Burnie Cup 5-10-19
Last Saturday morning at 8.30 start saw 11 glory hunting Anglers at the Tingwall boat shed and the Laxo ferry terminal head of to every corner of Shetland to fight it out for the prestigious Burnie Cup in the last bank competition on the penultimate day of the brown trout season, conspicuous in his absence was SAA secretary Billy Reid who was away barracuda fishing in Lanzarote ,,But reporting back fit and eager to make up for lost time after his year of injury hell was the sanguine Leslie Barclay who was champing at the bit before the starting gun, The weather was SE fresh wind 9 degrees and sunny hardly ideal conditions for the troots , during the day Anglers could be seen driving all over the mainland in there own personal quests of Glory. but at the 16.30 weigh in at the Laxo terminal there was several keen eyed Anglers with bags of fish anticipating the out come with tales of pushing bodys to there physical limits in search of that winning formula , in 3rd place was MR consistent himself Magnus hot rod Reid with 5 fish for 2lb 15 oz Magnus had success on the often overlooked kellister on a hammels bumble, in 2nd place was the bang in form Kevin Robertson who acquired an exellent basket of 10 fish for 6lb 8oz kevin had 4 from Voxterby before switching to Clousta and picking up another 6 Kevins top fly was a licourice allsort,, But taking first place and the Burnie Cup was non other than the incredible Bobby Irvine,, Bobby amassed a huge basket of 12 trouts for 7lb 12oz from the Loch of Ustaness Bobbys top fly was a stingy bee half hog,,As Bobby received the Cup to a large round of applause every body present admitted it had been a great days fishing,other successfull Anglers were Wullie Hutchison, Ian hot rod Reid(who walked 12 miles and fished every loch between Sulma Water and finally catching 4 in Flat Punds!), Derek Titheradge, and Leslie Barclay, NO shows Mark Sandison was last seen by Kevin Robertson driving along a west side road with his back door flapping open, he wasnt sure if it was a mechanical fault or absent-mindedness!, And Dave Wright who Titheradge witnessed nearly swimming after a fish Dave had allready banked shooting back into the water to freedom at setter ,,Thats it for another year in this elite sport.! The annual prize giving will be on in the coming month date to be announced,, TIGHT LINES EVERYBODY,,, (L.B.)
Last Saturday morning at 8.30 start saw 11 glory hunting Anglers at the Tingwall boat shed and the Laxo ferry terminal head of to every corner of Shetland to fight it out for the prestigious Burnie Cup in the last bank competition on the penultimate day of the brown trout season, conspicuous in his absence was SAA secretary Billy Reid who was away barracuda fishing in Lanzarote ,,But reporting back fit and eager to make up for lost time after his year of injury hell was the sanguine Leslie Barclay who was champing at the bit before the starting gun, The weather was SE fresh wind 9 degrees and sunny hardly ideal conditions for the troots , during the day Anglers could be seen driving all over the mainland in there own personal quests of Glory. but at the 16.30 weigh in at the Laxo terminal there was several keen eyed Anglers with bags of fish anticipating the out come with tales of pushing bodys to there physical limits in search of that winning formula , in 3rd place was MR consistent himself Magnus hot rod Reid with 5 fish for 2lb 15 oz Magnus had success on the often overlooked kellister on a hammels bumble, in 2nd place was the bang in form Kevin Robertson who acquired an exellent basket of 10 fish for 6lb 8oz kevin had 4 from Voxterby before switching to Clousta and picking up another 6 Kevins top fly was a licourice allsort,, But taking first place and the Burnie Cup was non other than the incredible Bobby Irvine,, Bobby amassed a huge basket of 12 trouts for 7lb 12oz from the Loch of Ustaness Bobbys top fly was a stingy bee half hog,,As Bobby received the Cup to a large round of applause every body present admitted it had been a great days fishing,other successfull Anglers were Wullie Hutchison, Ian hot rod Reid(who walked 12 miles and fished every loch between Sulma Water and finally catching 4 in Flat Punds!), Derek Titheradge, and Leslie Barclay, NO shows Mark Sandison was last seen by Kevin Robertson driving along a west side road with his back door flapping open, he wasnt sure if it was a mechanical fault or absent-mindedness!, And Dave Wright who Titheradge witnessed nearly swimming after a fish Dave had allready banked shooting back into the water to freedom at setter ,,Thats it for another year in this elite sport.! The annual prize giving will be on in the coming month date to be announced,, TIGHT LINES EVERYBODY,,, (L.B.)
Research Trophy 14-9-19
Just like Up Helly Aa, when it comes to Shetland Angler’s Association bank competitions there is “no postponement for weather!” And so it was last Saturday morning when four of Shetland’s toughest flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed to fish for the world famous “Research Trophy.”
Leslie Barclay had been in contact and was at pains to point out that he would have been present if he hadn’t been recovering from a life threatening illness - and Bobby Irvine was “aff!”
Our four intrepid musketeers left the Tingwall shed at the 10.00 kick off with a force ten gale blasting up the valley. This soon deteriorated into the forecasted hurricane with monsoon rains which of course meant breakers rolling down the lochs and the burns in spate.
At the 17.40 weigh in anglers noted that they could actually see the water in the lochs turning black as they fished.
Despite these numerous challenges however competitors had drawn on all their experience to put together some very impressive baskets over the course of the day.
On a day when undoubtedly everyone was a winner, fourth spot went to Mark Sandison with six fish for 4 lb, 3 oz. In third place was the “never say die” Harry Sandison who had seven trout for 4 lb, 8 ¼ oz. Harry had fished the often overlooked Brindister. Runner up was Ian Reid with an impressive nine fish for 6 lb, 3 ¼ oz.
In first place however and picking up the “Research Trophy” was a delighted Billy Reid with a superb eight trout for 7 lb, 1 ¼ oz. This was an excellent average under very testing conditions. Billy’s basket also contained the heaviest fish of the day at 1 lb, 11 ½ oz. which fell to a big “Olive Hedgehog.”
Reid received a resounding round of applause for his achievement. Well done Billy!
The final bank competition of the season takes place on Saturday 5th October when fly fishers will fish for the legendary “Burnie Cup.” This has an 08.30 check in at either Tingwall or Laxo with a 16.30 check in at Laxo.
Just like Up Helly Aa, when it comes to Shetland Angler’s Association bank competitions there is “no postponement for weather!” And so it was last Saturday morning when four of Shetland’s toughest flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed to fish for the world famous “Research Trophy.”
Leslie Barclay had been in contact and was at pains to point out that he would have been present if he hadn’t been recovering from a life threatening illness - and Bobby Irvine was “aff!”
Our four intrepid musketeers left the Tingwall shed at the 10.00 kick off with a force ten gale blasting up the valley. This soon deteriorated into the forecasted hurricane with monsoon rains which of course meant breakers rolling down the lochs and the burns in spate.
At the 17.40 weigh in anglers noted that they could actually see the water in the lochs turning black as they fished.
Despite these numerous challenges however competitors had drawn on all their experience to put together some very impressive baskets over the course of the day.
On a day when undoubtedly everyone was a winner, fourth spot went to Mark Sandison with six fish for 4 lb, 3 oz. In third place was the “never say die” Harry Sandison who had seven trout for 4 lb, 8 ¼ oz. Harry had fished the often overlooked Brindister. Runner up was Ian Reid with an impressive nine fish for 6 lb, 3 ¼ oz.
In first place however and picking up the “Research Trophy” was a delighted Billy Reid with a superb eight trout for 7 lb, 1 ¼ oz. This was an excellent average under very testing conditions. Billy’s basket also contained the heaviest fish of the day at 1 lb, 11 ½ oz. which fell to a big “Olive Hedgehog.”
Reid received a resounding round of applause for his achievement. Well done Billy!
The final bank competition of the season takes place on Saturday 5th October when fly fishers will fish for the legendary “Burnie Cup.” This has an 08.30 check in at either Tingwall or Laxo with a 16.30 check in at Laxo.
Pairs Trophy 7-9-19
Several lethal looking partnerships rocked up at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning for the annual pairs trophy. It was good to see the legendary John Laurenson in attendance and also James Henry who were both making their first appearance at a bank competition for a good few years now.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the force of nature that is Leslie Barclay. Leslie has had a poor week involving a trip to A & E. Everybody present was unanimous in wishing the Big Man a speedy recovery.
A chilly Northwest wind and sunshine were hardly ideal fly fishing conditions. No one had informed the trout of this fact however and some excellent baskets were presented for weighing at the end of the day.
In fifth and sixth spot were Ian Reid & Ed Leask and Magnie Reid & Grieg Anderson. Fourth place went to Frank Watt & James Henry. In bronze medal position were Bobby Irvine & John Laurenson, while runners up were Billy Reid and Kevin Robertson. With our lochs continuing to fish well this year both of these teams had baskets which would probably have won this competition at a canter in any other year.
Taking first place however and lifting the pairs trophy for a third consecutive year were a delighted Alastair Jamieson and Mark Sandison.
In a post match interview Sandison paid tribute to his long term Pairs partner noting Jamieson’s positive mental attitude and “never say die” mentality.
With the end of the season fast approaching it’s time again for the ever popular “Research Trophy” which takes place on Saturday 14th September. Competitors please note that this is a 10.00 a.m. check in at either Tingwall or Laxo.
Several lethal looking partnerships rocked up at the Tingwall boat shed last Saturday morning for the annual pairs trophy. It was good to see the legendary John Laurenson in attendance and also James Henry who were both making their first appearance at a bank competition for a good few years now.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the force of nature that is Leslie Barclay. Leslie has had a poor week involving a trip to A & E. Everybody present was unanimous in wishing the Big Man a speedy recovery.
A chilly Northwest wind and sunshine were hardly ideal fly fishing conditions. No one had informed the trout of this fact however and some excellent baskets were presented for weighing at the end of the day.
In fifth and sixth spot were Ian Reid & Ed Leask and Magnie Reid & Grieg Anderson. Fourth place went to Frank Watt & James Henry. In bronze medal position were Bobby Irvine & John Laurenson, while runners up were Billy Reid and Kevin Robertson. With our lochs continuing to fish well this year both of these teams had baskets which would probably have won this competition at a canter in any other year.
Taking first place however and lifting the pairs trophy for a third consecutive year were a delighted Alastair Jamieson and Mark Sandison.
In a post match interview Sandison paid tribute to his long term Pairs partner noting Jamieson’s positive mental attitude and “never say die” mentality.
With the end of the season fast approaching it’s time again for the ever popular “Research Trophy” which takes place on Saturday 14th September. Competitors please note that this is a 10.00 a.m. check in at either Tingwall or Laxo.
S.A.A. v Whalsay 24-8-19
the Annual fly fishing interclub took place recently between Shetland and Whalsay anglers, with 17 Anglers champing at the bit with the added carrot of the illustrious Reids doubles title drawn out of a hat at the weighin it was a good turn out for both teams,and with Whalsay cantering to the title last year the SAA had called out probably one of there most experienced teams in recent memory. with SAA legends Alistair Jamison and Johnny Laurenson drafted in to add steel to this years challenge. the weather was light SW wind a perfect trooty day, before they knew it the starting gun went of and 17 cars shot off from the Tingwall boatshed like the wacky racers!! 7 hours later when both teams gathered for the weighin you just knew it was going to be close after a lot of mental deliberating the scores were announced SAA had 2lb 11 oz average per man to 2lb 9oz Whalsay to this announcement the SAA team all started back slapping and whooping with delight ,team captain Mark Sandison thanked his team mates for the win and commiserated with the vanquished Whalsay team ,Then adding how he hopes its a feeling they will get used to in the years to come. next up came the draw for the Reids Doubles where all 17 Anglers names were put in a hat and drawn out the top 2 ended up being the incredible Bobby Irvine and Magnie hot rod Reid ,the experienced duo had 28 fish for 17lb 5oz,,,,
S.A.A. v Whalsay
The winning S.A.A. team. Billy Reid, Robert Scougal, Leslie Barclay, Mark Sandison, Alastair Jamieson & Dave Wright.
Missing from photo - Tony Li, Derek Titheradge & Johnnie Laurenson.
Missing from photo - Tony Li, Derek Titheradge & Johnnie Laurenson.
Reid's Doubles Winners, Bobby Irvine & Magnie Reid.
Sandison/Irvine Westside Trophy 17-8-19
There was a great deal of excitement (and midges!) in the air as flyfishers gathered at the Bixter Graveyard car park last Saturday morning for the final round of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. Not only was the league title itself in the balance, with four anglers in the running for top spot but places in the top six were still up for grabs which of course would mean a place in next year’s Bank Team to face the Dounreay Flyfishers. Then there was the added spice of the much sought after Sandison/Irvine Westside Trophy being presented to today’s winner. Any angler landing this piece of silverware can rest assured that they have truly “arrived” in the cutthroat world of Shetland competitive fly fishing!
And “cutthroat” was indeed the word as anglers mingled at the Check in when Ian Reid attempted to push Mark Sandison (at least 10 years Ian’s senior!) into a ditch while disguising it as an accident. Luckily for Sandison the ever vigilant competition secretary Billy Reid had spotted the incident and Ian was fortunate to walk away with a caution!
Competitors had a range of all the major lochs on Shetland’s West side to choose from ranging from the waters in the Clousta Road, down to Stump at Skeld and right out along the A971 to the truly “Wild West” in the Sandness road. No shortage of lochs! Unlike the previous year, when none of our waters were at their best, the problem this year would be making the correct choice of venue with all of our lochs fishing so well.
Conditions at the 10.20 kick off left little room for complaint with a warm day and overcast skies. Although it was a flat calm, the forecast was for the wind to freshen from the Southwest. One angler who couldn’t wait for the wind to pick up was Tony Li whom the midges had taken a particular liking to.
The various forecasts that had been carefully scrutinised in the days leading up to the event were all spot on. The wind increased steadily from the South West as the day progressed and the small fiddly patterns of the first hour were replaced by bigger bushier patterns.
As competitors reconvened for the 1740 weigh in and exchanged news it was clear that some fantastic baskets of trout had been taken. It was also notable that in the top six places fish had been taken from five different Westside lochs illustrating just how well The Shetland waters have fished this year.
Taking first place and lifting the “Sandison/Irvine” trophy was the on fire Frank Watt. Frank had a fantastic 20 trout from the mighty Clousta for 11 lb, 11 ½ oz taken mainly on a “G & H Sedge.”
Runner up was Mark Sandison with 15 fish for 9 lb, 13 ¼ oz. from the temperamental Stump where his top fly was a “Clan Chief.” In third place was Billy Reid who weighed in 16 fish for 9 lb, 4 ¼ oz. Billy had fished Clousta and Longa Water where he had scored with an “Olive Hedgehog.”
Fourth Spot went to Ian Reid with nine trout from Clings Water for 8 lb, 10 oz. A fantastic average! Ian’s basket also contained the heaviest fish of the day, a beauty going 1 lb, 12 ¾ oz. which fell to his favourite “Kate McClaren Muddler.”
Other anglers gaining points were Bobby Irvine, Tony Li, Greig Anderson, Alastair Jamieson, Magnie Reid, Dave Wright and Derek Titheradge. This left the final league table for 2019 as follows.
There was a great deal of excitement (and midges!) in the air as flyfishers gathered at the Bixter Graveyard car park last Saturday morning for the final round of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. Not only was the league title itself in the balance, with four anglers in the running for top spot but places in the top six were still up for grabs which of course would mean a place in next year’s Bank Team to face the Dounreay Flyfishers. Then there was the added spice of the much sought after Sandison/Irvine Westside Trophy being presented to today’s winner. Any angler landing this piece of silverware can rest assured that they have truly “arrived” in the cutthroat world of Shetland competitive fly fishing!
And “cutthroat” was indeed the word as anglers mingled at the Check in when Ian Reid attempted to push Mark Sandison (at least 10 years Ian’s senior!) into a ditch while disguising it as an accident. Luckily for Sandison the ever vigilant competition secretary Billy Reid had spotted the incident and Ian was fortunate to walk away with a caution!
Competitors had a range of all the major lochs on Shetland’s West side to choose from ranging from the waters in the Clousta Road, down to Stump at Skeld and right out along the A971 to the truly “Wild West” in the Sandness road. No shortage of lochs! Unlike the previous year, when none of our waters were at their best, the problem this year would be making the correct choice of venue with all of our lochs fishing so well.
Conditions at the 10.20 kick off left little room for complaint with a warm day and overcast skies. Although it was a flat calm, the forecast was for the wind to freshen from the Southwest. One angler who couldn’t wait for the wind to pick up was Tony Li whom the midges had taken a particular liking to.
The various forecasts that had been carefully scrutinised in the days leading up to the event were all spot on. The wind increased steadily from the South West as the day progressed and the small fiddly patterns of the first hour were replaced by bigger bushier patterns.
As competitors reconvened for the 1740 weigh in and exchanged news it was clear that some fantastic baskets of trout had been taken. It was also notable that in the top six places fish had been taken from five different Westside lochs illustrating just how well The Shetland waters have fished this year.
Taking first place and lifting the “Sandison/Irvine” trophy was the on fire Frank Watt. Frank had a fantastic 20 trout from the mighty Clousta for 11 lb, 11 ½ oz taken mainly on a “G & H Sedge.”
Runner up was Mark Sandison with 15 fish for 9 lb, 13 ¼ oz. from the temperamental Stump where his top fly was a “Clan Chief.” In third place was Billy Reid who weighed in 16 fish for 9 lb, 4 ¼ oz. Billy had fished Clousta and Longa Water where he had scored with an “Olive Hedgehog.”
Fourth Spot went to Ian Reid with nine trout from Clings Water for 8 lb, 10 oz. A fantastic average! Ian’s basket also contained the heaviest fish of the day, a beauty going 1 lb, 12 ¾ oz. which fell to his favourite “Kate McClaren Muddler.”
Other anglers gaining points were Bobby Irvine, Tony Li, Greig Anderson, Alastair Jamieson, Magnie Reid, Dave Wright and Derek Titheradge. This left the final league table for 2019 as follows.
After an incredibly exciting run in Frank Watt was crowned League Champion. Frank has fished well all season, hitting a particularly rich vein of form in the second half of the league campaign, achieving three first places in the last five league competitions which has seem him climb steadily up the league to top spot.
A great achievement! The fly bank league is a test of fly fishers skill and ability on very different venues over a range of conditions throughout the season with anglers having to adapt and utilise a variety of tactics accordingly. Consequently it is only anglers at the very top of their game who take the title. Well done Frank. There was a well deserved round of applause from everyone at the weigh in for a worthy winner.
Further down the league table spare a thought for the unfortunate Tony Li who was chasing a top six finish and a team place. His basket of ten trout from Vaara would have been easily enough to win this competition last year. This year however with the lochs fishing so well it was only good enough for fifth place and fifteen points. This meant that Tony finished in seventh place in the league – one place behind old adversary Magnie Reid! Small margins!
Making a guest appearance at the weigh in was Lerwick Up Helly Aa and Westside legend Dale Williamson. Dale arrived just in time to hear his name read out for his league position after gaining points in two competitions in the Spring. Williamson received a special round of applause and promised everyone that he would do better next year and make a bigger effort to attend the competitions.
The Bank League may be over for this year but of course competitive fly fishers can’t hang up their waders just yet. The S.A.A. v Whalsay competition takes place on Saturday 24th August with a 09.00 check in at the Tingwall shed. This year there is the added incentive of the legendary Reid’s Doubles trophy being up for grabs. Then on Saturday 7th September it’s the ever popular Pairs competition with a 10.20 check in at Tingwall. Competitors are reminded that it’s up to themselves to find a partner and that no top six finishers in this year’s league can pair up. On the 14th of September the famous Research trophy takes place with a 10.00 check in at Tingwall or Laxo. And finally to round the season off the “Burnie” cup will be fished for on Saturday 5th October. This is an 08.30 check in at Tingwall or Laxo.
A great achievement! The fly bank league is a test of fly fishers skill and ability on very different venues over a range of conditions throughout the season with anglers having to adapt and utilise a variety of tactics accordingly. Consequently it is only anglers at the very top of their game who take the title. Well done Frank. There was a well deserved round of applause from everyone at the weigh in for a worthy winner.
Further down the league table spare a thought for the unfortunate Tony Li who was chasing a top six finish and a team place. His basket of ten trout from Vaara would have been easily enough to win this competition last year. This year however with the lochs fishing so well it was only good enough for fifth place and fifteen points. This meant that Tony finished in seventh place in the league – one place behind old adversary Magnie Reid! Small margins!
Making a guest appearance at the weigh in was Lerwick Up Helly Aa and Westside legend Dale Williamson. Dale arrived just in time to hear his name read out for his league position after gaining points in two competitions in the Spring. Williamson received a special round of applause and promised everyone that he would do better next year and make a bigger effort to attend the competitions.
The Bank League may be over for this year but of course competitive fly fishers can’t hang up their waders just yet. The S.A.A. v Whalsay competition takes place on Saturday 24th August with a 09.00 check in at the Tingwall shed. This year there is the added incentive of the legendary Reid’s Doubles trophy being up for grabs. Then on Saturday 7th September it’s the ever popular Pairs competition with a 10.20 check in at Tingwall. Competitors are reminded that it’s up to themselves to find a partner and that no top six finishers in this year’s league can pair up. On the 14th of September the famous Research trophy takes place with a 10.00 check in at Tingwall or Laxo. And finally to round the season off the “Burnie” cup will be fished for on Saturday 5th October. This is an 08.30 check in at Tingwall or Laxo.
North Mainland 27-7-19 (Barometer Trophy)
“Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun.” – and sometimes flyfishers as well! It had to happen at some point this season, a day of blazing sunshine and soaring temperatures for a fly fishing competition.
Undeterred however a dozen anglers checked in at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning for the penultimate round of the S.A.A. fly Bank League. Not only would competitors be fishing for the league title itself but also valuable points counting towards qualifying for next year’s team to fish against the D.F.F.A. in Caithness. If this wasn’t enough the famous “Barometer Trophy” would also be up for grabs.
Bonnie Isle comedian Ian Reid had the temerity to comment on S.A.A. official Mark Sandison’s tardiness. The cheeky Reid was given an official caution and warned that any further indiscretions would result in the docking of league points. Another audacious Whalsay man Kevin Robertson also had to be reminded of his place in the S.A.A hierarchy after appearing to come to Reid’s defence.
The pecking order having been re-established and with copious amounts of sun tan lotion having been applied, anglers were good to go. But what was this? Nearly kick off time and no sign of Leslie Barclay. There were more than a few anxious glances back down the road. With a couple of minutes to go however the talismanic Barclay appeared out of the heat haze like a character from a Sergio Leone movie and we were good to go.
Missing from the action today was Bobby Irvine who is one of the main contenders as ever for the title. The question was who would step up and take advantage of Irvine’s absence?
Although the weather was against them competitors had no reason for complaint regarding the choice of water with all the major lochs in the North Mainland on offer. This should also mean that competitors wouldn't be tripping over each other for the prime fishing spots.
The 1020 start saw anglers shooting off to the various corners and hidey holes of North mavine and settling down to a day's angling. The mighty Eela Water would receive most of the early attention but is big enough to accommodate a platoon of anglers.
Anglers at the top of their game have no problem adapting to tricky weather conditions and this was born out at the 1745 weigh in.
Taking first place, the Barometer Trophy and providing a master class in competitive fly fishing was the on fire Frank Watt with an outstanding basket of fourteen trout for 7 lb, 10 & ½ oz. Frank had scored with a “Claret Hedgehog” in Eela Water. This really was a superb performance in what is usually very testing conditions.
In second place was another angler who can do no wrong at the moment. Ian Reid had a sweaty hike into the Mangaster hills where he fished the often overlooked but legendary Brei Water of Nibon. Ian’s bag contained eleven fish for 6 lb, 13 & ¼ oz. This included the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 15 & ½ oz. which fell to a “Kate Mclaren Muddler.” This was another excellent effort which would have probably won this competition on any other occasion!
Third spot went to Billy Reid with six fish for 3lb, 11 & ½ oz. Billy’s top fly was a “Kerr’s Olive.” This result puts Billy into pole position in the league.
Other anglers among the points were Tony Li, Mark Sandison, Magnus Reid, Harry Sandison, Michael Williamson, Kevin Robertson and Dave Wright.
Very conspicuous by his absence at the weigh in was the mercurial Barclay. The lure of a family barbecue at the Burra Beach had proved too much for Leslie and hunger had overcome his will power and resilience half way through the afternoon.
With one competition remaining the league is as follows.
“Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun.” – and sometimes flyfishers as well! It had to happen at some point this season, a day of blazing sunshine and soaring temperatures for a fly fishing competition.
Undeterred however a dozen anglers checked in at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning for the penultimate round of the S.A.A. fly Bank League. Not only would competitors be fishing for the league title itself but also valuable points counting towards qualifying for next year’s team to fish against the D.F.F.A. in Caithness. If this wasn’t enough the famous “Barometer Trophy” would also be up for grabs.
Bonnie Isle comedian Ian Reid had the temerity to comment on S.A.A. official Mark Sandison’s tardiness. The cheeky Reid was given an official caution and warned that any further indiscretions would result in the docking of league points. Another audacious Whalsay man Kevin Robertson also had to be reminded of his place in the S.A.A hierarchy after appearing to come to Reid’s defence.
The pecking order having been re-established and with copious amounts of sun tan lotion having been applied, anglers were good to go. But what was this? Nearly kick off time and no sign of Leslie Barclay. There were more than a few anxious glances back down the road. With a couple of minutes to go however the talismanic Barclay appeared out of the heat haze like a character from a Sergio Leone movie and we were good to go.
Missing from the action today was Bobby Irvine who is one of the main contenders as ever for the title. The question was who would step up and take advantage of Irvine’s absence?
Although the weather was against them competitors had no reason for complaint regarding the choice of water with all the major lochs in the North Mainland on offer. This should also mean that competitors wouldn't be tripping over each other for the prime fishing spots.
The 1020 start saw anglers shooting off to the various corners and hidey holes of North mavine and settling down to a day's angling. The mighty Eela Water would receive most of the early attention but is big enough to accommodate a platoon of anglers.
Anglers at the top of their game have no problem adapting to tricky weather conditions and this was born out at the 1745 weigh in.
Taking first place, the Barometer Trophy and providing a master class in competitive fly fishing was the on fire Frank Watt with an outstanding basket of fourteen trout for 7 lb, 10 & ½ oz. Frank had scored with a “Claret Hedgehog” in Eela Water. This really was a superb performance in what is usually very testing conditions.
In second place was another angler who can do no wrong at the moment. Ian Reid had a sweaty hike into the Mangaster hills where he fished the often overlooked but legendary Brei Water of Nibon. Ian’s bag contained eleven fish for 6 lb, 13 & ¼ oz. This included the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 15 & ½ oz. which fell to a “Kate Mclaren Muddler.” This was another excellent effort which would have probably won this competition on any other occasion!
Third spot went to Billy Reid with six fish for 3lb, 11 & ½ oz. Billy’s top fly was a “Kerr’s Olive.” This result puts Billy into pole position in the league.
Other anglers among the points were Tony Li, Mark Sandison, Magnus Reid, Harry Sandison, Michael Williamson, Kevin Robertson and Dave Wright.
Very conspicuous by his absence at the weigh in was the mercurial Barclay. The lure of a family barbecue at the Burra Beach had proved too much for Leslie and hunger had overcome his will power and resilience half way through the afternoon.
With one competition remaining the league is as follows.
This has probably been the most open Championship in recent years with the top four anglers all still in the running for the league title. Further down the table Ian Reid has probably left it too late for a tilt at the title but today’s result has done his chances of a top six finish no harm whatsoever. Magnus Reid, Tony Li and Greig Anderson are all eyeing those remaining qualifying positions. Everything still to fish for then in the final league competition of the season on Saturday 17th August, including the prestigious Westside Trophy.
The next bank competition is the Excursion trophy when fly fishers can fish any loch not on the competition sheet. This takes place on Saturday 3rd August with a 1020 check in at the Tingwall Shed.
The next bank competition is the Excursion trophy when fly fishers can fish any loch not on the competition sheet. This takes place on Saturday 3rd August with a 1020 check in at the Tingwall Shed.
Westside 18-7-19
Twelve flyfishers checked in at the Bixter graveyard carpark last Thursday evening for round seven of the S.A.A. fly bank league. Competitors were in good spirits, buoyed by the recent success of the S.A.A. team against the D.F.F.A and also with the continued spell of settled weather which shows no sign of abating. The earlier cloud cover had cleared away to leave a beautiful sunny evening – maybe not the best conditions for pursuing the “gentle art.” However with most of the Shetland lochs fishing well this year “Old Jamaica” setting in the West didn’t curb anyone’s enthusiasm.
Derek Titheradge and Dave Wright were quick to castigate Mark Sandison for pulling on a hoody top. Sandison took no notice as he knew he would need the extra layer when the sun dipped below the horizon. Sandison also needed his sunglasses to shield him from the glare of Derek’s brand new set of teeth. Titheradge would have to remember to keep his mouth closed in order not to scare all the fish.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the force of nature that is Leslie Barclay. For once Leslie wasn’t late - or had the wrong date – but had succumbed to an eye injury. Everyone present wished the “big man” a speedy recovery.
Anglers had a choice of 16 lochs in the Wild West. This of course should have worked out at more than one loch per angler. However this ratio seldom pans out as competitors will initially concentrate on the waters that they think will give them the best returns. This was certainly the case tonight as over half the competitors headed west over the brig o’ Waas despite only one quarter of the lochs on offer being in this area.
As the evening wore on the early breeze slowly petered out and the lochs on offer provided excellent sport. Some anglers scored early while others had to wait for the sun to set before seeing any action.
When anglers reconvened for the 2230 weigh it was clear that some very good bags of fish had been taken in what is traditionally a very difficult competition.
Taking first place was the evergreen Bobby Irvine with eleven trout for 6 lb, 6 ¼ oz. from the temperamental Lunga Water. The amazing Irvine had taken six trout in the first half hour of the competition on a “Claret Hedgehog.” This result catapults Bobby to the top of the league.
Second spot went to the resurgent Magnie Reid who had seven trout for 4 lb, 4 ¾ oz. from the mighty Stump. Magnie’s successful fly was that perennial favourite the “Clan Chief.”
In third place was the dangerous Greig Anderson who had six fish from his favourite Mousavord for 3 lb, 7 & ½ oz. Greig’s killing fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other anglers weighing in were Tony Li, Mark Sandison, Peter Laurenson, Frank Watt, Ian Reid, Derek Titheradge, Dave Wright, Kevin Robertson and Billy Reid.
This leaves the league as follows with two league competitions remaining.
Twelve flyfishers checked in at the Bixter graveyard carpark last Thursday evening for round seven of the S.A.A. fly bank league. Competitors were in good spirits, buoyed by the recent success of the S.A.A. team against the D.F.F.A and also with the continued spell of settled weather which shows no sign of abating. The earlier cloud cover had cleared away to leave a beautiful sunny evening – maybe not the best conditions for pursuing the “gentle art.” However with most of the Shetland lochs fishing well this year “Old Jamaica” setting in the West didn’t curb anyone’s enthusiasm.
Derek Titheradge and Dave Wright were quick to castigate Mark Sandison for pulling on a hoody top. Sandison took no notice as he knew he would need the extra layer when the sun dipped below the horizon. Sandison also needed his sunglasses to shield him from the glare of Derek’s brand new set of teeth. Titheradge would have to remember to keep his mouth closed in order not to scare all the fish.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the force of nature that is Leslie Barclay. For once Leslie wasn’t late - or had the wrong date – but had succumbed to an eye injury. Everyone present wished the “big man” a speedy recovery.
Anglers had a choice of 16 lochs in the Wild West. This of course should have worked out at more than one loch per angler. However this ratio seldom pans out as competitors will initially concentrate on the waters that they think will give them the best returns. This was certainly the case tonight as over half the competitors headed west over the brig o’ Waas despite only one quarter of the lochs on offer being in this area.
As the evening wore on the early breeze slowly petered out and the lochs on offer provided excellent sport. Some anglers scored early while others had to wait for the sun to set before seeing any action.
When anglers reconvened for the 2230 weigh it was clear that some very good bags of fish had been taken in what is traditionally a very difficult competition.
Taking first place was the evergreen Bobby Irvine with eleven trout for 6 lb, 6 ¼ oz. from the temperamental Lunga Water. The amazing Irvine had taken six trout in the first half hour of the competition on a “Claret Hedgehog.” This result catapults Bobby to the top of the league.
Second spot went to the resurgent Magnie Reid who had seven trout for 4 lb, 4 ¾ oz. from the mighty Stump. Magnie’s successful fly was that perennial favourite the “Clan Chief.”
In third place was the dangerous Greig Anderson who had six fish from his favourite Mousavord for 3 lb, 7 & ½ oz. Greig’s killing fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other anglers weighing in were Tony Li, Mark Sandison, Peter Laurenson, Frank Watt, Ian Reid, Derek Titheradge, Dave Wright, Kevin Robertson and Billy Reid.
This leaves the league as follows with two league competitions remaining.
Hungry for yet even more trooty excitement fly fishers were in action again two days later on Saturday 20th July to fish for the beautiful Barry Robertson memorial trophy. This was won by a delighted Magnie Reid and Billy Reid. As one wag quipped at the weigh in, “the Reids have it!”
The next fly competition takes place on Saturday 27th July when anglers will have a choice of lochs in the Northmavine area. Check in is at 1020 at Mavis Grind.
The next fly competition takes place on Saturday 27th July when anglers will have a choice of lochs in the Northmavine area. Check in is at 1020 at Mavis Grind.
S.A.A. v D.F.F.A. Inter Club Trophy - 12 & 13 July
A six man team from the Dounreay Fly Fishing Association (D.F.F.A.) travelled up to Shetland from Caithness last weekend to compete against the Shetland Angler's Association bank team for the annual Inter Club trophy.
The D.F.F.A. represented by Capt. Alex Donald, Tony Chalmers, Toby Bracey, Peter Creasey, Neil Clyne and Ian Cannop arrived in Shetland in buoyant mood on the Thursday to give themselves every chance to acclimatise to the Shetland conditions. Those members of the team who were still keen for some angling after travel delays were immediately whisked away by a couple of their hosts for an evening’s fly fishing in one of the last remaining outposts of truly wild brown trout angling in the U.K. They then retired for an early night in order to get the best preparation for the arduous two days competition which lay ahead.
The event would be fished over the Friday and Saturday. A draw was made which paired an S.A.A. angler with a D.F.F.A. angler in an area of Shetland on day one. This would then be mixed up for day two thus ensuring a different partner in a different area.
The forecast for the two days was for calm Northerly winds and overcast skies. These conditions coupled with rising temperatures should be nearly perfect fly fishing conditions. Understandably then everyone was keen to get going on the Friday morning. Once the one man whirlwind that is Leslie Barclay managed to get his finances sorted out and fuel in the car, the 9.00 a.m. start saw the various pairings shoot off to the four corners of Shetland. Barclay’s partner Tony Chalmers knew that he was certainly in for a day’s adventure!
After eight hours of thrashing the Shetland lochs to frenzy it was "lines up" at 1700 hrs. The two teams then reconvened at the Tingwall shed for the first day's weigh in. It was immediately clear that some excellent baskets of trout had been caught with the Shetland lochs continuing to fish as well this year as anyone can remember.
It was the Shetland team who had put their local knowledge to full advantage however weighing in 86 fish for 53 lb, 14 ¼ oz., compared to the D.F.F.A.’s 39 fish for 20 lb, 15 ½ oz. Trout had been taken over the day from a variety of lochs throughout the island.
This gave the S.A.A. a significant half time lead. However Alex Donald was quick to inject some steel and resolve into his team pointing out that this was fly fishing and anything could happen.
As predicted the hapless Barclay had suffered several mishaps and disasters over the course of the day. These included having to flag down a passing motorist to help himself and Chalmers bump start his car which had mysteriously acquired a flat battery while the pair were fishing in Northmavine!
The forecast was spot on and the two teams woke on Saturday morning, refreshed and ready for action, to an almost identical day to Friday. Despite some medical concerns in the visitor’s camp the two teams sallied off for another day's angling which was undoubtedly going to be long and hard. The fitness and stamina of the competitors would now be called into question. How had their physical preparation been for the event? D.F.F.A. captain Alex Donald certainly wasn't found lacking in this department as he made the long sweaty trek into Roer Water and took a couple of duckings for the cause! Special mention must also go to another D.F.F.A member Neil Clyne who, true to form, managed to go over his waders despite his imposing six foot two frame.
When the two teams reconvened for the weigh in it transpired that both teams had again enjoyed some excellent angling. The S.A.A weighed in 57 trout for 37 lb, 7 ½ oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 40 fish for 26 lb, 5 oz. Again, a variety of lochs had produced fish.
This meant that the S.A.A.'s total for the two days was 143 fish for 91 lb, 6 ¾ oz. while the D.F.F.A.'s was 79 fish for 47 lb, 4 ½ oz. A strong all round team performance by the Shetland boys.
Leslie had a relatively uneventful day only managing to lose his team hat and sunglasses, but luckily not his fishing partner Peter Creasey who survived the Barclay experience more or less intact! The only other incident of note concerned the unlucky Alex Donald who managed to lose seven of his eight trout while walking back out over the hill from Roer Water. He did confess that he had been perplexed as to why so many bonxies and gulls had been following him! Alex was awarded a half pound average for his eight trout in respect of the huge effort he had made to catch them.
After a slap up meal at the Shetland Hotel, the two teams retired to the S.A.A. clubrooms for the reception where the presentation of trophies and after dinner entertainment was enthusiastically orchestrated as ever by Mr. S.A.A. himself, the redoubtable Alec Miller.
The much coveted inter club trophy was presented to the S.A.A.'s Captain – a delighted and somewhat overwhelmed Ian Reid – to a rapturous round of applause from the assembled throng. This is the thirteenth year in a row that the S.A.A. team has claimed this trophy and understandably there were big smiles all round from the Shetland boys.
The Viking Shield for the heaviest basket and the beautiful Brian Hunter memorial trophy for the heaviest fish was then presented to a delighted Mark Sandison. Sandison’s smile was all the wider after he discovered that Bobby Irvine and Tony Chalmers had both hooked and lost fish which would undoubtedly have beaten his 2 lb 1 ¾ oz. specimen!
An S.A.A. spokesman thanked Billy Reid and Alec Miller for organizing the event and Bobby Irvine and the Antares for their sponsorship. He saved his biggest thanks for the D.F.F.A. team for travelling North and providing excellent competition and sport in what is the 22nd meeting between the two associations
D.F.F.A. captain Alex Donald then thanked the hosts for their hospitality and looked forward to seeing them in Caithness in 2020.
The formalities now over, and with Ian Reid having recovered from his earlier bashfulness, the frolics, festivities and tall stories continued long into the evening at which point everyone concluded that they had had a very good time indeed.
The next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 18th July with an 1815 check in at the Bixter Graveyard. With places in next year's bank team at a premium this is bound to be a popular competition so anglers are reminded to check in in plenty of time. Take note Leslie Barclay!
This Saturday the 20th of July sees Barry Robertson Memorial trophy take place when anglers are invited to pair up and fish with a friend. Competitors please note that it is a 10.00 check in at either Tingwall or Laxo and a 17.30 weigh in at Tingwall where a draw for the winners will take place.
A six man team from the Dounreay Fly Fishing Association (D.F.F.A.) travelled up to Shetland from Caithness last weekend to compete against the Shetland Angler's Association bank team for the annual Inter Club trophy.
The D.F.F.A. represented by Capt. Alex Donald, Tony Chalmers, Toby Bracey, Peter Creasey, Neil Clyne and Ian Cannop arrived in Shetland in buoyant mood on the Thursday to give themselves every chance to acclimatise to the Shetland conditions. Those members of the team who were still keen for some angling after travel delays were immediately whisked away by a couple of their hosts for an evening’s fly fishing in one of the last remaining outposts of truly wild brown trout angling in the U.K. They then retired for an early night in order to get the best preparation for the arduous two days competition which lay ahead.
The event would be fished over the Friday and Saturday. A draw was made which paired an S.A.A. angler with a D.F.F.A. angler in an area of Shetland on day one. This would then be mixed up for day two thus ensuring a different partner in a different area.
The forecast for the two days was for calm Northerly winds and overcast skies. These conditions coupled with rising temperatures should be nearly perfect fly fishing conditions. Understandably then everyone was keen to get going on the Friday morning. Once the one man whirlwind that is Leslie Barclay managed to get his finances sorted out and fuel in the car, the 9.00 a.m. start saw the various pairings shoot off to the four corners of Shetland. Barclay’s partner Tony Chalmers knew that he was certainly in for a day’s adventure!
After eight hours of thrashing the Shetland lochs to frenzy it was "lines up" at 1700 hrs. The two teams then reconvened at the Tingwall shed for the first day's weigh in. It was immediately clear that some excellent baskets of trout had been caught with the Shetland lochs continuing to fish as well this year as anyone can remember.
It was the Shetland team who had put their local knowledge to full advantage however weighing in 86 fish for 53 lb, 14 ¼ oz., compared to the D.F.F.A.’s 39 fish for 20 lb, 15 ½ oz. Trout had been taken over the day from a variety of lochs throughout the island.
This gave the S.A.A. a significant half time lead. However Alex Donald was quick to inject some steel and resolve into his team pointing out that this was fly fishing and anything could happen.
As predicted the hapless Barclay had suffered several mishaps and disasters over the course of the day. These included having to flag down a passing motorist to help himself and Chalmers bump start his car which had mysteriously acquired a flat battery while the pair were fishing in Northmavine!
The forecast was spot on and the two teams woke on Saturday morning, refreshed and ready for action, to an almost identical day to Friday. Despite some medical concerns in the visitor’s camp the two teams sallied off for another day's angling which was undoubtedly going to be long and hard. The fitness and stamina of the competitors would now be called into question. How had their physical preparation been for the event? D.F.F.A. captain Alex Donald certainly wasn't found lacking in this department as he made the long sweaty trek into Roer Water and took a couple of duckings for the cause! Special mention must also go to another D.F.F.A member Neil Clyne who, true to form, managed to go over his waders despite his imposing six foot two frame.
When the two teams reconvened for the weigh in it transpired that both teams had again enjoyed some excellent angling. The S.A.A weighed in 57 trout for 37 lb, 7 ½ oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 40 fish for 26 lb, 5 oz. Again, a variety of lochs had produced fish.
This meant that the S.A.A.'s total for the two days was 143 fish for 91 lb, 6 ¾ oz. while the D.F.F.A.'s was 79 fish for 47 lb, 4 ½ oz. A strong all round team performance by the Shetland boys.
Leslie had a relatively uneventful day only managing to lose his team hat and sunglasses, but luckily not his fishing partner Peter Creasey who survived the Barclay experience more or less intact! The only other incident of note concerned the unlucky Alex Donald who managed to lose seven of his eight trout while walking back out over the hill from Roer Water. He did confess that he had been perplexed as to why so many bonxies and gulls had been following him! Alex was awarded a half pound average for his eight trout in respect of the huge effort he had made to catch them.
After a slap up meal at the Shetland Hotel, the two teams retired to the S.A.A. clubrooms for the reception where the presentation of trophies and after dinner entertainment was enthusiastically orchestrated as ever by Mr. S.A.A. himself, the redoubtable Alec Miller.
The much coveted inter club trophy was presented to the S.A.A.'s Captain – a delighted and somewhat overwhelmed Ian Reid – to a rapturous round of applause from the assembled throng. This is the thirteenth year in a row that the S.A.A. team has claimed this trophy and understandably there were big smiles all round from the Shetland boys.
The Viking Shield for the heaviest basket and the beautiful Brian Hunter memorial trophy for the heaviest fish was then presented to a delighted Mark Sandison. Sandison’s smile was all the wider after he discovered that Bobby Irvine and Tony Chalmers had both hooked and lost fish which would undoubtedly have beaten his 2 lb 1 ¾ oz. specimen!
An S.A.A. spokesman thanked Billy Reid and Alec Miller for organizing the event and Bobby Irvine and the Antares for their sponsorship. He saved his biggest thanks for the D.F.F.A. team for travelling North and providing excellent competition and sport in what is the 22nd meeting between the two associations
D.F.F.A. captain Alex Donald then thanked the hosts for their hospitality and looked forward to seeing them in Caithness in 2020.
The formalities now over, and with Ian Reid having recovered from his earlier bashfulness, the frolics, festivities and tall stories continued long into the evening at which point everyone concluded that they had had a very good time indeed.
The next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 18th July with an 1815 check in at the Bixter Graveyard. With places in next year's bank team at a premium this is bound to be a popular competition so anglers are reminded to check in in plenty of time. Take note Leslie Barclay!
This Saturday the 20th of July sees Barry Robertson Memorial trophy take place when anglers are invited to pair up and fish with a friend. Competitors please note that it is a 10.00 check in at either Tingwall or Laxo and a 17.30 weigh in at Tingwall where a draw for the winners will take place.
"D & D Doubles" 6-7-19
Last Saturday morning Shetlands elite Anglers gathered at the Tingwall boat shed to fish for the prestigious D&D doubles trophy held for the last 2 years by reigning champions Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay, where the top and bottom 6 seeds were drawn out of a hat. This provided some tasty looking partnerships including the(on fire!) Mark Sandison and Dave "crafty cockney" Wright and top of there game the Dominant duo Frank Watt and Ian Reid also looked a formidable partnership that could do damage! the wind was 20 knots N Westerly overcast and warm. and every team had the freedom of any Loch in Shetland to fish, everybody was champing at the bit to wrestle the trophy from the reigning champions the very circumspect Irvine and Barclay .. Before they knew it the starting gun went off and 5 cars carrying the teams sped off to every corner of Shetland ,, Trailing right behind Irvine and Barclay to the West side were Sandison and Wright who had a masterplan to gazump the champs so when both cars reached the mighty Vaara in the Clousta road, Sandison gleefully saw that the rumours were true "both" Bobby and Leslie were carrying knee injurys! as the 2 indomitable Anglers limped together to the side of the Loch one with sore right and one with sore left knee, Bobby joked if we tied both bad knees together we,d mak a good 3 legged race team! soon you could see Sandison running over the the peaty brows to the top fishing spot on the loch,, Barclay saw Sandison put 4 fish in his bag before he got fishing, if they didn't know they were in for a challenge they certainly did now!! 8 hours later and after a lot of zig zagging from loch to loch the 5 teams gathered at the Tingwall boat shed a lot of the teams lamented the conditions with a few raised eyebrows and keeping quiet, You could cut the tension with a knife! as competition secretary Billy Reid set up the scales, An excited Sandison and Wright could be seen patting each other on there backs with one more fish in there basket than the reigning champions they were confident of a win,! the weigh in took longer than usual with Reid ticking of some of the main challengers for pouring there fish out of a pail of water into the weigh in net several minutes went by so all the water dripped out,, such is the "cut throat" win at all cost some people do in competition Angling in Shetland,, in 3rd place was Billy Reid and Derek Titherage who had 13 fish for 8lb 9oz from Tingwall and Girlsta which included the heaviest fish at 1lb 8oz, in 2nd place after a momentous time checking and rechecking a subdued Sandison read out that it was Dave Wright and Mark himself, the unlucky duo amassed a huge basket of 23 trout for 12lb 5oz, Marks top fly was a faun hedgehog, while Wright had success on a cc(crafty cockney) snatcher,,,, So the winners for an unprecedented 3rd year in a row was Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay with a basket of 22 fish for 12lb 9oz When it was announced both Bobby and(the down in the dumps thinking they had lost!) Leslie leaped from there seats punching the air with joy to applause from there fellow competitors(some through tearful eyes)Bobbys top fly was a olive sedgehog, while leslies top fly was of his own stingy bee half hog variant,,other successful anglers were Frank Watt,Ian Reid,and Magnie Reid , Even carrying injurys these to battle hardened fishing machines came ups trumps again in what was an amazing feat ,, this weekend the S,A,A v D,F,F,A associations is on , report next week,, followed by the Barry Roberson memorial trophy GWYP sat 20th july 10 oclock till 17.30 tingwall boatshed.... (L.B.)
Last Saturday morning Shetlands elite Anglers gathered at the Tingwall boat shed to fish for the prestigious D&D doubles trophy held for the last 2 years by reigning champions Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay, where the top and bottom 6 seeds were drawn out of a hat. This provided some tasty looking partnerships including the(on fire!) Mark Sandison and Dave "crafty cockney" Wright and top of there game the Dominant duo Frank Watt and Ian Reid also looked a formidable partnership that could do damage! the wind was 20 knots N Westerly overcast and warm. and every team had the freedom of any Loch in Shetland to fish, everybody was champing at the bit to wrestle the trophy from the reigning champions the very circumspect Irvine and Barclay .. Before they knew it the starting gun went off and 5 cars carrying the teams sped off to every corner of Shetland ,, Trailing right behind Irvine and Barclay to the West side were Sandison and Wright who had a masterplan to gazump the champs so when both cars reached the mighty Vaara in the Clousta road, Sandison gleefully saw that the rumours were true "both" Bobby and Leslie were carrying knee injurys! as the 2 indomitable Anglers limped together to the side of the Loch one with sore right and one with sore left knee, Bobby joked if we tied both bad knees together we,d mak a good 3 legged race team! soon you could see Sandison running over the the peaty brows to the top fishing spot on the loch,, Barclay saw Sandison put 4 fish in his bag before he got fishing, if they didn't know they were in for a challenge they certainly did now!! 8 hours later and after a lot of zig zagging from loch to loch the 5 teams gathered at the Tingwall boat shed a lot of the teams lamented the conditions with a few raised eyebrows and keeping quiet, You could cut the tension with a knife! as competition secretary Billy Reid set up the scales, An excited Sandison and Wright could be seen patting each other on there backs with one more fish in there basket than the reigning champions they were confident of a win,! the weigh in took longer than usual with Reid ticking of some of the main challengers for pouring there fish out of a pail of water into the weigh in net several minutes went by so all the water dripped out,, such is the "cut throat" win at all cost some people do in competition Angling in Shetland,, in 3rd place was Billy Reid and Derek Titherage who had 13 fish for 8lb 9oz from Tingwall and Girlsta which included the heaviest fish at 1lb 8oz, in 2nd place after a momentous time checking and rechecking a subdued Sandison read out that it was Dave Wright and Mark himself, the unlucky duo amassed a huge basket of 23 trout for 12lb 5oz, Marks top fly was a faun hedgehog, while Wright had success on a cc(crafty cockney) snatcher,,,, So the winners for an unprecedented 3rd year in a row was Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay with a basket of 22 fish for 12lb 9oz When it was announced both Bobby and(the down in the dumps thinking they had lost!) Leslie leaped from there seats punching the air with joy to applause from there fellow competitors(some through tearful eyes)Bobbys top fly was a olive sedgehog, while leslies top fly was of his own stingy bee half hog variant,,other successful anglers were Frank Watt,Ian Reid,and Magnie Reid , Even carrying injurys these to battle hardened fishing machines came ups trumps again in what was an amazing feat ,, this weekend the S,A,A v D,F,F,A associations is on , report next week,, followed by the Barry Roberson memorial trophy GWYP sat 20th july 10 oclock till 17.30 tingwall boatshed.... (L.B.)
Ronas Hill 29-6-19
at 9 oclock Last Saturday morning 10 of Shetlands toughest fly fishers gathered at the Collafirth pier to take part in the SAAs equivalent of an iron man contest 11 hours in the Lochs behind Ronas hill competitors need to be in top physical condition mentally resilient and have excellent navigational skills.! Several books could be written concerning the adventures and mishaps of anglers who have ventured into one of the last true wilderness areas in Shetland(if not the world) the wind was southerly 5 knots warm with overcast Skys a perfect day for the troots,,5 minutes from the starting gun competition secretary Billy Reid received a txt from the intrepid Leslie Barclay saying he would be 10 minutes late arriving, it later transpired he;d forgotten to make his egg sandwiches the night before, ! Competitors were soon shooting of to access the "back of the hill" by the Uyea track to the north or the more traditional Roer Water track to the south, virtually as soon as the competition started the low cloud and mist rolled in over the Hills,,Any not carrying a compass could get lost quickly, without carrying a compass the late Barclay turned a 30 minute walk to his first secret destination a 2 hour hike until the mist lifted and he got his bearings, 11 hours later at the weigh in 8 weather beaten weary Anglers gathered at the Collafirth pier for the weigh in with tales of walking lost in the mist Trowie asperations and friendly frogs spotted on the hills along with relief at getting out unscathed , it was found out later the 2 no shows Micheal Williamson and Willie Lowrie were told to be home by 6 or there dinners would be in the bin, it turned out to be a huge weigh in with 140 fish caught on the day in 3rd place was the trout catching machine that's is Frank Watt who has really upped his game this year with 27 fish for 13lb 2 oz in 2nd place was the incredible Bobby Irvine who not only has won this competition more times than any other person it incredibilly is the 10th time hes been runner up an incredible feat by an incredible Angler,,but taking first place and the coveted Ronas hill shield was SAA Legend Mark Sandison who after surgery last year to save his fishing career, is bang on the top of his game this season Sandison had a bag of trouts a factory trawler would have been proud of 31 fish for 19lb 8oz which included the biggest fish of the day at 1lb 12oz Mark challenged Barclay for the most miles walked on the day which paid of for him as he didn't get lost!!
a happy Sandison posed for his winner photo, afterwards everybody present agreed they were all winners for having fished this beautiful landscape again, the competitions are coming thick and fast now with the D & D doubles on the 6/7/19 where Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay will be looking to retain the trophy for an unpresidented 3rd year in a row ,,with the following weekend the Dounray anglers are up to take on the SAA team , (L.B.)
at 9 oclock Last Saturday morning 10 of Shetlands toughest fly fishers gathered at the Collafirth pier to take part in the SAAs equivalent of an iron man contest 11 hours in the Lochs behind Ronas hill competitors need to be in top physical condition mentally resilient and have excellent navigational skills.! Several books could be written concerning the adventures and mishaps of anglers who have ventured into one of the last true wilderness areas in Shetland(if not the world) the wind was southerly 5 knots warm with overcast Skys a perfect day for the troots,,5 minutes from the starting gun competition secretary Billy Reid received a txt from the intrepid Leslie Barclay saying he would be 10 minutes late arriving, it later transpired he;d forgotten to make his egg sandwiches the night before, ! Competitors were soon shooting of to access the "back of the hill" by the Uyea track to the north or the more traditional Roer Water track to the south, virtually as soon as the competition started the low cloud and mist rolled in over the Hills,,Any not carrying a compass could get lost quickly, without carrying a compass the late Barclay turned a 30 minute walk to his first secret destination a 2 hour hike until the mist lifted and he got his bearings, 11 hours later at the weigh in 8 weather beaten weary Anglers gathered at the Collafirth pier for the weigh in with tales of walking lost in the mist Trowie asperations and friendly frogs spotted on the hills along with relief at getting out unscathed , it was found out later the 2 no shows Micheal Williamson and Willie Lowrie were told to be home by 6 or there dinners would be in the bin, it turned out to be a huge weigh in with 140 fish caught on the day in 3rd place was the trout catching machine that's is Frank Watt who has really upped his game this year with 27 fish for 13lb 2 oz in 2nd place was the incredible Bobby Irvine who not only has won this competition more times than any other person it incredibilly is the 10th time hes been runner up an incredible feat by an incredible Angler,,but taking first place and the coveted Ronas hill shield was SAA Legend Mark Sandison who after surgery last year to save his fishing career, is bang on the top of his game this season Sandison had a bag of trouts a factory trawler would have been proud of 31 fish for 19lb 8oz which included the biggest fish of the day at 1lb 12oz Mark challenged Barclay for the most miles walked on the day which paid of for him as he didn't get lost!!
a happy Sandison posed for his winner photo, afterwards everybody present agreed they were all winners for having fished this beautiful landscape again, the competitions are coming thick and fast now with the D & D doubles on the 6/7/19 where Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay will be looking to retain the trophy for an unpresidented 3rd year in a row ,,with the following weekend the Dounray anglers are up to take on the SAA team , (L.B.)
North Mainland 27-6-19
Fifteen flyfishers checked in at Mavis Grind last Thursday evening for round six of the S.A.A. Fly bank League.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the indomitable Leslie Barclay. Mark Sandison had received a text from the big man however stating that he was “running late” and would make an appearance later in the evening and pay his entry fee at the weigh in. Everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief.
It was good to see the legendary Michael Williamson making his first appearance at a fly bank competition this season. Fortunately this year Williamson had turned up on the correct Thursday.
It was a seemingly perfect evening for practising the “gentle art” with a Westerly Breeze and overcast skies. Competitors had a choice of all the major lochs in the North Mainland so there was no room for complaint.
The 6.15 kick off saw all anglers heading North into deepest, darkest Northmavine. Most of the initial efforts were concentrated on the mighty Eela Water and Punds Water. Angling in Northmavine is seldom easy but with the ideal conditions most anglers picked up fish throughout the evening.
Everyone was left in no doubt that Leslie Barclay had finally rocked up as his running commentary could be heard all over the loch on such a still and mild Shetland midsummer night!
As competitors reconvened for the 10.30 weigh it was clear that only a few ounces would separate many of the baskets.
Way ahead in first place - and back on top form - was Bobby Irvine with an excellent ten trout for 5 lb, 2 & ½ oz. Bobby had divided his time between Eela Water and Punds Water and scored with a “Claret Dabbler.”
Second spot went to the intrepid Ian Reid who had made the bold move to hike into the Mangaster Hills where he fished the often overlooked and legendary Brei Water of Nibon. Ian’s basket contained five fish weighing 3 lb exactly most of which fell to a “Kate McLaren Muddler.”
In third place was Mark Sandison who had stuck it out in Eela Water for five fish weighing 2 lb, 13 & ¾ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other anglers gaining valuable league points were Frank Watt, Magnus Reid, Billy Reid, Greig Anderson, Michael Williamson, Peter Laurenson, Dave Wright, Leslie Barclay, Tony Li and Robert Scougall.
A “busy” weigh in was impeccably marshalled as ever by competition secretary Billy Reid. The only incident of note was when official “recorder” Mark Sandison almost managed to award Ian Reid’s second place basket to his dad Magnie! Luckily for all concerned Sandison’s error was quickly spotted and rectified, and any potential fisticuffs between the Reid’s was averted.
Once Barclay’s entry fee was paid everyone could head home happy.
With two thirds of this year’s competitions now having been fished the league is as follows:
Fifteen flyfishers checked in at Mavis Grind last Thursday evening for round six of the S.A.A. Fly bank League.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the indomitable Leslie Barclay. Mark Sandison had received a text from the big man however stating that he was “running late” and would make an appearance later in the evening and pay his entry fee at the weigh in. Everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief.
It was good to see the legendary Michael Williamson making his first appearance at a fly bank competition this season. Fortunately this year Williamson had turned up on the correct Thursday.
It was a seemingly perfect evening for practising the “gentle art” with a Westerly Breeze and overcast skies. Competitors had a choice of all the major lochs in the North Mainland so there was no room for complaint.
The 6.15 kick off saw all anglers heading North into deepest, darkest Northmavine. Most of the initial efforts were concentrated on the mighty Eela Water and Punds Water. Angling in Northmavine is seldom easy but with the ideal conditions most anglers picked up fish throughout the evening.
Everyone was left in no doubt that Leslie Barclay had finally rocked up as his running commentary could be heard all over the loch on such a still and mild Shetland midsummer night!
As competitors reconvened for the 10.30 weigh it was clear that only a few ounces would separate many of the baskets.
Way ahead in first place - and back on top form - was Bobby Irvine with an excellent ten trout for 5 lb, 2 & ½ oz. Bobby had divided his time between Eela Water and Punds Water and scored with a “Claret Dabbler.”
Second spot went to the intrepid Ian Reid who had made the bold move to hike into the Mangaster Hills where he fished the often overlooked and legendary Brei Water of Nibon. Ian’s basket contained five fish weighing 3 lb exactly most of which fell to a “Kate McLaren Muddler.”
In third place was Mark Sandison who had stuck it out in Eela Water for five fish weighing 2 lb, 13 & ¾ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other anglers gaining valuable league points were Frank Watt, Magnus Reid, Billy Reid, Greig Anderson, Michael Williamson, Peter Laurenson, Dave Wright, Leslie Barclay, Tony Li and Robert Scougall.
A “busy” weigh in was impeccably marshalled as ever by competition secretary Billy Reid. The only incident of note was when official “recorder” Mark Sandison almost managed to award Ian Reid’s second place basket to his dad Magnie! Luckily for all concerned Sandison’s error was quickly spotted and rectified, and any potential fisticuffs between the Reid’s was averted.
Once Barclay’s entry fee was paid everyone could head home happy.
With two thirds of this year’s competitions now having been fished the league is as follows:
This promises an exciting run in, both for the championship itself and the top six places who will represent the S.A.A. in Caithness next year.
The Fly Bank League takes a break now for a few weeks. During this time the S.A.A. team will host the Dounreay Fly Fishing Association for the annual inter county match between the two associations. We wish our bank league team all the very best of luck.
The next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 18th July with an 1815 check in at the Bixter Graveyard Carpark. Competitors are also reminded that the ever popular “D & D Doubles” trophy will be fished for on Saturday 6th July. Check in is at 1020 at the Tingwall shed.
The Fly Bank League takes a break now for a few weeks. During this time the S.A.A. team will host the Dounreay Fly Fishing Association for the annual inter county match between the two associations. We wish our bank league team all the very best of luck.
The next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 18th July with an 1815 check in at the Bixter Graveyard Carpark. Competitors are also reminded that the ever popular “D & D Doubles” trophy will be fished for on Saturday 6th July. Check in is at 1020 at the Tingwall shed.
Tulloch Midsummer Shield 15-6-19
Thirteen of Shetland’s top flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall boat Shed last Saturday morning for round five of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. As well as fishing for valuable league points, anglers would also be fishing for the Tulloch Midsummer Shield – one of the big prizes in the S.A.A. trophy cabinet.
This event marks the halfway point of the league campaign. It is a unique league competition in that rather than competitors fishing a specific area, eighteen of Shetland’s premier waters were on offer. More than ever therefore, making the correct choice of venue would be key to success. This was particularly so this year with so many of the Shetland lochs fishing well.
There wasn’t the usual banter and mind games regarding each other’s plans for the day at the check in. It appeared that most competitors had already made up their minds about their preferred location and tactics. The only issue of note was big Kevin Robertson’s suggestion that competition secretary Billy Reid was bending competition rules in his own favour. Robertson was quickly put in his place however and told that if he had an issue with competition rules and regulations he should take it up with the committee!
The 1020 kick off saw anglers shoot off to the five corners of Shetland. Over the course of the day most of the eighteen lochs on offer would receive some attention. To be fair however Greig Anderson did a good job of covering most of them himself.
Leslie Barclay who is back in top form was extremely fortunate to escape disqualification when he set out for Griesta. Luckily For Leslie, Billy Reid spied him heading up the Griesta road. The quick thinking Reid got on the phone to warn Barclay that Griesta wasn’t on the competition sheet and disaster was averted. A close call for Barclay but he won’t be the first (or indeed the last!) competition angler to fall foul of the intricacies of the competition sheet.
All to soon an enjoyable day’s angling was over and competitors reconvened at the Tingwall shed.
Taking first place and the Tulloch Shield was Frank Watt with a fantastic basket of eleven fish from the Deep South going 12 lb, 9 & ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Olive Dabbler.” A great average! Frank can do no wrong at the moment and is fresh back from the boat intercounty in Orkney where he was one of Shetland’s top rods.
Runner up was Billy Reid with another great bag of 18 trout for 10 lb, 7 & ½ oz. Billy had scored with a Claret Hedgehog in Tingwall. Although this result catapults Billy to the top of the league he has every right to feel hard done by as on most other days his basket would have taken first place at a canter. Not only that but Peter Laurenson weighed in a specimen of 2lb, 10 ½ oz. This trout was half an ounce heavier than this season’s current heaviest fish which was weighed in by Reid in round three. Competitive angling can be a cruel sport!
Third place went to Bobby Irvine who had thirteen fish from the Wild West for 7 lb, 13 & ¾ oz. Bobby’s top fly was a “Kingfisher Butcher Muddler.”
Other anglers among the points were Mark Sandison, Magnus Reid, Peter Laurenson. Harry Sandison, Kevin Robertson, Tony Li, Greig Anderson and Leslie Barclay.
This leaves the league as follows:
Thirteen of Shetland’s top flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall boat Shed last Saturday morning for round five of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. As well as fishing for valuable league points, anglers would also be fishing for the Tulloch Midsummer Shield – one of the big prizes in the S.A.A. trophy cabinet.
This event marks the halfway point of the league campaign. It is a unique league competition in that rather than competitors fishing a specific area, eighteen of Shetland’s premier waters were on offer. More than ever therefore, making the correct choice of venue would be key to success. This was particularly so this year with so many of the Shetland lochs fishing well.
There wasn’t the usual banter and mind games regarding each other’s plans for the day at the check in. It appeared that most competitors had already made up their minds about their preferred location and tactics. The only issue of note was big Kevin Robertson’s suggestion that competition secretary Billy Reid was bending competition rules in his own favour. Robertson was quickly put in his place however and told that if he had an issue with competition rules and regulations he should take it up with the committee!
The 1020 kick off saw anglers shoot off to the five corners of Shetland. Over the course of the day most of the eighteen lochs on offer would receive some attention. To be fair however Greig Anderson did a good job of covering most of them himself.
Leslie Barclay who is back in top form was extremely fortunate to escape disqualification when he set out for Griesta. Luckily For Leslie, Billy Reid spied him heading up the Griesta road. The quick thinking Reid got on the phone to warn Barclay that Griesta wasn’t on the competition sheet and disaster was averted. A close call for Barclay but he won’t be the first (or indeed the last!) competition angler to fall foul of the intricacies of the competition sheet.
All to soon an enjoyable day’s angling was over and competitors reconvened at the Tingwall shed.
Taking first place and the Tulloch Shield was Frank Watt with a fantastic basket of eleven fish from the Deep South going 12 lb, 9 & ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Olive Dabbler.” A great average! Frank can do no wrong at the moment and is fresh back from the boat intercounty in Orkney where he was one of Shetland’s top rods.
Runner up was Billy Reid with another great bag of 18 trout for 10 lb, 7 & ½ oz. Billy had scored with a Claret Hedgehog in Tingwall. Although this result catapults Billy to the top of the league he has every right to feel hard done by as on most other days his basket would have taken first place at a canter. Not only that but Peter Laurenson weighed in a specimen of 2lb, 10 ½ oz. This trout was half an ounce heavier than this season’s current heaviest fish which was weighed in by Reid in round three. Competitive angling can be a cruel sport!
Third place went to Bobby Irvine who had thirteen fish from the Wild West for 7 lb, 13 & ¾ oz. Bobby’s top fly was a “Kingfisher Butcher Muddler.”
Other anglers among the points were Mark Sandison, Magnus Reid, Peter Laurenson. Harry Sandison, Kevin Robertson, Tony Li, Greig Anderson and Leslie Barclay.
This leaves the league as follows:
The next league competition takes place on Thursday 27th June with an 1815 check in at Mavis Grind. This is followed on Saturday 29th June with the annual Ronas Hill competition. Check in is at the Collafirth pier at 09.00 and anglers are reminded to pack their maps and compasses. Take note Leslie!
Clousta Road 6-6-19
A dozen flyfishers rocked up at the Bixter Hall last Thursday evening for round four of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League.
It was great to see Whalsay man Kevin Robertson back in his waders and ready for action. Also in attendance was Dale Williamson who has obviously been bitten by the competition bug again and was keen to prove that last week’s performance was no flash in the pan! However Williamson’s mentor and coach Mrs. Annie Williamson was forced to stop on her way home to Walls to give Dale a pep talk where she suggested he calm right down and try to stay focussed.
As anglers were donning their waders Ian Reid was quick to spot Mark Sandison’s lucky multi coloured socks knitted for him by Mrs Sandison. Dale Williamson Suggested that some of the sock’s colours would work well in his flies and Ian took a photo of them for his next exhibition. However Reid and Williamson were both obviously extremely jealous of Sandison’s hosiery and were left wondering how such quality knitwear wasn’t being produced on their own home fronts! Sandison’s socks would certainly be worth their weight in gold as the evening progressed!
Competitors had a wide range of lochs to choose from in the Clousta and Twatt roads. On paper at least this area should be one of the main jewels in the crown of Shetland flyfishing. It is often the case however that what is “on paper” is at great odds with reality. Angling of course is no exception. Competitors were under no illusion that despite its reputation this area can be as difficult as any other.
Also “on paper” it was a seemingly perfect evening for fly fishing with a gentle Northerly breeze and overcast skies.
All of the above factors combined to inject even more excitement than usual into the already charged up anglers at the 1815 flag. This was evident in the revving of engines and the Grand Prix start on the A971 that hasn’t been witnessed for a few years now. Worst offenders were Dave Wright, who received an official caution for setting off in front of Competition Secretary Billy Reid, and also Dale Williamson whose enthusiasm spilled over as he attempted to steal a couple of places on the starting grid. Williamson’s ploy back fired as he was forced onto the hard shoulder – and the back of the queue.
Top marks to Comeback Kid Leslie Barclay who managed to suppress his usual exuberance and stay at the back of the line.
Once everyone had settled down and found a swim, most of the early efforts were concentrated on the big three waters of Vaara, CLousta and Clings Water. Kirkhouse and Northouse would also receive some attention over the course of the evening. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success.
As the evening wore on the Northerly breeze backed North Westerly and brought with it a steady drizzle. Competitors were forced to alter their tactics accordingly with some anglers managing to fish spots which would have been impossible earlier in the evening.
As fly fishers reconvened at 1030 for a decidedly soggy weigh in, it was clear that there had been some good sport.
Taking first place was Billy Reid with a superb eleven trout from Clousta for 7 lb, 4 & ¼ oz. Billy’s bag also contained the heaviest fish of the evening, for the second week running!, at 1 lb, 5 & ¼ oz which fell to a “Peach Hedgehog.”
Runner up - with a great deal of help from his lucky socks! - was Mark Sandison with nine fish for 5 lb 10 oz. In third spot was Bobby Irvine with ten for 5 lb, 4 & ¼ oz. Both anglers had scored with a “Peach Muddler” in Vaara.
Other anglers among the points were Kevin Robertson, Ian Reid, Leslie Barclay, Dale Williamson, Magnie Reid and Frank Watt.
With four competitions having been fished this leaves the league as follows:
A dozen flyfishers rocked up at the Bixter Hall last Thursday evening for round four of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League.
It was great to see Whalsay man Kevin Robertson back in his waders and ready for action. Also in attendance was Dale Williamson who has obviously been bitten by the competition bug again and was keen to prove that last week’s performance was no flash in the pan! However Williamson’s mentor and coach Mrs. Annie Williamson was forced to stop on her way home to Walls to give Dale a pep talk where she suggested he calm right down and try to stay focussed.
As anglers were donning their waders Ian Reid was quick to spot Mark Sandison’s lucky multi coloured socks knitted for him by Mrs Sandison. Dale Williamson Suggested that some of the sock’s colours would work well in his flies and Ian took a photo of them for his next exhibition. However Reid and Williamson were both obviously extremely jealous of Sandison’s hosiery and were left wondering how such quality knitwear wasn’t being produced on their own home fronts! Sandison’s socks would certainly be worth their weight in gold as the evening progressed!
Competitors had a wide range of lochs to choose from in the Clousta and Twatt roads. On paper at least this area should be one of the main jewels in the crown of Shetland flyfishing. It is often the case however that what is “on paper” is at great odds with reality. Angling of course is no exception. Competitors were under no illusion that despite its reputation this area can be as difficult as any other.
Also “on paper” it was a seemingly perfect evening for fly fishing with a gentle Northerly breeze and overcast skies.
All of the above factors combined to inject even more excitement than usual into the already charged up anglers at the 1815 flag. This was evident in the revving of engines and the Grand Prix start on the A971 that hasn’t been witnessed for a few years now. Worst offenders were Dave Wright, who received an official caution for setting off in front of Competition Secretary Billy Reid, and also Dale Williamson whose enthusiasm spilled over as he attempted to steal a couple of places on the starting grid. Williamson’s ploy back fired as he was forced onto the hard shoulder – and the back of the queue.
Top marks to Comeback Kid Leslie Barclay who managed to suppress his usual exuberance and stay at the back of the line.
Once everyone had settled down and found a swim, most of the early efforts were concentrated on the big three waters of Vaara, CLousta and Clings Water. Kirkhouse and Northouse would also receive some attention over the course of the evening. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success.
As the evening wore on the Northerly breeze backed North Westerly and brought with it a steady drizzle. Competitors were forced to alter their tactics accordingly with some anglers managing to fish spots which would have been impossible earlier in the evening.
As fly fishers reconvened at 1030 for a decidedly soggy weigh in, it was clear that there had been some good sport.
Taking first place was Billy Reid with a superb eleven trout from Clousta for 7 lb, 4 & ¼ oz. Billy’s bag also contained the heaviest fish of the evening, for the second week running!, at 1 lb, 5 & ¼ oz which fell to a “Peach Hedgehog.”
Runner up - with a great deal of help from his lucky socks! - was Mark Sandison with nine fish for 5 lb 10 oz. In third spot was Bobby Irvine with ten for 5 lb, 4 & ¼ oz. Both anglers had scored with a “Peach Muddler” in Vaara.
Other anglers among the points were Kevin Robertson, Ian Reid, Leslie Barclay, Dale Williamson, Magnie Reid and Frank Watt.
With four competitions having been fished this leaves the league as follows:
With the drizzle turning heavy there was no hanging around. Ian Reid and Dale Williamson just had time to exchange a couple of Fair Isle patterns before scurrying for their vehicles and home for some knitting lessons.
Competitions are coming thick and fast now. Round five of the league takes place on Saturday 15th June when the much sought after “Tulloch Midsummer Shield” will be up for grabs. Check in is 1020 at the Tingwall Shed.
Competitions are coming thick and fast now. Round five of the league takes place on Saturday 15th June when the much sought after “Tulloch Midsummer Shield” will be up for grabs. Check in is 1020 at the Tingwall Shed.
West Side 30-5-19
Last Thursday saw round three of the S.A.A. bank league take place on the West side lochs. A few surprises were in store for flyfishers as they gathered at the Bixter Graveyard car park for the first evening kick off of the season.
Undoubtedly the biggest talking point at the check in was the return to competition angling of the self styled “West Side Legend” that is Dale Williamson. “Toonie” by day, “Waas Man” by night, Williamson was on home turf and a favourite to do well in this notoriously difficult competition.
Almost raining on Williamson’s parade was the indomitable Leslie Barclay who was making his return after a life threatening injury had almost put paid to any fishing this season. Barclay is made of tough stuff however and everyone agreed that it was great to see him back in his leaky waders and ready for action. Leslies’s comeback was almost over before it began though as he failed to consult the “Green Cross Code” before ambling across the chaotic AD71 to check out Ian Reid’s flies.
It was also good to see “Young Guns” Robert Scougall - back for his first competition of the season - and Stu Adams who was checking in for his first bank league competition ever! Big things are being predicted for these two progressive young fly fishers. Well done to Frank Watt for providing transport and promoting the S.A.A. green car sharing policy.
With the temperatures rising after a chilly week combined with a gentle Westerly breeze competitors had no room for complaint. Flyfishers also had a choice of sixteen waters in the “Wild West” of Shetland. Theoretically this should mean that everyone had a loch to themselves for the evening.
The 6.15 start saw anglers spread themselves out fairly evenly over the West side. As the evening progressed the Westerly breeze died away and anglers were forced to alter their tactics accordingly.
As everyone reconvened for the 10.30 weigh in it was clear that the number of fish caught in this competition was up on previous years.
As ever, everyone had a story to tell about their evening’s adventures. However no one could compete with “Comeback Kid” Leslie Barclay’s feat of hiking anti clockwise round the mighty Sulma Water. A firm statement, if indeed one were needed, that the “Barclaynator” is back!
Taking first place was a delighted Mark Sandison with eight trout in his bag for 5 lb, 6 ½ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a “Claret Half Hog.”
Second spot went to Billy Reid who weighed in four fish for 4 lb, 3 ½ oz. Billy’s basket contained an absolute beauty going 2 lb, 10 oz. which, needless to say, fell to a “Hedgehog.”
In third place was Greig Anderson with eight fish for 3 lb, 14 oz. Greig had to make a quick getaway to catch the 11 p.m. ferry into Whalsay before he could be pinned down to name his killing fly. However “Back with a Bang” Barclay pointed out that it had to be a “Hammel’s Spider!”
Other successful anglers were Peter Laurenson, Bobby Irvine, Ian Reid, Dale Williamson, Leslie Barclay, Frank Watt, Magnie Reid, Alastair Jamieson and Dave Wright.
Everyone at the weigh in was unanimous in endorsing competition secretary Billy Reid’s decision to put the date of this competition back to the end of May. As one commentator noted, not only were the trout more cooperative, but the two weeks difference meant that competitors could enjoy some craq and banter on a balmy Shetland Summer evening rather than rushing home to try and coax some life back into frostbitten digits.
With a third of this year’s bank competitions now having been fished, this leaves the league as follows:
Last Thursday saw round three of the S.A.A. bank league take place on the West side lochs. A few surprises were in store for flyfishers as they gathered at the Bixter Graveyard car park for the first evening kick off of the season.
Undoubtedly the biggest talking point at the check in was the return to competition angling of the self styled “West Side Legend” that is Dale Williamson. “Toonie” by day, “Waas Man” by night, Williamson was on home turf and a favourite to do well in this notoriously difficult competition.
Almost raining on Williamson’s parade was the indomitable Leslie Barclay who was making his return after a life threatening injury had almost put paid to any fishing this season. Barclay is made of tough stuff however and everyone agreed that it was great to see him back in his leaky waders and ready for action. Leslies’s comeback was almost over before it began though as he failed to consult the “Green Cross Code” before ambling across the chaotic AD71 to check out Ian Reid’s flies.
It was also good to see “Young Guns” Robert Scougall - back for his first competition of the season - and Stu Adams who was checking in for his first bank league competition ever! Big things are being predicted for these two progressive young fly fishers. Well done to Frank Watt for providing transport and promoting the S.A.A. green car sharing policy.
With the temperatures rising after a chilly week combined with a gentle Westerly breeze competitors had no room for complaint. Flyfishers also had a choice of sixteen waters in the “Wild West” of Shetland. Theoretically this should mean that everyone had a loch to themselves for the evening.
The 6.15 start saw anglers spread themselves out fairly evenly over the West side. As the evening progressed the Westerly breeze died away and anglers were forced to alter their tactics accordingly.
As everyone reconvened for the 10.30 weigh in it was clear that the number of fish caught in this competition was up on previous years.
As ever, everyone had a story to tell about their evening’s adventures. However no one could compete with “Comeback Kid” Leslie Barclay’s feat of hiking anti clockwise round the mighty Sulma Water. A firm statement, if indeed one were needed, that the “Barclaynator” is back!
Taking first place was a delighted Mark Sandison with eight trout in his bag for 5 lb, 6 ½ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a “Claret Half Hog.”
Second spot went to Billy Reid who weighed in four fish for 4 lb, 3 ½ oz. Billy’s basket contained an absolute beauty going 2 lb, 10 oz. which, needless to say, fell to a “Hedgehog.”
In third place was Greig Anderson with eight fish for 3 lb, 14 oz. Greig had to make a quick getaway to catch the 11 p.m. ferry into Whalsay before he could be pinned down to name his killing fly. However “Back with a Bang” Barclay pointed out that it had to be a “Hammel’s Spider!”
Other successful anglers were Peter Laurenson, Bobby Irvine, Ian Reid, Dale Williamson, Leslie Barclay, Frank Watt, Magnie Reid, Alastair Jamieson and Dave Wright.
Everyone at the weigh in was unanimous in endorsing competition secretary Billy Reid’s decision to put the date of this competition back to the end of May. As one commentator noted, not only were the trout more cooperative, but the two weeks difference meant that competitors could enjoy some craq and banter on a balmy Shetland Summer evening rather than rushing home to try and coax some life back into frostbitten digits.
With a third of this year’s bank competitions now having been fished, this leaves the league as follows:
The Pottinger Benston Trophy was fished for on a Baltic Thursday evening at the begining of May. This was won by Billy Reid with an unprecedented bag of eight fish. This was the best weigh in at a Benston competition in living memory! Well done Billy!
The ever popular annual trout festival took place in the middle of May. Big winners were Frank Watt who took the heaviest basket in each of the four competitions and won the festival overall - and Gilbert Williamson who had the heaviest fish in three of the four competitions.
The Next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 6th June with a 1815 check in at the Bixter Hall.
The ever popular annual trout festival took place in the middle of May. Big winners were Frank Watt who took the heaviest basket in each of the four competitions and won the festival overall - and Gilbert Williamson who had the heaviest fish in three of the four competitions.
The Next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 6th June with a 1815 check in at the Bixter Hall.
Antares Trophy 4-5-19
It was a return to winter last Saturday morning as flyfishers assembled at the Tingwall boat shed for round two of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. With temperatures struggling to reach five degrees in the fresh Northerly breeze anglers had been forced to look out thermal base layers and Long Johns which they thought had been safely stowed away for another season.
As competitors huddled in the relative comfort of the boat shed, wrapped up in woolly hats, hoodies and snoods, there wasn’t just a great deal of enthusiasm to get going. It was good to see Bobby Irvine back in the crowd along with Peter Laurenson, Frank Watt and Harry Sandison who were all attending there first bank competition of the year. The charismatic Leslie Barclay is still on the injury list however and is a big miss in the team. Hopefully it won’t be too long before we see the big man back in action. It was left to father and son combo Magnie and Ian Reid to keep everyone’s spirits up with their unique blend of gags and jolly japes.
Competitors had a wide choice of lochs in the Tingwall/Lerwick area and the deep South. There was the added incentive that as well as fishing for valuable league points, the Antares Trophy was also up for grabs.
The 1020 kick off saw the majority of vehicles heading South. There was little doubt however that wherever you went today the angling was going to be difficult in the arctic conditions, with spells of glaring sunshine thrown in for good measure! It was certainly going to be an endurance test.
Surprisingly enough at the 1740 weigh it transpired that it was a “Full House.” Every one of the 11 starters had trout to weigh in.
Taking first place and the Antares Trophy was Frank Watt with a fantastic basket from Spiggie which might very well see his name appearing on another couple of trophies come the end of the season. Frank’s top fly was a “Green Tailed Black Muddler.”
Second and third place respectively went to Peter Laurenson and Mark Sandison who had also fished Spiggie. Both men had scored with a small “Olive Nymph.” Peter’s basket also included the heaviest fish of the day at 1 lb, 11 oz., beating a disgruntled Sandison who had a fish 1 ¼ oz. lighter. Fourth spot went to the on fire Tony Li who can do no wrong at the moment. Tony had put together a basket from Tingwall And Asta.
Other anglers weighing in were Billy Reid, Ian Reid, Harry Sandison,Bobby Irvine, Greig Anderson, Dave Wright and Magnie Reid.
This leaves the bank League as follows with Tony Li taking a deserved early lead.
It was a return to winter last Saturday morning as flyfishers assembled at the Tingwall boat shed for round two of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. With temperatures struggling to reach five degrees in the fresh Northerly breeze anglers had been forced to look out thermal base layers and Long Johns which they thought had been safely stowed away for another season.
As competitors huddled in the relative comfort of the boat shed, wrapped up in woolly hats, hoodies and snoods, there wasn’t just a great deal of enthusiasm to get going. It was good to see Bobby Irvine back in the crowd along with Peter Laurenson, Frank Watt and Harry Sandison who were all attending there first bank competition of the year. The charismatic Leslie Barclay is still on the injury list however and is a big miss in the team. Hopefully it won’t be too long before we see the big man back in action. It was left to father and son combo Magnie and Ian Reid to keep everyone’s spirits up with their unique blend of gags and jolly japes.
Competitors had a wide choice of lochs in the Tingwall/Lerwick area and the deep South. There was the added incentive that as well as fishing for valuable league points, the Antares Trophy was also up for grabs.
The 1020 kick off saw the majority of vehicles heading South. There was little doubt however that wherever you went today the angling was going to be difficult in the arctic conditions, with spells of glaring sunshine thrown in for good measure! It was certainly going to be an endurance test.
Surprisingly enough at the 1740 weigh it transpired that it was a “Full House.” Every one of the 11 starters had trout to weigh in.
Taking first place and the Antares Trophy was Frank Watt with a fantastic basket from Spiggie which might very well see his name appearing on another couple of trophies come the end of the season. Frank’s top fly was a “Green Tailed Black Muddler.”
Second and third place respectively went to Peter Laurenson and Mark Sandison who had also fished Spiggie. Both men had scored with a small “Olive Nymph.” Peter’s basket also included the heaviest fish of the day at 1 lb, 11 oz., beating a disgruntled Sandison who had a fish 1 ¼ oz. lighter. Fourth spot went to the on fire Tony Li who can do no wrong at the moment. Tony had put together a basket from Tingwall And Asta.
Other anglers weighing in were Billy Reid, Ian Reid, Harry Sandison,Bobby Irvine, Greig Anderson, Dave Wright and Magnie Reid.
This leaves the bank League as follows with Tony Li taking a deserved early lead.
Special mention must go to Burra Man Billy Reid who, in the absence of the bullet proof Barclay, took the “hard as nails” award. Billy had fished the whole day with one thumb twice the size of the other after a boating accident. As one wag pointed out “they just don’t make Burra men as tough as this any more!”
The next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 30th May on the West Side when we see a switch to evening competitions. Check in is at the Bixter Graveyard car park at 1815.
The next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 30th May on the West Side when we see a switch to evening competitions. Check in is at the Bixter Graveyard car park at 1815.
Central Mainland 20-4-19
The observant naturalist would have noticed flyfishers gathering at the Tingwall boat last Saturday morning for the first Shetland Anglers Association Bank Competition of the year and realised that Spring is here.
Most of the usual suspects were in attendance but here were some big name call offs. Foremost among these were bank competition stalwarts Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay who were both on the injury list. As one wag pointed out the absence of these two big hitters “might give some of the rest of us a chance!” Bobby and Leslie are both wished a speedy recovery.
Anglers can sometimes be a dour and pessimistic bunch. However today there could be no room for complaint. Competitors had a choice of all the main waters in the central Mainland from Petta Water and the dour Benston in the North, down through the mighty Girlsta and lochs in the Tingwall Valley to Trebister and Brindister in the South. This wide choice of lochs coupled with the fact that it was the warmest day of the year so far with temperatures reaching double figures meant that there was a definite spring in the step of even the most grumpy of flyfishers.
To add even more cheer, as well as being the first round of the 2019 Bank League, competitors would also be fishing for the coveted Shetland Times trophy, one of the most beautiful pieces of silverware in the S.A.A. trophy cabinet.
The 1020 kick off saw most early efforts concentrate on Tingwall. Some rods could be seen bending into trout almost straight away, much to the frustration of those who were struggling to come up with the correct tactics.
Once the 1740 weigh in rolled around however it appeared that nearly everyone had fish to weigh in. It was clear that it was going to be a very tight weigh in.
Taking first place and the Shetland Times trophy was the on form Tony Li. with seven fish for 4 lb, 5 ¼ oz. from Tingwall. Runner up was veteran campaigner Magnie Reid with six trout from Sandwater for 3lb, 11 oz. Both anglers had scored with that old favourite the “Peach Muddler.” The Reid’s were on fire as young Ian took third place with seven fish for 3 lb, 4 ½ oz. Ian had fished Sandwater and Tingwall where his killing fly was a “Kate McLaren Muddler.”
Other successful anglers were Billy Reid, Alastair Jamieson, Mark Sandison, Greig Anderson – who had the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 4 ½ oz - Dave Wright and Derek Titheradge. The only thing which prevented it from being Full House was Jeemie Sandison who retired midway through the afternoon for an early bath.
Round two of the Fly Bank league competition takes place on Saturday 4th May when anglers will also be fishing for the Antares Trophy. Check in is at 10.20 at the Tingwall shed.
The observant naturalist would have noticed flyfishers gathering at the Tingwall boat last Saturday morning for the first Shetland Anglers Association Bank Competition of the year and realised that Spring is here.
Most of the usual suspects were in attendance but here were some big name call offs. Foremost among these were bank competition stalwarts Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay who were both on the injury list. As one wag pointed out the absence of these two big hitters “might give some of the rest of us a chance!” Bobby and Leslie are both wished a speedy recovery.
Anglers can sometimes be a dour and pessimistic bunch. However today there could be no room for complaint. Competitors had a choice of all the main waters in the central Mainland from Petta Water and the dour Benston in the North, down through the mighty Girlsta and lochs in the Tingwall Valley to Trebister and Brindister in the South. This wide choice of lochs coupled with the fact that it was the warmest day of the year so far with temperatures reaching double figures meant that there was a definite spring in the step of even the most grumpy of flyfishers.
To add even more cheer, as well as being the first round of the 2019 Bank League, competitors would also be fishing for the coveted Shetland Times trophy, one of the most beautiful pieces of silverware in the S.A.A. trophy cabinet.
The 1020 kick off saw most early efforts concentrate on Tingwall. Some rods could be seen bending into trout almost straight away, much to the frustration of those who were struggling to come up with the correct tactics.
Once the 1740 weigh in rolled around however it appeared that nearly everyone had fish to weigh in. It was clear that it was going to be a very tight weigh in.
Taking first place and the Shetland Times trophy was the on form Tony Li. with seven fish for 4 lb, 5 ¼ oz. from Tingwall. Runner up was veteran campaigner Magnie Reid with six trout from Sandwater for 3lb, 11 oz. Both anglers had scored with that old favourite the “Peach Muddler.” The Reid’s were on fire as young Ian took third place with seven fish for 3 lb, 4 ½ oz. Ian had fished Sandwater and Tingwall where his killing fly was a “Kate McLaren Muddler.”
Other successful anglers were Billy Reid, Alastair Jamieson, Mark Sandison, Greig Anderson – who had the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 4 ½ oz - Dave Wright and Derek Titheradge. The only thing which prevented it from being Full House was Jeemie Sandison who retired midway through the afternoon for an early bath.
Round two of the Fly Bank league competition takes place on Saturday 4th May when anglers will also be fishing for the Antares Trophy. Check in is at 10.20 at the Tingwall shed.