with four trout from Northouse for 4 lb, 15 &1/2 oz. Ian's basket included an absolute beauty of 2lb, 8 & 1/2 oz. which fell to an "Olive Hedgehog."
In second spot was the ever incredible Bobby Irvine who took seven fish from Vaara for 4 lb, 7 & 1/4 oz. Bobby's killing fly was a "Doobry Muddler" and his bag included a Vaara specimen of 1 lb, 3 & 3/4 oz.
Third place went to Peter Laurenson who had another excellent basket of six fish from Northouse for 3 lb 11 oz. Peter's successful fly was that old peaty water favourite, a "Claret Bumble Muddler."
Other successful anglers were Tony Li, Gregg Anderson, Frank Watt, Billy Reid, Craig Smith, Darren Laurenson, John Tait, Mark Sandison, Michael Williamson, Harry Sandison, Graeme Callander, Luke Johnson, Leslie Barclay and Dave Wright.
Thanks again to the top three anglers for donating their killing flies and these can be viewed on the S.A.A. website.
Unbelievably we are now past the half way point in this season’s league where things are really hotting up both for the championship itself and a top six finish.
The next Bank League competition doubles up with the coveted Tulloch Midsummer Shield which takes place on Saturday 11th June with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall Boat Shed. Let’s hope that the weather lives up to the billing!
"Olive Hedgehog." "Claret Bumble Muddler." "Doobry Muddler."
North Mainland 26-5-16
After the excitement of the previous week's Trout Festival it was now time to get on with the serious business of the S.A.A. bank league.
A bright sunny evening with a fresh North wind didn't deter the 21 intrepid and enthusiastic fly fishers who congregated at Mavis Grind last Thursday evening with the inviting prospect of four hours hard labour in the North Mainland.
It was great to see an exuberant Leslie Barclay, resplendent in his Hibernian shirt and freshly back from his adventures at Hampden Park, complete with a new patent large mesh landing net!
Conspicuous by his absence was "the larger than life" Stephen Breivik who had briefly threatened to be a serious player in this year's bank League. However it appears that a variety of unforeseen commitments have put paid to Breivik's bank league aspirations for another year.
There was a moment of drama at the weigh in when Robert Scougall inadvertently managed to get himself tangled up in Graeme Callander's cast. Luckily for Robert, Callander's flies managed to avoid piercing his waders. Anglers are reminded to take careful note of the S.A.A. Risk Assessment document regarding the tying up of casts at the check in!
Competitors had a wide choice of all the major lochs in the North Mainland covering a large area from North Roe out to Eshaness and down to Muckle Roe. Despite the large selection of waters on offer, this is a notoriously tricky competition and making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success. This is especially the case in an evening competition when there is little time to put a “plan B” into effect.
The 1815 starting blast on Billy Reid's horn saw competitors flying off to the five corners of North Mavine. However it soon became clear, as anglers settled down in their favourite spots, that the blazing sun was going to make things very difficult. This soon became evident with the tell tale sign of competitors motoring between lochs in search of that elusive fish. Hopefully sport would improve as the sun settled in the west. - However the disappearing sun led to the temperature plummeting which killed any prospects entirely!
As competitors reconvened for the 2230 weigh it was indeed the case that the trout had been particularly uncooperative as anglers had very little to show for their evening's exertions.
Sneaking into first place was a lucky Mark Sandison with three fish for 1 lb, 14 oz taken on a "Clan Chief" variant in Eela Water.
In second place, despite having one more fish than Sandison, was the ever consistent Ian Reid. Ian had taken his four fish for 1 lb, 11 & 1/4 oz. from the "Loch of the Glen" on that top Orkney Fly, a "Coch Zulu."
Third place went to Tony Li who had split his time between Eela Water and Punds Water for three trout weighing 1 lb, 10 oz. Tony's killing fly was a "Red Dragon Hog."
Other anglers weighing in on a very difficult evening were Craig Smith, Peter Laurenson, Michael Williamson, Alastair Jamieson, Robert Scougall, Graeme Callander, John Tait, Billy Reid and Greg Anderson.
As ever there was a certain amount of backchat aimed at S.A.A. officials Billy Reid and Mark Sandison as they carried out their duties in the efficient manner that is expected of their position. As a result Alastair Jamieson and Jeemie Sandison were issued with official warnings. - Two senior anglers who should definitely know better!
Missing from the weigh in was Leslie Barclay. A deal of concern was expressed for the accident prone Barclay with someone even going as far as mentioning "search party!" However it turned out that Leslie had aggravated a knee injury, sustained while celebrating Hibernian's third goal the previous week, as he scrambled down the bank to Punds Water and had had to retire for an early bath!
With four out of the nine competitions having been fished this now leaves the league table as follows:
After the excitement of the previous week's Trout Festival it was now time to get on with the serious business of the S.A.A. bank league.
A bright sunny evening with a fresh North wind didn't deter the 21 intrepid and enthusiastic fly fishers who congregated at Mavis Grind last Thursday evening with the inviting prospect of four hours hard labour in the North Mainland.
It was great to see an exuberant Leslie Barclay, resplendent in his Hibernian shirt and freshly back from his adventures at Hampden Park, complete with a new patent large mesh landing net!
Conspicuous by his absence was "the larger than life" Stephen Breivik who had briefly threatened to be a serious player in this year's bank League. However it appears that a variety of unforeseen commitments have put paid to Breivik's bank league aspirations for another year.
There was a moment of drama at the weigh in when Robert Scougall inadvertently managed to get himself tangled up in Graeme Callander's cast. Luckily for Robert, Callander's flies managed to avoid piercing his waders. Anglers are reminded to take careful note of the S.A.A. Risk Assessment document regarding the tying up of casts at the check in!
Competitors had a wide choice of all the major lochs in the North Mainland covering a large area from North Roe out to Eshaness and down to Muckle Roe. Despite the large selection of waters on offer, this is a notoriously tricky competition and making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success. This is especially the case in an evening competition when there is little time to put a “plan B” into effect.
The 1815 starting blast on Billy Reid's horn saw competitors flying off to the five corners of North Mavine. However it soon became clear, as anglers settled down in their favourite spots, that the blazing sun was going to make things very difficult. This soon became evident with the tell tale sign of competitors motoring between lochs in search of that elusive fish. Hopefully sport would improve as the sun settled in the west. - However the disappearing sun led to the temperature plummeting which killed any prospects entirely!
As competitors reconvened for the 2230 weigh it was indeed the case that the trout had been particularly uncooperative as anglers had very little to show for their evening's exertions.
Sneaking into first place was a lucky Mark Sandison with three fish for 1 lb, 14 oz taken on a "Clan Chief" variant in Eela Water.
In second place, despite having one more fish than Sandison, was the ever consistent Ian Reid. Ian had taken his four fish for 1 lb, 11 & 1/4 oz. from the "Loch of the Glen" on that top Orkney Fly, a "Coch Zulu."
Third place went to Tony Li who had split his time between Eela Water and Punds Water for three trout weighing 1 lb, 10 oz. Tony's killing fly was a "Red Dragon Hog."
Other anglers weighing in on a very difficult evening were Craig Smith, Peter Laurenson, Michael Williamson, Alastair Jamieson, Robert Scougall, Graeme Callander, John Tait, Billy Reid and Greg Anderson.
As ever there was a certain amount of backchat aimed at S.A.A. officials Billy Reid and Mark Sandison as they carried out their duties in the efficient manner that is expected of their position. As a result Alastair Jamieson and Jeemie Sandison were issued with official warnings. - Two senior anglers who should definitely know better!
Missing from the weigh in was Leslie Barclay. A deal of concern was expressed for the accident prone Barclay with someone even going as far as mentioning "search party!" However it turned out that Leslie had aggravated a knee injury, sustained while celebrating Hibernian's third goal the previous week, as he scrambled down the bank to Punds Water and had had to retire for an early bath!
With four out of the nine competitions having been fished this now leaves the league table as follows:
Special mention must go to John Tait for weighing in at his first S.A.A. competition. Well done John. - This is certain to be the first of many for a very keen fly fisher!
The next fly bank competition is the Tulloch Mid Summer Shield which takes place on Saturday 11th June with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall boat shed.
The next fly bank competition is the Tulloch Mid Summer Shield which takes place on Saturday 11th June with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall boat shed.
"Straggle Clan Chief." "Tony's Red Dragon Hog." "Coch Zulu."
Trout Festival 2016
Shetland Anglers Association hosted the annual Trout Festival (TF) with a series of competitions held over four days last week. During the build up to the festival, it had been hard fishing for local anglers due to the cold weather, so generally most anglers’ hopes were not high.
The Wednesday evening competition produced reasonable results for the 20 anglers taking part, with 45 trout weighed-in. The runaway winner was Sean McCaffrey who landed 10 trout weighing 7lb 8oz from the Burra Lochs. Bobby Irvine’s 1lb 12oz fish in “extra time” from Vidlin won the heaviest fish prize. A jubilant Mark Beswick was pleased to record his first ever weigh in at the TF with three trout weighing 2lb 10oz from Asta. Unusually, he was fishing in a Kayak – this has the potential for setting a new TF trend! This competition was TF stalwart Leslie Barclay’s only show as he was heading for Edinburgh the next day to support his beloved Hibs in the Scottish Cup final. The story goes that he has managed to obtain some spare netting at the match that will be useful in mending the holes in his landing net.
Thursday evening again saw 20 anglers braving a wet and windy night. The weather paid its part in the reducing the total weigh-in to 35 trout. This was to be Terry Laurenson’s night as his splendid basket of two trout weighing 1lb 7oz and 2lb 3oz won both the heaviest basket prize and also the heaviest fish prize. Two wins in one TF competition is a rare event and celebrations continued late into the night, with a film team recording how some entrants were very overcome by the occasion. The documentary film is being offered to the Shetland Museum Archives.
On Friday night, the weather remained cold, despite this, the 20 anglers caught 40 trout. There was a change of tactics with the main action switching to the Northmavine Lochs. Sean McCaffrey won the heaviest basket with 8 trout, mainly from lochs in the Punds Water area, this was 12oz ahead of Billy Reid who caught 10 trout from Roer Water. The heaviest fish prize went to Gilbert William from the Whalsay “team” who weighed in at 1lb 8oz, just a quarter ounce ahead of Terry Laurenson. Dale Williamson made his first competition entry of the season, checking in at Laxo. His grossly hirsute appearance made him unregognisable to the Whalsay “checker-inner”, but at least the hair growth kept him warm.
The final day saw warmer temperatures and this resulted in 64 trout being weighed and few “blanks”. After his previous day’s success Billy Reid returned to Roer Water for a winning basket of 19 fish weighing 9lb 11oz. Mark Sandison’s good basket from Spiggie was just a few ounces below the heaviest basket prize but it did contain a good trout weighing just short of 3lb which won him the heaviest fish prize – this was also the heaviest fish of the week. Later in the evening, after the prize giving, there was a rare Stewards enquiry about a Roer Water fish that allegedly turned up late for the weigh-in. So far the fish has not been found not guilty, the jury accepted his plea that he had a long way to travel.
The final prize to be decided was the aggregate for the week, and this was won for the second year in a row by Sean McCaffrey with a total of 32 trout weighing 22lb 4oz, a display of good angling skills in the poor conditions.
There was general consensus from the participating anglers that despite the unfavourable weather, the festival had been successful and enjoyable and the 25 year old event has confirmed its place in the Shetland angling year. Shetland Anglers Association would like to thank Neil MacDonald of Caithness Quality Flies ([email protected]) for sponsoring the prizes.
Westside 12-5-16
A sure sign that summer arrived was the first evening S.A.A. bank league competition of the year. A fairly chilly evening greeted the near record 21 flyfishers who gathered at the Bixter Graveyard car park last Thursday for the 1815 check in. Most of them however would have been fairly happy that it wasn’t the blazing sunshine and flat calm conditions of the previous few days.
Such is the popularity of this event that all round raconteur and Toonie turned Westside crofter, Dale Williamson stopped by on his way to the Up Helly Aa bunker to dispense some wit and fly fishing advice to anyone who would listen. It has to be said though that Dale was almost unrecognisable under his 2017 Up Helly Aa growth with some competitors convinced that a “Wastside Trow” had materialised in their midst!
As per usual everyone was being very circumspect with regard to their plans for the evening and intended fishing locations. Old campaigners Jeemie Sandison and Alastair Jamieson are adept at gleaning information from fellow competitors while giving away very little details of their own plans!
Anglers had a wide choice of lochs on the Westside ranging all the way from the mighty Sulma Water in the West Burrafirth road, to lochs along the AD71 and all the way down to the temperamental Stump. Usually making the correct choice of loch on an evening like this is of paramount importance. However on this occasion it transpired that the angling was very difficult everywhere with the trout very reluctant to come to the fly. It seemed that the cold snap had returned just a day too early!
As anglers reconvened at 2230 most competitors only had one or two fish to weigh in.
A tense weigh in ensued overseen by Billy Reid where everyone was aware that a couple of ounces either way would have a significant bearing on the points. As Mark Sandison tried to work out the places there was a certain degree of schoolboy cheek and insubordination from the excitable Dave Wright and Harry Sandison. Luckily Leslie Barclay was on hand to fire a warning shot across the bows of the two miscreants!
Taking first place was the ever amazing Bobby Irvine with four fish for 3 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz. Bobby's basket included the heaviest trout of the evening at 1 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz. Bobby's top fly was that old favourite the "Clan Chief."
In second place was Derek Titheradge who took three trout from the often overlooked Turdale Water for 2 lb, 5 & 1/4 oz. Derek's killing fly was a "Lime Tailed Olive."
Third spot went to Greg Anderson who had three from Mousavord for 1 lb, 8 oz. on an "Orange Snatcher."
Other anglers managing to weigh in on a very tricky evening were Billy Reid, Gilbert Williamson, Harry Sandison, Dave Wright, Ian Reid, Michael Williamson, Luke Johnson, Darren Laurenson, Mark Sandison, Leslie Barclay and Robert Scougal.
This result cements Bobby Irvine’s excellent start to the season and has opened up a clear gap in the league between himself and the chasing pack.
A sure sign that summer arrived was the first evening S.A.A. bank league competition of the year. A fairly chilly evening greeted the near record 21 flyfishers who gathered at the Bixter Graveyard car park last Thursday for the 1815 check in. Most of them however would have been fairly happy that it wasn’t the blazing sunshine and flat calm conditions of the previous few days.
Such is the popularity of this event that all round raconteur and Toonie turned Westside crofter, Dale Williamson stopped by on his way to the Up Helly Aa bunker to dispense some wit and fly fishing advice to anyone who would listen. It has to be said though that Dale was almost unrecognisable under his 2017 Up Helly Aa growth with some competitors convinced that a “Wastside Trow” had materialised in their midst!
As per usual everyone was being very circumspect with regard to their plans for the evening and intended fishing locations. Old campaigners Jeemie Sandison and Alastair Jamieson are adept at gleaning information from fellow competitors while giving away very little details of their own plans!
Anglers had a wide choice of lochs on the Westside ranging all the way from the mighty Sulma Water in the West Burrafirth road, to lochs along the AD71 and all the way down to the temperamental Stump. Usually making the correct choice of loch on an evening like this is of paramount importance. However on this occasion it transpired that the angling was very difficult everywhere with the trout very reluctant to come to the fly. It seemed that the cold snap had returned just a day too early!
As anglers reconvened at 2230 most competitors only had one or two fish to weigh in.
A tense weigh in ensued overseen by Billy Reid where everyone was aware that a couple of ounces either way would have a significant bearing on the points. As Mark Sandison tried to work out the places there was a certain degree of schoolboy cheek and insubordination from the excitable Dave Wright and Harry Sandison. Luckily Leslie Barclay was on hand to fire a warning shot across the bows of the two miscreants!
Taking first place was the ever amazing Bobby Irvine with four fish for 3 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz. Bobby's basket included the heaviest trout of the evening at 1 lb, 4 & 1/2 oz. Bobby's top fly was that old favourite the "Clan Chief."
In second place was Derek Titheradge who took three trout from the often overlooked Turdale Water for 2 lb, 5 & 1/4 oz. Derek's killing fly was a "Lime Tailed Olive."
Third spot went to Greg Anderson who had three from Mousavord for 1 lb, 8 oz. on an "Orange Snatcher."
Other anglers managing to weigh in on a very tricky evening were Billy Reid, Gilbert Williamson, Harry Sandison, Dave Wright, Ian Reid, Michael Williamson, Luke Johnson, Darren Laurenson, Mark Sandison, Leslie Barclay and Robert Scougal.
This result cements Bobby Irvine’s excellent start to the season and has opened up a clear gap in the league between himself and the chasing pack.
Many thanks again to the top three anglers who donated there killing flies for presentation on the S.A.A. website. Derek Titheradge did need a bit of gentle persuasion from S.A.A. "heavies" Leslie Barclay and Billy Reid before producing his "Lime Tailed Olive" claiming that it was “the only one he had.” He did come round however when it was pointed out that he would have the chance of winning it back plus all the other season’s top flies at the end of the season!
Round four of the bank league will be fished on Thursday 26th May with an 1815 check in at Mavis Grind.
Round four of the bank league will be fished on Thursday 26th May with an 1815 check in at Mavis Grind.
"Lime Tailed Olive." "Clan Chief." "Orange Snatcher."
Pottinger Benston Trophy 5-5-16
Seven anglers gathered at the Benston boat park last Thursday evening to fish for the “Pottinger Benston Trophy.” On a good day Benston would probably feature in a list of the top five dourest lochs in Shetland. On a bad day it is nearly impossible! It has been known to reduce even the most resolute of fly fishers to tears.
As a result then it was a very select band of hardcore flyfishers led by the indomitable Derek Titheradge who had volunteered to spend four hours on this toughest of venues.
From great adversity comes great camaraderie however and the Dunkirk spirit was very much in evidence as anglers swapped their "killing Benston patterns." Gilbert Williamson gave Billy Reid one of his prized big fish flies but did look a bit askance at the offering which was made in return from a dusty corner of one of Billy's boxes!
Rumours in recent weeks of stockies keen to come to the fly combined with a definite rise in the temperature over the previous few days meant that competitors were perhaps a bit more upbeat than usual when faced with the prospect of a session on this difficult water.
This optimism was reflected at the 1815 kick off which saw some anglers nearly sprinting to their favourite spots and fishy points.
The on fire Tony Li had every right to be optimistic. He waded into the loch twenty metres along the shore and was into fish right away. He had four trout in his basket within the first forty minutes of the competition. An occurrence virtually unheard of in Benston! A blue moon could be seen clearly overhead.
Indeed over the course of the evening several rods were to be seen bent into fish. A very unusual sight in this competition.
As competitors gathered in the darkening for the 10.30 p.m. weigh in transpired that all seven anglers had trout to weigh in. This is the first time in living memory that everyone entering this competition has weighed in fish!
Cruising into first place at a canter with a fantastic basket of six fish for 4 lb, 15 & ¼ oz. was of course Tony Li. Tony’s top fly was that old classic lure the “Ace of Spades.” This is the first time that Tony’s name has appeared on the elusive “Pottinger Benston Trophy.” Pundits are predicting that it won’t be the last!
In second spot was the ever consistent Bobby Irvine. Bobby basket of two fish weighed 3 lb, 8 oz. and contained the heaviest trout of the evening at 2 lb, 9 & ¼ oz. Bobby’s killing fly was a creation of fellow Bonnie Isle man Gilbert Williamson – “Gilbert’s D.P. Orange Palmer.”
Third place went to Mark Sandison with three for 2 lb, 10 & ½ oz. Sandison’s top fly was an “Orange Straggle Palmer.”
On a night however when everyone was a winner other anglers weighing in were Gilbert Williamson, Billy Reid, Derek Titheradge and Greg Anderson.
The next Fly bank competition is round four of the league which takes place on Thursday 26th May with an 1815 check in at Mavis Grind.
Seven anglers gathered at the Benston boat park last Thursday evening to fish for the “Pottinger Benston Trophy.” On a good day Benston would probably feature in a list of the top five dourest lochs in Shetland. On a bad day it is nearly impossible! It has been known to reduce even the most resolute of fly fishers to tears.
As a result then it was a very select band of hardcore flyfishers led by the indomitable Derek Titheradge who had volunteered to spend four hours on this toughest of venues.
From great adversity comes great camaraderie however and the Dunkirk spirit was very much in evidence as anglers swapped their "killing Benston patterns." Gilbert Williamson gave Billy Reid one of his prized big fish flies but did look a bit askance at the offering which was made in return from a dusty corner of one of Billy's boxes!
Rumours in recent weeks of stockies keen to come to the fly combined with a definite rise in the temperature over the previous few days meant that competitors were perhaps a bit more upbeat than usual when faced with the prospect of a session on this difficult water.
This optimism was reflected at the 1815 kick off which saw some anglers nearly sprinting to their favourite spots and fishy points.
The on fire Tony Li had every right to be optimistic. He waded into the loch twenty metres along the shore and was into fish right away. He had four trout in his basket within the first forty minutes of the competition. An occurrence virtually unheard of in Benston! A blue moon could be seen clearly overhead.
Indeed over the course of the evening several rods were to be seen bent into fish. A very unusual sight in this competition.
As competitors gathered in the darkening for the 10.30 p.m. weigh in transpired that all seven anglers had trout to weigh in. This is the first time in living memory that everyone entering this competition has weighed in fish!
Cruising into first place at a canter with a fantastic basket of six fish for 4 lb, 15 & ¼ oz. was of course Tony Li. Tony’s top fly was that old classic lure the “Ace of Spades.” This is the first time that Tony’s name has appeared on the elusive “Pottinger Benston Trophy.” Pundits are predicting that it won’t be the last!
In second spot was the ever consistent Bobby Irvine. Bobby basket of two fish weighed 3 lb, 8 oz. and contained the heaviest trout of the evening at 2 lb, 9 & ¼ oz. Bobby’s killing fly was a creation of fellow Bonnie Isle man Gilbert Williamson – “Gilbert’s D.P. Orange Palmer.”
Third place went to Mark Sandison with three for 2 lb, 10 & ½ oz. Sandison’s top fly was an “Orange Straggle Palmer.”
On a night however when everyone was a winner other anglers weighing in were Gilbert Williamson, Billy Reid, Derek Titheradge and Greg Anderson.
The next Fly bank competition is round four of the league which takes place on Thursday 26th May with an 1815 check in at Mavis Grind.
"Gilbert's Orange Palmer." "Ace of Spades." "Orange Straggle Palmer."
Bank League Round 2 - Central & South 30-4-16
At last! – A beautiful Spring Saturday morning greeted the 20 anglers who checked in last Saturday morning at the Tingwall boat shed for round two of the Shetland Anglers association Fly Bank League! The wind had gone into the South and fallen away to a gentle ripple, the temperature had doubled over the week, the forecast was showing cloud cover for the duration of the day and little "buzzery" things were swarming round the boat shed. It doesn’t get much better than this for intrepid trooters!
It was good to see Gary "Sky" Williamson attending his annual S.A.A. competition. It was also fantastic to see two old campaigners back in harness - The indomitable Jeemie Sandison and also Derek Titheradge who had finally overcome his teething problems.
Conspicuous by his absence was Stephen Breivik who had picked up an injury in round one of the league while over extending himself casting. We wish Stephen all the best for a speedy recovery.
It was great to see a keen John Tait back for more trooty action after nearly catching his death of cold at his first ever bank competition a fortnight ago. Unfortunately for John he would have to sort out some mechanical issues before he could get fishing as his good lady wife, just fresh back from running the London Marathon, had managed to drain the car battery. However the very fact that John was planning to compete at all after getting the car sorted out is testimony to his "never say die" attitude. This is exactly the kind of spirit and commitment that is required for the bank league.
While everyone was lounging around in T-shirts in the balmy conditions Mark Sandison got a bit of stick as he was seen putting on an extra layer of clothing under his waders.
Understandably anglers were champing at the bit to get going and revving engines could be heard resonating up and down the valley. Well done to everyone however for not getting too caught up in the excitement and waiting for the customary double blast on Competition Secretary Billy Reid's horn which signalled kick off.
Anglers had a choice of lochs in the Tingwall area all the way down to Spiggie, Broo and Clumlie in the Deep South.
The majority of angler's initial efforts were concentrated on Spiggie. However, despite the forecast, "Old Jamaica" soon made an appearance and would stay out for most of the day. This combined with a definite nip still in the air meant that the early enthusiasm was soon curtailed. Sandison was certainly glad of his extra layers! The sight of anglers returning to their cars and heading to fresh venues was indication that the angling was proving to be extremely difficult.
As competitors reconvened for the 1745 weigh in it transpired that the angling had indeed been very hard going with just over half of the original crew returning with fish.
It was the anglers who had stuck it out in Spiggie who had faired best as a slight rise in temperature in the afternoon had seen the trout becoming slightly more interested - albeit briefly!
Taking first place after hitting a lucky purple patch was Mark Sandison with eight trout for 4 lb, 13 oz. Sandison's top fly was a "Pearly White Cat." In second spot was Peter Laurenson with four for 4 lb, & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on his own Spiggie special - an "Olive Midge." Laurenson's basket included a "beezer" of 2 lb, 2 oz. which in most competitions would have easily taken the "heaviest fish award." However on this occasion the heaviest fish was a specimen of 2 lb, 7 oz, which fell to James Henry's "Merky Hulk." This beauty along with one other from Broo gave Henry a total basket weight of 3 lb, 9 & 1/4 oz. and third place on the day.
Again these flies can be viewed in the "competitions" section of the S.A.A. website at http://www.shetlandtrout.co.uk/
Other anglers gaining points were Darren Laurenson, Jeemie Sandison, Billy Reid, Leslie Barclay, Bobby Irvine, Gary Williamson, Ian Reid and Alastair Jamieson.
An unlucky Graeme Callander was disqualified after returning to the weigh in five minutes late. Callander had got carried away in Spiggie and completely lost track of time leaving himself too much to do in the run up the road. Getting stuck behind a cement lorry hadn't helped his cause!
This leaves the league as follows after two competitions in what is already shaping up to be an exciting contest.
At last! – A beautiful Spring Saturday morning greeted the 20 anglers who checked in last Saturday morning at the Tingwall boat shed for round two of the Shetland Anglers association Fly Bank League! The wind had gone into the South and fallen away to a gentle ripple, the temperature had doubled over the week, the forecast was showing cloud cover for the duration of the day and little "buzzery" things were swarming round the boat shed. It doesn’t get much better than this for intrepid trooters!
It was good to see Gary "Sky" Williamson attending his annual S.A.A. competition. It was also fantastic to see two old campaigners back in harness - The indomitable Jeemie Sandison and also Derek Titheradge who had finally overcome his teething problems.
Conspicuous by his absence was Stephen Breivik who had picked up an injury in round one of the league while over extending himself casting. We wish Stephen all the best for a speedy recovery.
It was great to see a keen John Tait back for more trooty action after nearly catching his death of cold at his first ever bank competition a fortnight ago. Unfortunately for John he would have to sort out some mechanical issues before he could get fishing as his good lady wife, just fresh back from running the London Marathon, had managed to drain the car battery. However the very fact that John was planning to compete at all after getting the car sorted out is testimony to his "never say die" attitude. This is exactly the kind of spirit and commitment that is required for the bank league.
While everyone was lounging around in T-shirts in the balmy conditions Mark Sandison got a bit of stick as he was seen putting on an extra layer of clothing under his waders.
Understandably anglers were champing at the bit to get going and revving engines could be heard resonating up and down the valley. Well done to everyone however for not getting too caught up in the excitement and waiting for the customary double blast on Competition Secretary Billy Reid's horn which signalled kick off.
Anglers had a choice of lochs in the Tingwall area all the way down to Spiggie, Broo and Clumlie in the Deep South.
The majority of angler's initial efforts were concentrated on Spiggie. However, despite the forecast, "Old Jamaica" soon made an appearance and would stay out for most of the day. This combined with a definite nip still in the air meant that the early enthusiasm was soon curtailed. Sandison was certainly glad of his extra layers! The sight of anglers returning to their cars and heading to fresh venues was indication that the angling was proving to be extremely difficult.
As competitors reconvened for the 1745 weigh in it transpired that the angling had indeed been very hard going with just over half of the original crew returning with fish.
It was the anglers who had stuck it out in Spiggie who had faired best as a slight rise in temperature in the afternoon had seen the trout becoming slightly more interested - albeit briefly!
Taking first place after hitting a lucky purple patch was Mark Sandison with eight trout for 4 lb, 13 oz. Sandison's top fly was a "Pearly White Cat." In second spot was Peter Laurenson with four for 4 lb, & 1/4 oz. taken mainly on his own Spiggie special - an "Olive Midge." Laurenson's basket included a "beezer" of 2 lb, 2 oz. which in most competitions would have easily taken the "heaviest fish award." However on this occasion the heaviest fish was a specimen of 2 lb, 7 oz, which fell to James Henry's "Merky Hulk." This beauty along with one other from Broo gave Henry a total basket weight of 3 lb, 9 & 1/4 oz. and third place on the day.
Again these flies can be viewed in the "competitions" section of the S.A.A. website at http://www.shetlandtrout.co.uk/
Other anglers gaining points were Darren Laurenson, Jeemie Sandison, Billy Reid, Leslie Barclay, Bobby Irvine, Gary Williamson, Ian Reid and Alastair Jamieson.
An unlucky Graeme Callander was disqualified after returning to the weigh in five minutes late. Callander had got carried away in Spiggie and completely lost track of time leaving himself too much to do in the run up the road. Getting stuck behind a cement lorry hadn't helped his cause!
This leaves the league as follows after two competitions in what is already shaping up to be an exciting contest.
The next league competition takes place on Thursday 12th May with an 1815 check in at the Bixter graveyard. The switch to Thursday evening competitions is a sign that summer has surely arrived!
"Merky Hulk." "Pearly White Cat." "Olive Midge."
Shetland Times Trophy 23-4-16
On another frigid Shetland Spring Saturday morning with the temperature barely registering 3 degrees, a dozen hardy anglers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed to fish for the coveted “Shetland Times trophy.” This is one of the oldest and most beautiful trophies in the S.A.A. trophy cabinet. Any angler winning this trophy really can rest assured that they’ve truly “arrived” in the cutthroat world of competition fly fishing!
All those present were kitted out with woolly hats, base layers, snow shoes and neoprine waders. Motorists heading through the Tingwall valley could have been forgiven for thinking that they were witnessing a gathering for the start of a polar expedition!
One angler conspicuous by his absence was the usually ever present Derek Titheradge. However as his angling buddy Dave Wright was quick to point out, Derek would be back in action once he had "worn in" his new set of false teeth!
Despite the inclement conditions everyone was champing at the bit to get going. Competitors had a choice of all the lochs on the competition sheet and as ever making the correct choice of venue would be of paramount importance..
With the freezing cold Northerly wind today’s event was destined to be a real endurance test. The temperature would peak at a balmy five degrees in the early afternoon but this did little to thaw out frozen fingers – or indeed any other body part that weren’t well insulated!
More snow showers and accompanying drop in temperature during the last two hours of the competition was just too much for some of the competitors who headed home for an early bath.
Needless to say it was a sadly depleted group who reconvened at the Tingwall Shed for the 1745 weigh in. As Leslie Barclay pointed out this was surely the hardiest of hardy anglers.
Taking first place and the "Shetland Times" trophy for the second time in three years was the ever popular Whalsay man Ian Reid who had an excellent basket, considering the conditions, of six trout for 3 lb, 12 & 1/2 oz. Reid had taken a magical mystery tour of the "Deep South" and "Wild West," Ian's top fly was a "Pearly Invicta."
Second place went to the on form Tony Li who had five fish for 3 lb, & 1/4 oz. from Tingwall taken mainly on a "Peach Muddler." In third spot was the ever consistent Graeme Callander who had five from Spiggie for 2 lb, 6 & 3/4 oz. Graeme's top fly was a "Red Bellied Water Spider."
However this was a day when "everyone was a winner" and other anglers with fish were Mark Sandison, Billy Reid and - weighing in at his first competition - Luke Johnson.
Many thanks again to the top three anglers who donated their successful flies for display on the S.A.A. website "competitions" section. Graeme Callander was initially somewhat reluctant to donate his killing fly but after some gentle persuasion by Billy Reid and Leslie Barclay he surrendered his beautifully tied "Red Bellied Water Spider."
The next fly competition is round two of the bank league which takes place on Saturday 30th April with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall boat shed. Surely temperatures will have climbed a couple of degrees by then!
And finally apologies to Whalsay man Gilbert Williamson who wasn't included in the list of debutantes in last week's report. Although Gilbert has attended many S.A.A. competitions in the past, this was his first Bank League outing. Many thanks to Ian Reid for setting the S.A.A. press secretary right on this matter and providing assurances that Gilbert hadn't taken "da dorts" as a result of the oversight!
On another frigid Shetland Spring Saturday morning with the temperature barely registering 3 degrees, a dozen hardy anglers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed to fish for the coveted “Shetland Times trophy.” This is one of the oldest and most beautiful trophies in the S.A.A. trophy cabinet. Any angler winning this trophy really can rest assured that they’ve truly “arrived” in the cutthroat world of competition fly fishing!
All those present were kitted out with woolly hats, base layers, snow shoes and neoprine waders. Motorists heading through the Tingwall valley could have been forgiven for thinking that they were witnessing a gathering for the start of a polar expedition!
One angler conspicuous by his absence was the usually ever present Derek Titheradge. However as his angling buddy Dave Wright was quick to point out, Derek would be back in action once he had "worn in" his new set of false teeth!
Despite the inclement conditions everyone was champing at the bit to get going. Competitors had a choice of all the lochs on the competition sheet and as ever making the correct choice of venue would be of paramount importance..
With the freezing cold Northerly wind today’s event was destined to be a real endurance test. The temperature would peak at a balmy five degrees in the early afternoon but this did little to thaw out frozen fingers – or indeed any other body part that weren’t well insulated!
More snow showers and accompanying drop in temperature during the last two hours of the competition was just too much for some of the competitors who headed home for an early bath.
Needless to say it was a sadly depleted group who reconvened at the Tingwall Shed for the 1745 weigh in. As Leslie Barclay pointed out this was surely the hardiest of hardy anglers.
Taking first place and the "Shetland Times" trophy for the second time in three years was the ever popular Whalsay man Ian Reid who had an excellent basket, considering the conditions, of six trout for 3 lb, 12 & 1/2 oz. Reid had taken a magical mystery tour of the "Deep South" and "Wild West," Ian's top fly was a "Pearly Invicta."
Second place went to the on form Tony Li who had five fish for 3 lb, & 1/4 oz. from Tingwall taken mainly on a "Peach Muddler." In third spot was the ever consistent Graeme Callander who had five from Spiggie for 2 lb, 6 & 3/4 oz. Graeme's top fly was a "Red Bellied Water Spider."
However this was a day when "everyone was a winner" and other anglers with fish were Mark Sandison, Billy Reid and - weighing in at his first competition - Luke Johnson.
Many thanks again to the top three anglers who donated their successful flies for display on the S.A.A. website "competitions" section. Graeme Callander was initially somewhat reluctant to donate his killing fly but after some gentle persuasion by Billy Reid and Leslie Barclay he surrendered his beautifully tied "Red Bellied Water Spider."
The next fly competition is round two of the bank league which takes place on Saturday 30th April with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall boat shed. Surely temperatures will have climbed a couple of degrees by then!
And finally apologies to Whalsay man Gilbert Williamson who wasn't included in the list of debutantes in last week's report. Although Gilbert has attended many S.A.A. competitions in the past, this was his first Bank League outing. Many thanks to Ian Reid for setting the S.A.A. press secretary right on this matter and providing assurances that Gilbert hadn't taken "da dorts" as a result of the oversight!
"Pearly Invicta." "Peach Muddler." "Red Bellied Water Spider."
Central Mainland 16-4-16
An arctic airstream and freezing cold Northerly wind last weekend could only mean one thing. No, not the start of the lambing season, but the first Shetland Anglers Association bank competition of the year!
The frigid conditions however didn’t deter the 18 hardy and excited fly fishers who checked in at the Tingwall boat shed on Saturday morning to fish the central mainland lochs.
Most of the usual suspects were in attendance including the dapper Leslie Barclay who was looking resplendent in brand new waders. More than a few of those present did wonder how the waders would stand up after Leslie’s first encounter with a barbed wire fence! They need not have worried. Leslie had already managed to put a size 10 "Connemmara Black" through one of the neoprene soles which would lead to a wet foot later in the day for the intrepid Barclay.
There was an unusually large number of "boaty" anglers in attendance including the larger than life Stephen Breivik who had come to "show everyone how it was done!" Breivik has attempted to come and play in the "big boy's playground" before only to end up having to go home without his football! Everyone was keen to see how he would fare this time.
It was also great to see James Henry and John Tait attending their first bank league competitions and we look forward to seeing much more of these two in the future.
After Stephen Breivik had held court in the boatshed it was time to get going. Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the central mainland from Benston, Petta Water and Sandwater in the North right down through the Tingwall valley to the Sandy Loch, Trebister and Brindister.
It was Tingwall that would see most of the early attention but of course in the cold Northerly wind the majority of anglers found the trout very reluctant to come to the fly. The sun coming out in the afternoon only compounded the problem and the amount of "no shows" at the 1745 weigh in was indicative of just how difficult the angling had been.
As ever however there are always some flyfishers who rise to the occasion and buck the trend.
Taking first place with a fantastic basket of eleven trout for 6 lb, 12 & 1/4 oz. was Bobby Irvine. Bobby had spent the Day on the often overlooked Griesta where he had found the fish keen to come to his "Gold ribbed Blue Zulu" in the bright sun.
In second spot with another incredible basket of ten trout for 5 lb, 14 & 3/4 oz. was Alastair Jamieson. Alastair took all his fish from a 50 metre stretch of bank in Tingwall where he had used his small imitative spider patterns to devastating effect.
Third place went to Darren Laurenson with two fish from the dour Benston for 5 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz. One of Darren's fish was a specimen of 3 lb, 11 & 1/2 oz. which fell to a "Darren's Demon." This monster has certainly set the bar high for the biggest fish of the season!
Other anglers among the points were Billy Reid, Tony Li, Mark Sandison, Peter Laurenson, Ian Reid, Leslie Barclay and Stephen Breivik.
Special mention must go to the multitasking Barclay who had managed to catch a trout in between going home to put on dry socks and cheer on his beloved Hibs in the Scottish Cup semi final.
Also a special thanks to Bobby Irvine, Alastair Jamieson and Darren Laurenson who donated their killing flies for display on the S.A.A. website (http://www.shetlandtrout.co.uk/). These can be found in the "competitions" section. Hopefully this will start a trend for the rest of the bank league competitions this year and the complete set of killing flies will be raffled at the end of the season.
The next bank competition is the ever popular Shetland Times trophy which takes place on Saturday 23rd April with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall boat shed. The next bank league competition is on Saturday 30th April also with a 1030 check in and again at the Tingwall shed. Let’s hope it’s warmed up a bit by then!
Competitors are also asked to note a mistake that might feature on some rogue competition sheets. - There is no bank competition on Thursday 14th July. This competition has been moved forward a week to Thursday 7th July.
An arctic airstream and freezing cold Northerly wind last weekend could only mean one thing. No, not the start of the lambing season, but the first Shetland Anglers Association bank competition of the year!
The frigid conditions however didn’t deter the 18 hardy and excited fly fishers who checked in at the Tingwall boat shed on Saturday morning to fish the central mainland lochs.
Most of the usual suspects were in attendance including the dapper Leslie Barclay who was looking resplendent in brand new waders. More than a few of those present did wonder how the waders would stand up after Leslie’s first encounter with a barbed wire fence! They need not have worried. Leslie had already managed to put a size 10 "Connemmara Black" through one of the neoprene soles which would lead to a wet foot later in the day for the intrepid Barclay.
There was an unusually large number of "boaty" anglers in attendance including the larger than life Stephen Breivik who had come to "show everyone how it was done!" Breivik has attempted to come and play in the "big boy's playground" before only to end up having to go home without his football! Everyone was keen to see how he would fare this time.
It was also great to see James Henry and John Tait attending their first bank league competitions and we look forward to seeing much more of these two in the future.
After Stephen Breivik had held court in the boatshed it was time to get going. Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the central mainland from Benston, Petta Water and Sandwater in the North right down through the Tingwall valley to the Sandy Loch, Trebister and Brindister.
It was Tingwall that would see most of the early attention but of course in the cold Northerly wind the majority of anglers found the trout very reluctant to come to the fly. The sun coming out in the afternoon only compounded the problem and the amount of "no shows" at the 1745 weigh in was indicative of just how difficult the angling had been.
As ever however there are always some flyfishers who rise to the occasion and buck the trend.
Taking first place with a fantastic basket of eleven trout for 6 lb, 12 & 1/4 oz. was Bobby Irvine. Bobby had spent the Day on the often overlooked Griesta where he had found the fish keen to come to his "Gold ribbed Blue Zulu" in the bright sun.
In second spot with another incredible basket of ten trout for 5 lb, 14 & 3/4 oz. was Alastair Jamieson. Alastair took all his fish from a 50 metre stretch of bank in Tingwall where he had used his small imitative spider patterns to devastating effect.
Third place went to Darren Laurenson with two fish from the dour Benston for 5 lb, 1 & 1/4 oz. One of Darren's fish was a specimen of 3 lb, 11 & 1/2 oz. which fell to a "Darren's Demon." This monster has certainly set the bar high for the biggest fish of the season!
Other anglers among the points were Billy Reid, Tony Li, Mark Sandison, Peter Laurenson, Ian Reid, Leslie Barclay and Stephen Breivik.
Special mention must go to the multitasking Barclay who had managed to catch a trout in between going home to put on dry socks and cheer on his beloved Hibs in the Scottish Cup semi final.
Also a special thanks to Bobby Irvine, Alastair Jamieson and Darren Laurenson who donated their killing flies for display on the S.A.A. website (http://www.shetlandtrout.co.uk/). These can be found in the "competitions" section. Hopefully this will start a trend for the rest of the bank league competitions this year and the complete set of killing flies will be raffled at the end of the season.
The next bank competition is the ever popular Shetland Times trophy which takes place on Saturday 23rd April with a 1030 check in at the Tingwall boat shed. The next bank league competition is on Saturday 30th April also with a 1030 check in and again at the Tingwall shed. Let’s hope it’s warmed up a bit by then!
Competitors are also asked to note a mistake that might feature on some rogue competition sheets. - There is no bank competition on Thursday 14th July. This competition has been moved forward a week to Thursday 7th July.
"Gold Ribbed Blue Zulu." "Darren's Demon." "Dark Watchet."