West Side Trophy 13-8-22
Fly fishers checked in at the Bixter Graveyard carpark last Saturday morning for the final round of the S.A.A. Fly bank league. After the chaotic scenes of previous competitions this year, it was good to see “Poacher come Gamekeeper” Leslie Barclay getting all the vehicles organized into an orderly formation behind that of competition secretary Billy Reid.
With Billy already having secured the League Title this year all eyes were on sixth place in the league and the remaining team place to fish for the County in Caithness next year. This would be a straight shoot out between the enigmatic Leslie Barclay and the steady Greig Anderson. To add a little bit of spice to the occasion there was also the small matter of the Westside trophy being up for grabs. Competition big guns Ian Reid and Bobby Irvine were absent due to holiday commitments and this added to the general feeling that this was a completely open field with no clear favourites.
Competitors had a wide choice of some of Shetland’s premier trout waters on the West side. However with the heavy rains of the previous week, the biggest problem facing anglers today would be the fact that the lochs would be high and coloured. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be critical to success. There could be no complaints over the weather conditions with overcast skies and a warm Southerly breeze.
The 1015 starting gun saw fly fishers shooting off to the various nooks and crannies of the West side. A foot race soon developed between Tony Li, Mark Sandison and Leslie Barclay to get to the fishiest spots in Vaara. Barclay had just reached the bottom of the hill when the crafty Li suggested to him that he had maybe left his car lights on. Leslie had to sprint back to the top of the hill only to discover that he had actually switched his lights off! Meanwhile Tony went skipping off down the bank of Vaara to his favourite spot. Such is the cutthroat world of competition fly fishing!
As the day wore on some anglers found lochs that were working while others didn’t and some managed to score in the peat stained waters whilst others struggled.
At the 1740 weigh in it was clear that one angler in particular had excelled. Frank Watt had fished the often overlooked Kirkhouse and Collaster where, despite the murky conditions, he had put together a fantastic basket of 18 fish for 13 lb 8oz. Watt had fished a team of “Shuttlecocks” to devastating effect. This easily secured the Westside Trophy for Frank as well as second place in the league.
Runner up was an ecstatic Leslie Barclay. When your luck’s in your luck’s in. Leslie had taken three fish in the last ten minutes of the competition to give him a basket of nine for 6 lb, 5 ¾ oz. An absolutely delighted Barclay paid tribute to old pal Stephen Brevik. The pair of them had been sitting at the tieing vice the previous evening where they had come up with the “BBVSBHH” (Barclay & Brevik’s Variant Stingy Bee Half Hog). This was the fly that had taken Leslie’s fish and secured sixth place in the league and a team place for next year. Just think what further damage Barclay could have done if a “bull the size of a mini” hadn’t curtailed his progress down the back of Vaara!
Third place went to Mark Sandison with ten fish for 6lb exactly. Sandison had scored with a “Claret Hedgehog.”
Other successful anglers were Dave Wright who also had the heaviest fish of the day at 1lb, 8 ¼ oz, Tony Li, Harry Sandison, Billy Reid, Derek Titheradge and Greig Anderson.
This leaves the final league table for 2022 as follows:
Fly fishers checked in at the Bixter Graveyard carpark last Saturday morning for the final round of the S.A.A. Fly bank league. After the chaotic scenes of previous competitions this year, it was good to see “Poacher come Gamekeeper” Leslie Barclay getting all the vehicles organized into an orderly formation behind that of competition secretary Billy Reid.
With Billy already having secured the League Title this year all eyes were on sixth place in the league and the remaining team place to fish for the County in Caithness next year. This would be a straight shoot out between the enigmatic Leslie Barclay and the steady Greig Anderson. To add a little bit of spice to the occasion there was also the small matter of the Westside trophy being up for grabs. Competition big guns Ian Reid and Bobby Irvine were absent due to holiday commitments and this added to the general feeling that this was a completely open field with no clear favourites.
Competitors had a wide choice of some of Shetland’s premier trout waters on the West side. However with the heavy rains of the previous week, the biggest problem facing anglers today would be the fact that the lochs would be high and coloured. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be critical to success. There could be no complaints over the weather conditions with overcast skies and a warm Southerly breeze.
The 1015 starting gun saw fly fishers shooting off to the various nooks and crannies of the West side. A foot race soon developed between Tony Li, Mark Sandison and Leslie Barclay to get to the fishiest spots in Vaara. Barclay had just reached the bottom of the hill when the crafty Li suggested to him that he had maybe left his car lights on. Leslie had to sprint back to the top of the hill only to discover that he had actually switched his lights off! Meanwhile Tony went skipping off down the bank of Vaara to his favourite spot. Such is the cutthroat world of competition fly fishing!
As the day wore on some anglers found lochs that were working while others didn’t and some managed to score in the peat stained waters whilst others struggled.
At the 1740 weigh in it was clear that one angler in particular had excelled. Frank Watt had fished the often overlooked Kirkhouse and Collaster where, despite the murky conditions, he had put together a fantastic basket of 18 fish for 13 lb 8oz. Watt had fished a team of “Shuttlecocks” to devastating effect. This easily secured the Westside Trophy for Frank as well as second place in the league.
Runner up was an ecstatic Leslie Barclay. When your luck’s in your luck’s in. Leslie had taken three fish in the last ten minutes of the competition to give him a basket of nine for 6 lb, 5 ¾ oz. An absolutely delighted Barclay paid tribute to old pal Stephen Brevik. The pair of them had been sitting at the tieing vice the previous evening where they had come up with the “BBVSBHH” (Barclay & Brevik’s Variant Stingy Bee Half Hog). This was the fly that had taken Leslie’s fish and secured sixth place in the league and a team place for next year. Just think what further damage Barclay could have done if a “bull the size of a mini” hadn’t curtailed his progress down the back of Vaara!
Third place went to Mark Sandison with ten fish for 6lb exactly. Sandison had scored with a “Claret Hedgehog.”
Other successful anglers were Dave Wright who also had the heaviest fish of the day at 1lb, 8 ¼ oz, Tony Li, Harry Sandison, Billy Reid, Derek Titheradge and Greig Anderson.
This leaves the final league table for 2022 as follows:
Once Barclay had located his phone to spread the good news everyone could then head home for a well earned rest.
Although the league is now over competitive fly fishing junkies need not despair. The annual match between the S.A.A. and the Whalsay club takes place this Saturday 20th August. This competition will incorporate the Reid’s Doubles and the check in is 0900 at the Tingwall shed.
The ever popular “Pairs” competition takes place on Saturday 27th August with a 1015 check in at the Tingwall Shed. Already the phone lines and social media are hot as anglers try to secure a partner. Competitors are reminded that top six league places cannot team up.
Although the league is now over competitive fly fishing junkies need not despair. The annual match between the S.A.A. and the Whalsay club takes place this Saturday 20th August. This competition will incorporate the Reid’s Doubles and the check in is 0900 at the Tingwall shed.
The ever popular “Pairs” competition takes place on Saturday 27th August with a 1015 check in at the Tingwall Shed. Already the phone lines and social media are hot as anglers try to secure a partner. Competitors are reminded that top six league places cannot team up.
North Mainland 23-7-22
Eleven flyfishers gathered at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning to fish the eighth round of the S.A.A. Fly Bank league. With four anglers still in the running for the league title itself, two places still remaining for next year’s S.A.A. bank team and the “Barometer Trophy” up for grabs there was everything to play for.
It was great to see cheeky cockney Dave Wright attending his first league competition of the year and lightening the mood with his own brand of humour and banter. As one wag pointed out, the check in bore a passing resemblance to a casting session for Dad’s Army.
Competition secretary Billy Reid had moved the starting point 50 metres up the road in an attempt to deter competitors from gaining an advantage by parking in front of his own vehicle. This didn’t stop the sneaky Leslie Barclay, who for once was on time, pulling in in front of everyone else on the starting grid. Competitors are reminded once again that the competition officially begins after a sharp blast on the competition secretary’s horn and that vehicles must form an orderly queue behind the competition secretary’s vehicle.
Conditions for fly fishing were ideal with an overcast sky and gentle winds. Flyfishers had a choice of all the top lochs in North Mavine which would work out a more than one loch per angler. As ever making the correct decision of venue would be of utmost importance to success.
The mighty Eela Water would see most of the early action. However the sight of anglers vehicles turning out of the surrounding parking places after a couple of hours was an indication that the loch wasn't living up to its reputation.
Now we had the situation where true champions really come to the fore. How many anglers had a solid plan B and could they utlise it effectively? It was the ever amazing Billy Reid and Bobby Irvine who called on all their vast experience to do just that.
Finding himself struggling in his favourite Eela Water, Reid made the brave and inspired decision to move to the legendary Houlland. On arriving at this enigmatic and dour water Billy discovered that the trout were up in the water and feeding. He proceeded to put together yet another fantastic basket of seven fish for 6lb, 9 ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Peach Hedgehog.” Billy’s basket also included the heaviest fish of the day, a beauty going 2lb, 1 oz.
Billy is unstoppable at the moment and this is his third straight win in a league competition. It would have been four but for a schoolboy error in Clousta on a Thursday evening in June.
This amazing run of results also means that Billy was crowned Bank League Champion for a second successive year with none of the chasing pack now able to catch him. This is an absolutely fantastic achievement as the Fly Bank League challenges flyfishers over a wide selection of waters at different times of the year and under very different conditions. Reid has proved again that he is currently Shetland’s top bank angler.
In a statement the humble Reid confessed that the “league title hadn’t even been on his mind and that he was just out to enjoy a day’s angling.” There was congratulations all round to an all round good guy!
Second place on the day went to Bobby Irvine who had also made the correct decision to move from Eela Water to the unfancied Wester Water. Here Bobby took nine fish for 5lb, ¼ oz. Bobby’s top fly was a “Claret Hedgehog.”
In third place was Mark Sandison who had stuck it out in Eela Water. Sandison had seven for 4 lb, 6 ½ oz taken mainly on a “Clan Chief” variant.
Other successful anglers were Ian Reid, Frank Watt, Leslie Barclay, Dave Wright, Greig Anderson, Derek Titheradge, Harry Sandison and Tony Li.
This leaves the league as follows:
Eleven flyfishers gathered at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning to fish the eighth round of the S.A.A. Fly Bank league. With four anglers still in the running for the league title itself, two places still remaining for next year’s S.A.A. bank team and the “Barometer Trophy” up for grabs there was everything to play for.
It was great to see cheeky cockney Dave Wright attending his first league competition of the year and lightening the mood with his own brand of humour and banter. As one wag pointed out, the check in bore a passing resemblance to a casting session for Dad’s Army.
Competition secretary Billy Reid had moved the starting point 50 metres up the road in an attempt to deter competitors from gaining an advantage by parking in front of his own vehicle. This didn’t stop the sneaky Leslie Barclay, who for once was on time, pulling in in front of everyone else on the starting grid. Competitors are reminded once again that the competition officially begins after a sharp blast on the competition secretary’s horn and that vehicles must form an orderly queue behind the competition secretary’s vehicle.
Conditions for fly fishing were ideal with an overcast sky and gentle winds. Flyfishers had a choice of all the top lochs in North Mavine which would work out a more than one loch per angler. As ever making the correct decision of venue would be of utmost importance to success.
The mighty Eela Water would see most of the early action. However the sight of anglers vehicles turning out of the surrounding parking places after a couple of hours was an indication that the loch wasn't living up to its reputation.
Now we had the situation where true champions really come to the fore. How many anglers had a solid plan B and could they utlise it effectively? It was the ever amazing Billy Reid and Bobby Irvine who called on all their vast experience to do just that.
Finding himself struggling in his favourite Eela Water, Reid made the brave and inspired decision to move to the legendary Houlland. On arriving at this enigmatic and dour water Billy discovered that the trout were up in the water and feeding. He proceeded to put together yet another fantastic basket of seven fish for 6lb, 9 ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Peach Hedgehog.” Billy’s basket also included the heaviest fish of the day, a beauty going 2lb, 1 oz.
Billy is unstoppable at the moment and this is his third straight win in a league competition. It would have been four but for a schoolboy error in Clousta on a Thursday evening in June.
This amazing run of results also means that Billy was crowned Bank League Champion for a second successive year with none of the chasing pack now able to catch him. This is an absolutely fantastic achievement as the Fly Bank League challenges flyfishers over a wide selection of waters at different times of the year and under very different conditions. Reid has proved again that he is currently Shetland’s top bank angler.
In a statement the humble Reid confessed that the “league title hadn’t even been on his mind and that he was just out to enjoy a day’s angling.” There was congratulations all round to an all round good guy!
Second place on the day went to Bobby Irvine who had also made the correct decision to move from Eela Water to the unfancied Wester Water. Here Bobby took nine fish for 5lb, ¼ oz. Bobby’s top fly was a “Claret Hedgehog.”
In third place was Mark Sandison who had stuck it out in Eela Water. Sandison had seven for 4 lb, 6 ½ oz taken mainly on a “Clan Chief” variant.
Other successful anglers were Ian Reid, Frank Watt, Leslie Barclay, Dave Wright, Greig Anderson, Derek Titheradge, Harry Sandison and Tony Li.
This leaves the league as follows:
As well as Billy securing the league title Ian Reid’s result also cemented his place in the S.A.A. bank team to face the D.F.F.A. next year. The final league competition takes place on Saturday 13th August with a 1015 check in at the Bixter Graveyard carpark. All eyes will now be on the sixth position and the final team place. This will be a straight shoot out between the enigmatic Leslie Barclay and Mr. Steady himself, Greig Anderson. No pressure boys!
The Excursion Trophy will be fished on Saturday 6th August. Check in is 0830 at the Laxo Junction.
The Excursion Trophy will be fished on Saturday 6th August. Check in is 0830 at the Laxo Junction.
Legends!
Westside 14-7-22
Ten 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.
The gales of earlier in the week had fallen away to a South Westerly breeze with overcast skies. Although maybe a tad on the chilly side there really was little room for complaint regarding the conditions and everyone was champing at the bit to get going.
There was another reason to be cheerful as the usually tardy Leslie Barclay had heeded warnings and read recent press reports and so arrived in plenty of time for the new 1805 kick off time. Well done Leslie!
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. This ratio seldom pans out in reality as competitors will initially concentrate on the waters that the jungle drums have reported to be “on.” However tonight it did and once our hardy crew had spread themselves out over the West side, eight out of the ten starters found themselves with a whole loch to themselves.
As ever, and especially in this competition, making the correct choice of venue is critical to success. It was clear at the 2230 weigh in that some anglers had done just that and put together some very good baskets in what is traditionally a very difficult event.
Top of the pile was the on fire Billy Reid who had utilised his vast experience to make all the correct decisions. A fantastic ten trout from his favourite Longa Water for 7lb. 9 ¾ oz. meant that he won the competition at a canter. His basket also included the heaviest fish of the evening at 1 lb 10 ½ oz. Billy’s top fly was a “Claret Hedgehog.” This result catapults Billy to the top of the league and with two competitions remaining he is looking like hot favourite to retain his Fly Bank League crown for another year.
Second place went to Bobby Irvine with seven fish from Sulma Water for 4 lb. 7oz. Bobby had scored with a “Naked |Spur.”
In third place and doing his chances of a team place for next year no harm at all was the ever dangerous Ian Reid who had eight from Lunga Water for 3 lb, 15 ¼ oz. Ian’s killing fly was his favourite “Duncat.”
Other anglers among the points were Leslie Barclay, Mark Sandison, Frank Watt, Derek Titheradge, Greig Anderson and Harry Sandison.
This leaves the league as follows with two competitions remaining.
Ten 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.
The gales of earlier in the week had fallen away to a South Westerly breeze with overcast skies. Although maybe a tad on the chilly side there really was little room for complaint regarding the conditions and everyone was champing at the bit to get going.
There was another reason to be cheerful as the usually tardy Leslie Barclay had heeded warnings and read recent press reports and so arrived in plenty of time for the new 1805 kick off time. Well done Leslie!
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. This ratio seldom pans out in reality as competitors will initially concentrate on the waters that the jungle drums have reported to be “on.” However tonight it did and once our hardy crew had spread themselves out over the West side, eight out of the ten starters found themselves with a whole loch to themselves.
As ever, and especially in this competition, making the correct choice of venue is critical to success. It was clear at the 2230 weigh in that some anglers had done just that and put together some very good baskets in what is traditionally a very difficult event.
Top of the pile was the on fire Billy Reid who had utilised his vast experience to make all the correct decisions. A fantastic ten trout from his favourite Longa Water for 7lb. 9 ¾ oz. meant that he won the competition at a canter. His basket also included the heaviest fish of the evening at 1 lb 10 ½ oz. Billy’s top fly was a “Claret Hedgehog.” This result catapults Billy to the top of the league and with two competitions remaining he is looking like hot favourite to retain his Fly Bank League crown for another year.
Second place went to Bobby Irvine with seven fish from Sulma Water for 4 lb. 7oz. Bobby had scored with a “Naked |Spur.”
In third place and doing his chances of a team place for next year no harm at all was the ever dangerous Ian Reid who had eight from Lunga Water for 3 lb, 15 ¼ oz. Ian’s killing fly was his favourite “Duncat.”
Other anglers among the points were Leslie Barclay, Mark Sandison, Frank Watt, Derek Titheradge, Greig Anderson and Harry Sandison.
This leaves the league as follows with two competitions remaining.
The pats on the back for Leslie arriving in plenty of time proved to be a little premature. In his haste to make it to the check in on time he had forgotten to place his trusty landing net in the boot of the car. This crucial omission resulted in Barclay losing at least one fish on the night which ultimately cost him two places in the evening’s standings and significantly five league points. Small margins!
Flyfishers had barely had a chance to dry out and recompose themselves before they were off again for the ever popular Barry Robertson Memorial trophy on Saturday.
Competitors could check in at either Tingwall or Laxo and then everyone would gather at the Tingwall shed for a 1730 weigh in.
When anglers reconvened there were several good bags of trout in evidence. After a tense weigh in and draw to decide on partners a hush fell over the Tingwall boat shed as S.A.A. officials added up baskets and worked out the placings. As often happens in these situations it was two flyfishers at the very top of their game, Billy Reid and Ian Reid, who drew the golden ticket and blew everyone else out of the water with their combined basket of over 20lb. There was a hearty round of applause for the popular duo. As one wag announced, “The Reids have it!”
Mark Sandison expressed thanks on behalf of the S.A.A. to Kevin Robertson for providing prizes for the event.
The next fly competition takes place on Saturday 23rd July when anglers will have a choice of lochs in the Northmavine area. Check in is at 1015 at Mavis Grind.
Flyfishers had barely had a chance to dry out and recompose themselves before they were off again for the ever popular Barry Robertson Memorial trophy on Saturday.
Competitors could check in at either Tingwall or Laxo and then everyone would gather at the Tingwall shed for a 1730 weigh in.
When anglers reconvened there were several good bags of trout in evidence. After a tense weigh in and draw to decide on partners a hush fell over the Tingwall boat shed as S.A.A. officials added up baskets and worked out the placings. As often happens in these situations it was two flyfishers at the very top of their game, Billy Reid and Ian Reid, who drew the golden ticket and blew everyone else out of the water with their combined basket of over 20lb. There was a hearty round of applause for the popular duo. As one wag announced, “The Reids have it!”
Mark Sandison expressed thanks on behalf of the S.A.A. to Kevin Robertson for providing prizes for the event.
The next fly competition takes place on Saturday 23rd July when anglers will have a choice of lochs in the Northmavine area. Check in is at 1015 at Mavis Grind.
S.A.A. v D.F.F.A. – 8th & 9th July 2022
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. Jan Hughes, Alex Donald, James Simpson, Leslie Robertson, Neil Clyne and Ian Cannop arrived in Shetland in buoyant mood on the Thursday giving themselves every chance to acclimatise to the Shetland conditions. After renewing old acquaintances and getting settled into their accommodation the excited visitors were then whisked off for an afternoon’s angling on some of Shetland’s favourite lochs. They then retired for an early night in order to get the best preparation for the arduous two days competition which lay ahead.
The inter club event, now in its 24th year would be fished over the Friday and Saturday. A draw had been 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 strong Westerly winds and overcast skies. Although it was maybe going to be on the cold side, these should be good flyfishing conditions - on paper at least! Understandably then everyone was keen to get going on the Friday morning as the S.A.A. hosts picked up their Dounreay fishing partner for the day.
After eight hours of thrashing the Shetland lochs to frenzy it was "lines up" at 1700 hrs. The two teams then reconvened at S.A.A. team member Tony Li’s garage for the first day's weigh in. It was immediately clear that some very good baskets of trout had been caught despite the strong Westerly wind.
It was the Shetland team who had put their local knowledge to full advantage weighing in 73 fish for 43 lb, 5 ¾ oz., compared to the D.F.F.A.’s 48 fish for 27 lb, 1 ¾ oz.
Heaviest basket on the day came from Frank Watt who had an excellent fourteen for 11 lb exactly. Frank also had the heaviest fish at 2 lb, ¼ oz. Top Rod for the D.F.F.A. was Ian Cannop with twelve fish for 6lb, 1 ¾ oz.
Trout had been taken over the course day from a variety of lochs throughout the island.
This gave the S.A.A. a half time lead of 16 lb. However Jan Hughes was quick to inject some steel and resolve into his team pointing out that this was fly fishing and anything could happen on day two.
Strangely enough when it comes to the extreme sport of Fly Fishing there was no real incidents of note to report after a hard day’s angling other than the accident prone Neil Clyne having not one but two attempts at an electric fence in the South Mainland. This was coupled with his usual trick of falling in and the sole falling off his wading boots!
The forecast was spot on as the two teams woke on Saturday morning to an almost identical day to Friday, refreshed and ready for action,. With Neil Clyne’s wading boots having been carefully repaired with parcelling tape our hardy boys 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? S.A.A. man Billy Reid certainly wasn't found lacking in this department as he would circumnavigate the mighty Clousta over the course of the day.
As the 1630 “lines up” drew near Neil Clyne’s wading boots finally gave up the ghost and it looked like the writing might be on the wall for the Caithness men.
When the two teams reconvened for the weigh in it transpired that both teams had again enjoyed some good sport. The S.A.A weighed in 52 trout for 34 lb, 3 ¼ oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 30 fish for 18 lb, 11 oz.
Tony Li had the heaviest on the day, a beauty going 2 lb, 7 ½ oz which fell to an “Olive Half Hog.” Mark Sandison had the heaviest basket while top rod for the D.F.F.A. was James Simpson.
Again, a variety of lochs had produced fish.
This meant that the S.A.A.'s total for the two days was 125 fish for 77 lb, 9 oz. while the D.F.F.A.'s was 78 fish for 45 lb, 12 ¾ oz. A strong all round team performance by the Shetland boys.
After a slap up meal, 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 15th 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 beautiful Brian Hunter memorial trophy for the heaviest fish was then presented to Tony Li. Mark Sandison picked up the Viking Shield for the heaviest basket over the two days.
An S.A.A. spokesman thanked Billy Reid for all his hard work in organizing the meet and Bobby Irvine and the Antares for their continued sponsorship of the event. He went on to thank Ian Reid for stepping up to the plate as captain at the eleventh hour and Tony Li for providing hospitality and an excellent barbecue on the Friday evening. However he saved his biggest thanks for the D.F.F.A. team for travelling North and providing great competition and sport in what is the 24th meeting between the two associations
D.F.F.A. captain Jan Hughes then thanked the hosts for their hospitality and looked forward to seeing them in Caithness in 2023.
The formalities now over and with guest appearances by S.A.A.legends Dave Wright and Leslie Barclay, 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 14th July with an 1805 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! On Saturday 16th July the Barry Robertson Memorial Trophy will be fished for. Check in is at 10.00 either at Tingwall or Laxo.
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. Jan Hughes, Alex Donald, James Simpson, Leslie Robertson, Neil Clyne and Ian Cannop arrived in Shetland in buoyant mood on the Thursday giving themselves every chance to acclimatise to the Shetland conditions. After renewing old acquaintances and getting settled into their accommodation the excited visitors were then whisked off for an afternoon’s angling on some of Shetland’s favourite lochs. They then retired for an early night in order to get the best preparation for the arduous two days competition which lay ahead.
The inter club event, now in its 24th year would be fished over the Friday and Saturday. A draw had been 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 strong Westerly winds and overcast skies. Although it was maybe going to be on the cold side, these should be good flyfishing conditions - on paper at least! Understandably then everyone was keen to get going on the Friday morning as the S.A.A. hosts picked up their Dounreay fishing partner for the day.
After eight hours of thrashing the Shetland lochs to frenzy it was "lines up" at 1700 hrs. The two teams then reconvened at S.A.A. team member Tony Li’s garage for the first day's weigh in. It was immediately clear that some very good baskets of trout had been caught despite the strong Westerly wind.
It was the Shetland team who had put their local knowledge to full advantage weighing in 73 fish for 43 lb, 5 ¾ oz., compared to the D.F.F.A.’s 48 fish for 27 lb, 1 ¾ oz.
Heaviest basket on the day came from Frank Watt who had an excellent fourteen for 11 lb exactly. Frank also had the heaviest fish at 2 lb, ¼ oz. Top Rod for the D.F.F.A. was Ian Cannop with twelve fish for 6lb, 1 ¾ oz.
Trout had been taken over the course day from a variety of lochs throughout the island.
This gave the S.A.A. a half time lead of 16 lb. However Jan Hughes was quick to inject some steel and resolve into his team pointing out that this was fly fishing and anything could happen on day two.
Strangely enough when it comes to the extreme sport of Fly Fishing there was no real incidents of note to report after a hard day’s angling other than the accident prone Neil Clyne having not one but two attempts at an electric fence in the South Mainland. This was coupled with his usual trick of falling in and the sole falling off his wading boots!
The forecast was spot on as the two teams woke on Saturday morning to an almost identical day to Friday, refreshed and ready for action,. With Neil Clyne’s wading boots having been carefully repaired with parcelling tape our hardy boys 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? S.A.A. man Billy Reid certainly wasn't found lacking in this department as he would circumnavigate the mighty Clousta over the course of the day.
As the 1630 “lines up” drew near Neil Clyne’s wading boots finally gave up the ghost and it looked like the writing might be on the wall for the Caithness men.
When the two teams reconvened for the weigh in it transpired that both teams had again enjoyed some good sport. The S.A.A weighed in 52 trout for 34 lb, 3 ¼ oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 30 fish for 18 lb, 11 oz.
Tony Li had the heaviest on the day, a beauty going 2 lb, 7 ½ oz which fell to an “Olive Half Hog.” Mark Sandison had the heaviest basket while top rod for the D.F.F.A. was James Simpson.
Again, a variety of lochs had produced fish.
This meant that the S.A.A.'s total for the two days was 125 fish for 77 lb, 9 oz. while the D.F.F.A.'s was 78 fish for 45 lb, 12 ¾ oz. A strong all round team performance by the Shetland boys.
After a slap up meal, 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 15th 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 beautiful Brian Hunter memorial trophy for the heaviest fish was then presented to Tony Li. Mark Sandison picked up the Viking Shield for the heaviest basket over the two days.
An S.A.A. spokesman thanked Billy Reid for all his hard work in organizing the meet and Bobby Irvine and the Antares for their continued sponsorship of the event. He went on to thank Ian Reid for stepping up to the plate as captain at the eleventh hour and Tony Li for providing hospitality and an excellent barbecue on the Friday evening. However he saved his biggest thanks for the D.F.F.A. team for travelling North and providing great competition and sport in what is the 24th meeting between the two associations
D.F.F.A. captain Jan Hughes then thanked the hosts for their hospitality and looked forward to seeing them in Caithness in 2023.
The formalities now over and with guest appearances by S.A.A.legends Dave Wright and Leslie Barclay, 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 14th July with an 1805 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! On Saturday 16th July the Barry Robertson Memorial Trophy will be fished for. Check in is at 10.00 either at Tingwall or Laxo.
D & D Doubles
Last Saturday morning saw a gathering of some of the isles most fervent anglers gather at the Tingwall boatshed for the illustrious D&D doubles trophy where the top and bottom 6 seeds are drawn out of hats , This provided some tasty looking partnerships Dave(crafty cockney)Wright and on fire Frank Watt looked a formidable twosome ,as did Billy Reid Derek Tithradge , and also not to mention Tony Li and Harry Sandison to name but a few tony and harry mixed up with their starting times and started 20 mins late,! the reigning 4 times Champions Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay were keeping a low profile before the action and no team was giving nothing away as anglers had the choice of any Loch on Shetland to fish, the main topic on everybody's lips was where the absent Mark Sandison(Shetlands Top Rod) was? rumour had it that he was being wrapped up in cotton wool(by his team mates)as to not have any mishaps/injury's before the annual intercounty match next weekend against Caithness, Leslie's take on it was that hes been pipped at the post so many times in this competition the fights gone Dave and Derek both nodded in agreement,,,, Before they knew it the starting horn blasted and the teams spread to the 5 corners of Shetland , at the 1745 weigh in it was obvious the teams had fared hard through the day with it being monsoon conditions the day before all the lochs were coloured and at winter levels, but you could cut the tension with a knife when 3 teams announced they had 13 fish each just as the scales were getting set up, and in 3rd place with 13 fish for 7lb 10oz was Billy and derek in 2nd place was Dave and Frank 13 fish for 7lb 14oz but in first place and winning the D&D trophy for the 5th time in a row are Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay 13 fish for 9lb 1oz, as they received a warm round of applause the modest duo thanked all for what had been a great challenge this year...this weekend the SAA v DFFA intercounty is on we wish the boys all the best, next Saturday 16/07/22 is the Barry Roberson Memorial trophy 1000 17,30 Tingwall or Laxo start.. (L.B.)
Last Saturday morning saw a gathering of some of the isles most fervent anglers gather at the Tingwall boatshed for the illustrious D&D doubles trophy where the top and bottom 6 seeds are drawn out of hats , This provided some tasty looking partnerships Dave(crafty cockney)Wright and on fire Frank Watt looked a formidable twosome ,as did Billy Reid Derek Tithradge , and also not to mention Tony Li and Harry Sandison to name but a few tony and harry mixed up with their starting times and started 20 mins late,! the reigning 4 times Champions Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay were keeping a low profile before the action and no team was giving nothing away as anglers had the choice of any Loch on Shetland to fish, the main topic on everybody's lips was where the absent Mark Sandison(Shetlands Top Rod) was? rumour had it that he was being wrapped up in cotton wool(by his team mates)as to not have any mishaps/injury's before the annual intercounty match next weekend against Caithness, Leslie's take on it was that hes been pipped at the post so many times in this competition the fights gone Dave and Derek both nodded in agreement,,,, Before they knew it the starting horn blasted and the teams spread to the 5 corners of Shetland , at the 1745 weigh in it was obvious the teams had fared hard through the day with it being monsoon conditions the day before all the lochs were coloured and at winter levels, but you could cut the tension with a knife when 3 teams announced they had 13 fish each just as the scales were getting set up, and in 3rd place with 13 fish for 7lb 10oz was Billy and derek in 2nd place was Dave and Frank 13 fish for 7lb 14oz but in first place and winning the D&D trophy for the 5th time in a row are Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay 13 fish for 9lb 1oz, as they received a warm round of applause the modest duo thanked all for what had been a great challenge this year...this weekend the SAA v DFFA intercounty is on we wish the boys all the best, next Saturday 16/07/22 is the Barry Roberson Memorial trophy 1000 17,30 Tingwall or Laxo start.. (L.B.)
North Mainland 23-6-22
It was a beautiful Shetland summer’s evening last Thursday as nine anglers rolled up at Mavis Grind for round six of the S.A.A. Fly bank league. In fact with a blazing sun and gentle Southerly breeze it was probably too fine a night for practicing the “gentle art!”
As fly fisher extraordinaire, all round good guy and weather guru Greig Anderson pointed out, “It was going to be a challenge!”
Conspicuous by his absence was the effervescent Leslie Barclay. There was a good chance of course that a mishap had befallen Barclay and he would be late. This is an all too frequent occurrence for Leslie who will usually send a text message to explain his developing crisis. On this occasion however this would have been pointless since, as Billy Reid pointed out, there was no signal at Mavis Grind!
Competitors had a wide range of all the major waters to choose from in the North Mainland from Kilka Water in Muckle Roe right up to Lochend in North Roe and the legendary Houlland in Eshaness.
Billy Reid was delighted upon arriving at Eela Water to discover that he had his favourite stretch of bank all to himself. Imagine Reid’s shock and surprise when the hurricane that is Leslie Barclay came thundering into the water 50 yards in front him, completely destroying the tranquility of a perfect evening, and sending all self respecting troots to the middle of the loch!
Leslie had again fallen foul of the new 1805 start time for evening competitions and missed the check in. This is the second time in a row that this has happened to Barclay and yet again competitors are reminded to check the competition sheet for venues and times. An indignant Barclay has decided to launch an official complaint to the S.A.A. management committee concerning this matter.
As the evening wore on the setting sun saw the fish up in the water but with the gentle breeze falling away to a flat calm it proved extremely difficult to tempt a feeding trout. This was born out at the 2230 weigh in.
There is always someone that bucks the trend however and on this occasion it was Eela Water specialist, the amazing Billy Reid. Billy had a superb basket considering the hard conditions of eight fish for 5 lb, 4 ½ oz. Billy’s had scored with “Hedgehogs.”
Sneaking into second place was Mark Sandison who had also fished Eela Water, taking six trout for 3 lb, 13 ¾ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a small “Clan Chief” variant.
Third place went to the on fire Kevin Robertson who had five from Punds Water for 2 lb 13 ¾ oz. Kevin’s best fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other anglers gaining points were John Laurenson, Derek Titheradge (who also had the heaviest fish of the evening at 1 lb 2 ¼ oz) Greig Anderson, Harry Sandison, Leslie Barclay, Bobby Irvine and Frank Watt.
With six of the league competitions having been fished this now leaves the table as follows.
It was a beautiful Shetland summer’s evening last Thursday as nine anglers rolled up at Mavis Grind for round six of the S.A.A. Fly bank league. In fact with a blazing sun and gentle Southerly breeze it was probably too fine a night for practicing the “gentle art!”
As fly fisher extraordinaire, all round good guy and weather guru Greig Anderson pointed out, “It was going to be a challenge!”
Conspicuous by his absence was the effervescent Leslie Barclay. There was a good chance of course that a mishap had befallen Barclay and he would be late. This is an all too frequent occurrence for Leslie who will usually send a text message to explain his developing crisis. On this occasion however this would have been pointless since, as Billy Reid pointed out, there was no signal at Mavis Grind!
Competitors had a wide range of all the major waters to choose from in the North Mainland from Kilka Water in Muckle Roe right up to Lochend in North Roe and the legendary Houlland in Eshaness.
Billy Reid was delighted upon arriving at Eela Water to discover that he had his favourite stretch of bank all to himself. Imagine Reid’s shock and surprise when the hurricane that is Leslie Barclay came thundering into the water 50 yards in front him, completely destroying the tranquility of a perfect evening, and sending all self respecting troots to the middle of the loch!
Leslie had again fallen foul of the new 1805 start time for evening competitions and missed the check in. This is the second time in a row that this has happened to Barclay and yet again competitors are reminded to check the competition sheet for venues and times. An indignant Barclay has decided to launch an official complaint to the S.A.A. management committee concerning this matter.
As the evening wore on the setting sun saw the fish up in the water but with the gentle breeze falling away to a flat calm it proved extremely difficult to tempt a feeding trout. This was born out at the 2230 weigh in.
There is always someone that bucks the trend however and on this occasion it was Eela Water specialist, the amazing Billy Reid. Billy had a superb basket considering the hard conditions of eight fish for 5 lb, 4 ½ oz. Billy’s had scored with “Hedgehogs.”
Sneaking into second place was Mark Sandison who had also fished Eela Water, taking six trout for 3 lb, 13 ¾ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a small “Clan Chief” variant.
Third place went to the on fire Kevin Robertson who had five from Punds Water for 2 lb 13 ¾ oz. Kevin’s best fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other anglers gaining points were John Laurenson, Derek Titheradge (who also had the heaviest fish of the evening at 1 lb 2 ¼ oz) Greig Anderson, Harry Sandison, Leslie Barclay, Bobby Irvine and Frank Watt.
With six of the league competitions having been fished this now leaves the table as follows.
Not content with their lot on Thursday evening some flyfishers were keen for even more Northmavine action with the annual Ronas Hill extravaganza the following Saturday. This endurance event in steekit mist, blazing sun and a flying gale was won by the evergreen Bobby Irvine with 20 fish for 11 lb, ¾ oz.
The league now takes a break as The S.A.A. welcome the D.F.F.A. to fish the annual intercountry. We wish our boys all the very best for this match. The league reconvenes on Thursday 14th July with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Graveyard car park. Competition junkies need not despair however as the annual “D & D Doubles” competition will be fished on Saturday 2nd July with a 1015 start from the Tingwall shed. As there is a seeded draw for this event competitors are reminded to check in in plenty of time.
The league now takes a break as The S.A.A. welcome the D.F.F.A. to fish the annual intercountry. We wish our boys all the very best for this match. The league reconvenes on Thursday 14th July with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Graveyard car park. Competition junkies need not despair however as the annual “D & D Doubles” competition will be fished on Saturday 2nd July with a 1015 start from the Tingwall shed. As there is a seeded draw for this event competitors are reminded to check in in plenty of time.
Clousta Road 16-6-22
Thirteen flyfishers checked in at the Bixter Hall last Thursday evening to fish round five of the Shetland Anglers Association Fly Bank League. There was controversy straight away as Mark Sandison pulled in directly in front of Ian Reid’s pick up and so gained pole position on the grid. For a second Reid thought about making an official complaint until he remembered who writes the reports! The pen is indeed mightier than the sword.
The only other incident of note at the check in concerned Magnie Reid’s waders. Magnie had cut a dashing figure the previous weekend in a pair of brand new waders which had been recommended by his good friend and dedicated follower of fashion Harry Sandison. Unfortunately Magnie had been forced to return the new waders to Amazon due to them be too uncomfortable to walk in. He’d had to dig around in the shed for his trusty old pair of zip up Simms for tonight’s competition. This just goes to show that one should always choose substance over presentation.
It was a perfect summer’s evening for fly fishing with a light Southerly breeze and temperatures in the teens. Anglers had a choice of lochs in the Clousta road area. On paper at least this is possibly the best area for trout fishing in Shetland with classic waters such as Clousta, Vaara, Kirkhouse, Northouse and Clings Water on offer. Of course fly fishing competitions aren’t won on paper!
The 1805 start saw a fairly even distribution of anglers over these lochs with perhaps Vaara and Clings Water seeing most of the early action.
The mild conditions lasted all through the evening and this translated into some very good baskets of trout for the 2230 weigh in.
Taking first place was the evergreen Bobby Irvine with an excellent 13 fish from Vaara for 7 lb, 2 ¼ oz. When Irvine get’s into his stride on Vaara he is almost impossible to beat. Bobby’s killing fly was a “Doobry Muddler.”
Runner up was Billy Reid who had ten trout from Clousta for 7 lb exactly. Reid also had the heaviest fish of the evening – and possibly the ugliest trout of the year – at 1 lb, 3 ¼ oz. Billy’s had scored with an “Olive Hedgehog.”
In third place was the effervescent Leslie Barclay. Despite having to be prevented from weighing in his car keys along with his fish Barclay had ten trout for 5 lb, 7 oz from Vaara. Leslie’s top fly was a “Clan Chief variant.”
Other anglers gaining points were Mark Sandison, Greig Anderson, Kevin Robertson, Liam Wheelan, Ian Reid, Frank Watt, Tony Li and Harry Sandison.
With five of the nine competitions having now been fished the league is as follows:
Thirteen flyfishers checked in at the Bixter Hall last Thursday evening to fish round five of the Shetland Anglers Association Fly Bank League. There was controversy straight away as Mark Sandison pulled in directly in front of Ian Reid’s pick up and so gained pole position on the grid. For a second Reid thought about making an official complaint until he remembered who writes the reports! The pen is indeed mightier than the sword.
The only other incident of note at the check in concerned Magnie Reid’s waders. Magnie had cut a dashing figure the previous weekend in a pair of brand new waders which had been recommended by his good friend and dedicated follower of fashion Harry Sandison. Unfortunately Magnie had been forced to return the new waders to Amazon due to them be too uncomfortable to walk in. He’d had to dig around in the shed for his trusty old pair of zip up Simms for tonight’s competition. This just goes to show that one should always choose substance over presentation.
It was a perfect summer’s evening for fly fishing with a light Southerly breeze and temperatures in the teens. Anglers had a choice of lochs in the Clousta road area. On paper at least this is possibly the best area for trout fishing in Shetland with classic waters such as Clousta, Vaara, Kirkhouse, Northouse and Clings Water on offer. Of course fly fishing competitions aren’t won on paper!
The 1805 start saw a fairly even distribution of anglers over these lochs with perhaps Vaara and Clings Water seeing most of the early action.
The mild conditions lasted all through the evening and this translated into some very good baskets of trout for the 2230 weigh in.
Taking first place was the evergreen Bobby Irvine with an excellent 13 fish from Vaara for 7 lb, 2 ¼ oz. When Irvine get’s into his stride on Vaara he is almost impossible to beat. Bobby’s killing fly was a “Doobry Muddler.”
Runner up was Billy Reid who had ten trout from Clousta for 7 lb exactly. Reid also had the heaviest fish of the evening – and possibly the ugliest trout of the year – at 1 lb, 3 ¼ oz. Billy’s had scored with an “Olive Hedgehog.”
In third place was the effervescent Leslie Barclay. Despite having to be prevented from weighing in his car keys along with his fish Barclay had ten trout for 5 lb, 7 oz from Vaara. Leslie’s top fly was a “Clan Chief variant.”
Other anglers gaining points were Mark Sandison, Greig Anderson, Kevin Robertson, Liam Wheelan, Ian Reid, Frank Watt, Tony Li and Harry Sandison.
With five of the nine competitions having now been fished the league is as follows:
There was an awkward moment at the weigh in when official record keeper Mark Sandison announced that Harry Sandison had come in one place before Tony Li. Li however was on the ball and quickly pointed out to Sandison that he’d made a mistake and that he himself had indeed come in one place before Harry! The mistake was quickly rectified. Apologies Tony. Small margins!
The next bank league competition is in Northmavine next Thursday the 23rd of June with an 1805 check in at Mavis Grind. This is followed by the Ronas Hill competition on Saturday 25th June with a 0900 check in at the Collafirth pier. Competitors are reminded to bring their map and compass.
The next bank league competition is in Northmavine next Thursday the 23rd of June with an 1805 check in at Mavis Grind. This is followed by the Ronas Hill competition on Saturday 25th June with a 0900 check in at the Collafirth pier. Competitors are reminded to bring their map and compass.
Tulloch Midsummer Shield 11-6-22
With rowing regattas, football tournaments and other sporting events being cancelled left, right and centre due to the inclement forecast last Saturday, it fell to the hardy trooty boys to keep the flag flying for Shetland’s outdoor sports. When it comes to the Shetland Anglers Association Fly bank league there really is no postponement for weather!
And so it was that thirteen of Shetland’s toughest anglers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed for round four of the Fly Bank League. Competitors would also be fishing for the coveted Tulloch Midsummer Shield which due to a heavy calendar of fixtures was maybe a bit premature. Nobody was complaining however on what seemed to be a perfect Shetland Summer’s morning for practicing the “gentle art.”
Leslie Barclay in particular wasn’t paying attention to the doom and gloom forecasts as he lounged around in t-shirt and sunglasses - and with the temperature at a balmy 14 degrees centigrade - was wondering why Mark Sandison was still wearing his Spring base layers. Barclay is well in the summer groove however as he’s currently planning his 60th birthday party in Ibiza where he’ll be celebrating with some classic DJs.
It was great to see the legend that is Magnie Reid back in his waders and ready for some trooty action. Any suggestion that points gained by Magnie could be passed on to his absent son Ian were quickly quashed however. It was also good to see Bonnie Isle man Kevin Robertson back on the grid and raring to go.
The Tulloch Shield is a unique competition in that competitors had the choice of all the premier lochs on the Shetland Mainland. Of course making the correct choice of venue would be absolutely crucial to success.
The 1015 starting gun saw an equal split of vehicles heading up and down the Tingwall valley. Those heading up the valley were bound for the major waters on the West side. Those heading South would be making for the ever amazing Spiggie which has been on top form this season. However Spiggie can be very prone to switching off like a light bulb, especially with a change of weather conditions, leaving anglers high and dry in the Deep South.
It turned out that the weather forecast was spot on and as the day progressed the early mild conditions deteriorated into a South Westery gale and rain.
After a days battling against the elements it was a visibly tired crew who reassembled at the Tingwall shed for the 1740 weigh in. It was clear that despite the wild conditions some very good baskets of fish had been forthcoming.
Taking first place and the Tulloch Midsummer Shield at a canter was Spiggie master Frank Watt with a superb basket of 23 fish for 15 lb, 7 oz. Watt’s top fly was an “Olive Dabbler.” When he’s on this kind of form no one can touch Frank in Spiggie.
Mark Sandison was a distant runner up with 13 trout for 11 lb exactly, while Billy Reid claimed third spot with 15 for 9 lb, 5 ¼ oz. Both anglers had scored with a “Kerr’s Olive” inspired by local big fish man and all round good guy Andrew Kerr.
Other anglers gaining points were Bobby Irvine, Greig Anderson, Kevin Robertson, Liam Wheelan, Leslie Barclay, Tony Li, Harry Sandison and Derek Titheradge.
This leaves the league as follows:
With rowing regattas, football tournaments and other sporting events being cancelled left, right and centre due to the inclement forecast last Saturday, it fell to the hardy trooty boys to keep the flag flying for Shetland’s outdoor sports. When it comes to the Shetland Anglers Association Fly bank league there really is no postponement for weather!
And so it was that thirteen of Shetland’s toughest anglers checked in at the Tingwall boat shed for round four of the Fly Bank League. Competitors would also be fishing for the coveted Tulloch Midsummer Shield which due to a heavy calendar of fixtures was maybe a bit premature. Nobody was complaining however on what seemed to be a perfect Shetland Summer’s morning for practicing the “gentle art.”
Leslie Barclay in particular wasn’t paying attention to the doom and gloom forecasts as he lounged around in t-shirt and sunglasses - and with the temperature at a balmy 14 degrees centigrade - was wondering why Mark Sandison was still wearing his Spring base layers. Barclay is well in the summer groove however as he’s currently planning his 60th birthday party in Ibiza where he’ll be celebrating with some classic DJs.
It was great to see the legend that is Magnie Reid back in his waders and ready for some trooty action. Any suggestion that points gained by Magnie could be passed on to his absent son Ian were quickly quashed however. It was also good to see Bonnie Isle man Kevin Robertson back on the grid and raring to go.
The Tulloch Shield is a unique competition in that competitors had the choice of all the premier lochs on the Shetland Mainland. Of course making the correct choice of venue would be absolutely crucial to success.
The 1015 starting gun saw an equal split of vehicles heading up and down the Tingwall valley. Those heading up the valley were bound for the major waters on the West side. Those heading South would be making for the ever amazing Spiggie which has been on top form this season. However Spiggie can be very prone to switching off like a light bulb, especially with a change of weather conditions, leaving anglers high and dry in the Deep South.
It turned out that the weather forecast was spot on and as the day progressed the early mild conditions deteriorated into a South Westery gale and rain.
After a days battling against the elements it was a visibly tired crew who reassembled at the Tingwall shed for the 1740 weigh in. It was clear that despite the wild conditions some very good baskets of fish had been forthcoming.
Taking first place and the Tulloch Midsummer Shield at a canter was Spiggie master Frank Watt with a superb basket of 23 fish for 15 lb, 7 oz. Watt’s top fly was an “Olive Dabbler.” When he’s on this kind of form no one can touch Frank in Spiggie.
Mark Sandison was a distant runner up with 13 trout for 11 lb exactly, while Billy Reid claimed third spot with 15 for 9 lb, 5 ¼ oz. Both anglers had scored with a “Kerr’s Olive” inspired by local big fish man and all round good guy Andrew Kerr.
Other anglers gaining points were Bobby Irvine, Greig Anderson, Kevin Robertson, Liam Wheelan, Leslie Barclay, Tony Li, Harry Sandison and Derek Titheradge.
This leaves the league as follows:
Although we are not quite halfway through the league campaign it looks like Frank Watt will be very difficult to stop with the kind of form he is currently showing.
It was great to see John Laurenson back at the weigh in. He’d managed only half a day’s angling after deciding that the finer points of electrical engineering were maybe not his bag after all, finally deciding to take his pick up to the garage.
And spare a thought for Derek Titheradge who’d elected to fish his favourite Brow. After the day’s fishing Derek returned to his car only to discover that a herd of cows had pinched his rod racks! Apparently they had managed to do this without causing any damage to the car whatsoever!
Derek will have to be quick in getting a new set of racks before the next competition which takes place on Thursday 16th June in the Clousta Road with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Hall.
It was great to see John Laurenson back at the weigh in. He’d managed only half a day’s angling after deciding that the finer points of electrical engineering were maybe not his bag after all, finally deciding to take his pick up to the garage.
And spare a thought for Derek Titheradge who’d elected to fish his favourite Brow. After the day’s fishing Derek returned to his car only to discover that a herd of cows had pinched his rod racks! Apparently they had managed to do this without causing any damage to the car whatsoever!
Derek will have to be quick in getting a new set of racks before the next competition which takes place on Thursday 16th June in the Clousta Road with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Hall.
Westside 2-6-22
A sure sign that summer has arrived occurred last Thursday evening as a dozen flyfishers congregated at the Bixter graveyard carpark for the first evening S.A.A. bank competition of the season.
With car thermometers showing a balmy 13 degrees centigrade any passerby could have been forgiven for thinking they had landed in the middle of a photo shoot for a men’s outdoor clothing catalogue as competitors lounged around and shot the breeze in a fetching assortment of shorts, t-shirts, sunglasses and high end fly fishing apparel. The only thing missing from an otherwise perfect tableau was Shetland Anglers Association own poster boy Leslie Barclay. Surely competition stalwart Barclay couldn’t have got the wrong date for this event!?
The curmudgeonly Mark Sandison was having none of it however. He’d checked the forecast and the long drawers and base layers were going to stay on for another week at least!
It was great to see all round good guy and raconteur John Laurenson coming out of retirement for his first bank league competition in many a long year. It was also good to see “young guns” Stu Adams and Liam Whelan attending their first league competition of the season.
The new 1805 kick off time saw a procession of vehicles head deep into the Wild West on the A971. Anglers had a wide choice of lochs to choose from on the West Side, theoretically more waters than anglers, but the popular venue was certainly the mighty Lunga Water.
The bright conditions weren’t ideal for fly fishing and some competitors spent the first couple of hours looking over their shoulders for the sun to set, while others used the time more productively putting several trout in their baskets. However when the sun eventually “took the hill” the temperature plummeted to single digits which was also far from ideal.
As everybody reassembled for the 22.30 weigh a surprise was in store. Here was the dapper Leslie Barclay wondering why everyone had left without him at the start! It transpired of course that Leslie had failed to consult the competition sheet, or read recent press reports, and had missed the fact that evening competitions now have an 1805 start! Leslie certainly isn’t the first and probably won’t be the last competition angler to fall into this trap.
Despite the difficult conditions it was clear that some good baskets of fish had been forthcoming in what is traditionally a very tricky competition.
Taking first place with a superb basket of seven fish for 4 lb, 6 ¼ oz was Whalsay’s own Ian Reid. Ian had fished the difficult weather shore of Lunga Water where he had scored with a “Duncat.” There was a warm round of applause from the assembled throng for this popular Bonnie Isle man.
Second spot went to the on fire Frank Watt who also had seven from Lunga Water for 3 lb, 15 ½ oz. Frank’s top fly was a “Claret Hog.”
In third place was Mark Sandison who had fished his favourite Flatpunds for six trout weighing 3 lb, 9 ¼ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other successful anglers were Greig Anderson, Bobby Irvine, Derek Titheradge (who had the heaviest fish at 1 lb, 8 oz), Billy Reid, Leslie Barclay, John Laurenson, Liam Whelan and Tony Li.
With a three of this year’s fly bank competitions now having been fished this leaves the league as follows:
A sure sign that summer has arrived occurred last Thursday evening as a dozen flyfishers congregated at the Bixter graveyard carpark for the first evening S.A.A. bank competition of the season.
With car thermometers showing a balmy 13 degrees centigrade any passerby could have been forgiven for thinking they had landed in the middle of a photo shoot for a men’s outdoor clothing catalogue as competitors lounged around and shot the breeze in a fetching assortment of shorts, t-shirts, sunglasses and high end fly fishing apparel. The only thing missing from an otherwise perfect tableau was Shetland Anglers Association own poster boy Leslie Barclay. Surely competition stalwart Barclay couldn’t have got the wrong date for this event!?
The curmudgeonly Mark Sandison was having none of it however. He’d checked the forecast and the long drawers and base layers were going to stay on for another week at least!
It was great to see all round good guy and raconteur John Laurenson coming out of retirement for his first bank league competition in many a long year. It was also good to see “young guns” Stu Adams and Liam Whelan attending their first league competition of the season.
The new 1805 kick off time saw a procession of vehicles head deep into the Wild West on the A971. Anglers had a wide choice of lochs to choose from on the West Side, theoretically more waters than anglers, but the popular venue was certainly the mighty Lunga Water.
The bright conditions weren’t ideal for fly fishing and some competitors spent the first couple of hours looking over their shoulders for the sun to set, while others used the time more productively putting several trout in their baskets. However when the sun eventually “took the hill” the temperature plummeted to single digits which was also far from ideal.
As everybody reassembled for the 22.30 weigh a surprise was in store. Here was the dapper Leslie Barclay wondering why everyone had left without him at the start! It transpired of course that Leslie had failed to consult the competition sheet, or read recent press reports, and had missed the fact that evening competitions now have an 1805 start! Leslie certainly isn’t the first and probably won’t be the last competition angler to fall into this trap.
Despite the difficult conditions it was clear that some good baskets of fish had been forthcoming in what is traditionally a very tricky competition.
Taking first place with a superb basket of seven fish for 4 lb, 6 ¼ oz was Whalsay’s own Ian Reid. Ian had fished the difficult weather shore of Lunga Water where he had scored with a “Duncat.” There was a warm round of applause from the assembled throng for this popular Bonnie Isle man.
Second spot went to the on fire Frank Watt who also had seven from Lunga Water for 3 lb, 15 ½ oz. Frank’s top fly was a “Claret Hog.”
In third place was Mark Sandison who had fished his favourite Flatpunds for six trout weighing 3 lb, 9 ¼ oz. Sandison’s top fly was a “Peach Muddler.”
Other successful anglers were Greig Anderson, Bobby Irvine, Derek Titheradge (who had the heaviest fish at 1 lb, 8 oz), Billy Reid, Leslie Barclay, John Laurenson, Liam Whelan and Tony Li.
With a three of this year’s fly bank competitions now having been fished this leaves the league as follows:
The only other point of note at the weigh in was the discussion of some close shaves in the wild and untamed terrain of the Westside by some of the more experienced flyfishers present.
Fly bank competitions come thick and fast now. The next meet is the legendary “Tulloch Midsummer Shield” which takes place on the slightly premature date of Saturday 11th June with a 1015 check in at the Tingwall Shed. (Will competitors please note that this is the Tingwall Shed and not the Bixter graveyard carpark as advertised on some rogue competition sheets!) This is closely followed by the evening Clousta Road competition which takes place on Thursday 16th June with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Hall.
Fly bank competitions come thick and fast now. The next meet is the legendary “Tulloch Midsummer Shield” which takes place on the slightly premature date of Saturday 11th June with a 1015 check in at the Tingwall Shed. (Will competitors please note that this is the Tingwall Shed and not the Bixter graveyard carpark as advertised on some rogue competition sheets!) This is closely followed by the evening Clousta Road competition which takes place on Thursday 16th June with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Hall.
South Mainland 7-5-22
Eleven flyfishers rocked up at the Tingwall Boat Shed last Saturday morning for round 2 of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. As well as chasing valuable league points anglers also had the added incentive of the Antares Trophy being up for grabs.
There was early work for competition secretary Billy Reid after Tony Li suggested that he might try fishing with five or six flies on his cast. As one wag pointed out this would have been more like setting up for “going to da piltocks!” The rule book was consulted and it was pointed out to the over enthusiastic Li that “only four points are allowed on a cast.”
There was soon more controversy to deal with as another angler, also painted with the “over enthusiastic” brush, Leslie Barclay, parked his car well down the road and certainly outwith the confines of the Tingwall Boat Shed car park. As the same wag pointed out this meant that Leslie was “nearly halfway to Spiggie before the competition even started!” Competitors are reminded of the competition rule which clearly states that “no angler may leave the designated competition starting point before given the signal to do so by the competition secretary.”
What a difference a fortnight makes and anglers were able to enjoy a beautiful flat calm Shetland Spring morning, lounging in the sunshine and exchanging trooty news and in vogue fly patterns as they awaited the 1015 starting gun.
With the news that one of Shetland’s flagship lochs Spiggie had come on line, nearly all the competitor’s vehicles headed down the Tingwall valley toward the Deep South. In a moment of contrition the offending Barclay, obviously realising the error of his ways, had the good grace to let everyone else past before setting off himself. One of the more cynical competitors wondered if Leslie had just forgotten to close his boot!
Despite the poor angling conditions of blazing sun and cold Northwest breeze the mighty Spiggie certainly didn’t disappoint and come the 1740 weigh it was clear that some excellent baskets of fish had been forthcoming.
Taking first place and the Antares Trophy at a relative canter was undisputed Spiggie master Frank Watt. His fantastic basket of 31 fish for 20 lb, 10 ¼ oz. might just put him in line for even more silverware come the end of the season. Frank had scored with an “Olive Cruncher.” Frank’s bag also contained the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 10 ½ oz.
Runner up was Billy Reid with another excellent basket of 19 fish for14 lb 4 ¾ oz. Third spot went to Mark Sandison also with 19 for 12 lb, 1 ¾ oz. Reid’s top fly was a “Gold Muddler” while Sandison had stuck with his favourite “Olive Tadpole.”
Other successful anglers were Peter Laurenson, Ian Reid, Tony Li, Bobby Irvine, Leslie Barclay and Harry Sandison.
Top tactics on the day for most anglers were sinking lines in various densities.
With two league competitions having been fished this leaves the league as follows.
Eleven flyfishers rocked up at the Tingwall Boat Shed last Saturday morning for round 2 of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League. As well as chasing valuable league points anglers also had the added incentive of the Antares Trophy being up for grabs.
There was early work for competition secretary Billy Reid after Tony Li suggested that he might try fishing with five or six flies on his cast. As one wag pointed out this would have been more like setting up for “going to da piltocks!” The rule book was consulted and it was pointed out to the over enthusiastic Li that “only four points are allowed on a cast.”
There was soon more controversy to deal with as another angler, also painted with the “over enthusiastic” brush, Leslie Barclay, parked his car well down the road and certainly outwith the confines of the Tingwall Boat Shed car park. As the same wag pointed out this meant that Leslie was “nearly halfway to Spiggie before the competition even started!” Competitors are reminded of the competition rule which clearly states that “no angler may leave the designated competition starting point before given the signal to do so by the competition secretary.”
What a difference a fortnight makes and anglers were able to enjoy a beautiful flat calm Shetland Spring morning, lounging in the sunshine and exchanging trooty news and in vogue fly patterns as they awaited the 1015 starting gun.
With the news that one of Shetland’s flagship lochs Spiggie had come on line, nearly all the competitor’s vehicles headed down the Tingwall valley toward the Deep South. In a moment of contrition the offending Barclay, obviously realising the error of his ways, had the good grace to let everyone else past before setting off himself. One of the more cynical competitors wondered if Leslie had just forgotten to close his boot!
Despite the poor angling conditions of blazing sun and cold Northwest breeze the mighty Spiggie certainly didn’t disappoint and come the 1740 weigh it was clear that some excellent baskets of fish had been forthcoming.
Taking first place and the Antares Trophy at a relative canter was undisputed Spiggie master Frank Watt. His fantastic basket of 31 fish for 20 lb, 10 ¼ oz. might just put him in line for even more silverware come the end of the season. Frank had scored with an “Olive Cruncher.” Frank’s bag also contained the heaviest trout of the day at 1 lb, 10 ½ oz.
Runner up was Billy Reid with another excellent basket of 19 fish for14 lb 4 ¾ oz. Third spot went to Mark Sandison also with 19 for 12 lb, 1 ¾ oz. Reid’s top fly was a “Gold Muddler” while Sandison had stuck with his favourite “Olive Tadpole.”
Other successful anglers were Peter Laurenson, Ian Reid, Tony Li, Bobby Irvine, Leslie Barclay and Harry Sandison.
Top tactics on the day for most anglers were sinking lines in various densities.
With two league competitions having been fished this leaves the league as follows.
There was a moment of panic at the weigh in for Whalsay man Ian Reid. Ian’s long term mentor Harry Sandison had retired early leaving instructions with Ian that he had left his fish inside the blue boat at the Tingwall boat park. Imagine Reid’s horror when he realised that there was not one but three blue boats in the boat park and that Harry’s fish could not be found in any of them! Luckily the quick thinking Ian realised that this was some sort of rite of passage test set by Harry and the trout was located in the solitary green boat! Phew!
The bank league now takes a break until Thursday 2nd June when flyfishers will meet at the Bixter Graveyard at 1805 to fish the West Side lochs.
Competition junkies need not despair however as the much anticipated 2022 Trout festival will take place from Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st May. Full details can be found on the Shetland Anglers Association website.
Trout Festival 2022 - Shetland Anglers Association (shetlandtrout.co.uk)
In other news the annual Pottinger Benston Trophy was held last Thursday evening on a dirty night of wind and rain. Five hardy souls ventured forth on the dour Benston. The trophy was won by the on fire Frank Watt who can do no wrong at the moment with four fish for 3 lb 3oz. Well done Frank!
The bank league now takes a break until Thursday 2nd June when flyfishers will meet at the Bixter Graveyard at 1805 to fish the West Side lochs.
Competition junkies need not despair however as the much anticipated 2022 Trout festival will take place from Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st May. Full details can be found on the Shetland Anglers Association website.
Trout Festival 2022 - Shetland Anglers Association (shetlandtrout.co.uk)
In other news the annual Pottinger Benston Trophy was held last Thursday evening on a dirty night of wind and rain. Five hardy souls ventured forth on the dour Benston. The trophy was won by the on fire Frank Watt who can do no wrong at the moment with four fish for 3 lb 3oz. Well done Frank!
Benston 5-5-22. L to R. Greig Anderson, Frank Watt, Mark Sandison, Bobby Irvine, Tony Li.
Central Mainland & Shetland Times Trophy 23-4-22
The second last Saturday in April, a chilly North East wind, new born lambs cowering in the corners of parks and the temperature struggling to reach double figures. It could only mean one thing! Yes you’ve guessed it – the first Shetland Anglers Association Fly bank competition of the year. The only thing missing was snow showers!
Nine optimistic and hardy flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall shed for the new 1015 start. Very conspicuous by their absence were veteran campaigners Harry Sandison and Dave Wright. As another stalwart veteran suggested however the duo were probably feeling the cold on such a chilly April morning!
Normally the first competition of the season is an opportunity for anglers to show off and compare new tackle and accessories purchased over the close season. Most of the talk however seemed to centre around old leaky waders and the inconvenience and misery of cold wet trousers and long johns! Hard times! The exception was the dapper Derek Titheradge who was resplendent in a deluxe pair of specially shortened neoprene waders. This confirmed the old angling adage: “Any fool can get cold and wet but it takes brains to stay warm and dry!”
Leslie Barclay did produce a brand new mini telescope which he intended to use to spy on fellow competitors. The rule book was hastily consulted by competition Billy Reid. However no ruling could be found regarding the use of such a device and Leslie’s telescope was deemed to be legal. There were a few raised eyebrows at this decision.
With the Baltic conditions most anglers confessed that they would be delighted to put a single trout in their bag. One bright spark suggested that a draw could take place for the final positions and then everyone could go home and spend the afternoon with their feet up in front of the fire! Hope springs eternal though and the 1015 start saw our nine bold boys excited as ever and champing at the bit to get going.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the Central Mainland from Petta Water, Sand Water and Benston in the North down through the mighty Girlsta to the lochs in the Tingwall Valley and South to the Sandy Loch, Trebister and Brindister. Most of these waters would see some action over the course of the day. As well as valuable league points, as an added incentive the beautiful “Shetland Times Trophy” was also up for grabs.
Despite having 14 lochs to choose from old adversaries Leslie Barclay and Mark Sandison still managed to get in a tangle while sprinting to their favourite fishy spot in Asta. Luckily Barclay had the good sense to back down and the potentially powderkeg situation didn’t escalate!
A hard afternoon’s angling then ensued with some anglers fishing several locations in search of that elusive fish whereas others elected to stick it out in one venue.
At the 1740 weigh in it transpired that the initial gloomy predictions had been off the mark with eight out of the nine competitors managing to weigh in fish.
Taking first place and the Shetland Times trophy was Mark Sandison with ten trout for 8 lb, 3 ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Pearly White Cat.” In a post match interview a delighted Sandison admitted that his successful tactic was to target the fish which were following the model yachts as the Model Yacht Club held it’s weekly sailing regatta. He went on to pay tribute to ex mentor and intercounty fly fisherman, turned model yacht champion, Ian Couper, who had met Sandison on the bank half way through the afternoon and passed on some “fishy luck” to his former pupil.
Runner up with a fantastic basket of four fish for 7 lb, 4 ¾ oz from the difficult Benston was Frank Watt. Frank’s basket contained a beauty going 2 lb, 9 ¼ oz which fell to a “Hulk.” This monster has set an early high bar for the heaviest trout of the year trophy.
In third place was the evergreen Bobby Irvine with five from Sand Water for 3 lb, 6 ½ oz. Bobby had scored with a “Pink Tailed Loch Ordy.”
Other anglers gaining points were Ian Reid, Tony Li, Billy Reid, Greig Anderson and Leslie Barclay.
The next bank competition is the “Pottinger Benston Trophy” which takes place on Thursday 5th May with an 1805 check in at the Benston boat park. This is followed by round two of the Bank League on Saturday 7th May with a 1015 check in at the Tingwall shed where anglers will also be competing for the “Antares Trophy.” Let’s hope it’s warmed up a bit by then!
The second last Saturday in April, a chilly North East wind, new born lambs cowering in the corners of parks and the temperature struggling to reach double figures. It could only mean one thing! Yes you’ve guessed it – the first Shetland Anglers Association Fly bank competition of the year. The only thing missing was snow showers!
Nine optimistic and hardy flyfishers checked in at the Tingwall shed for the new 1015 start. Very conspicuous by their absence were veteran campaigners Harry Sandison and Dave Wright. As another stalwart veteran suggested however the duo were probably feeling the cold on such a chilly April morning!
Normally the first competition of the season is an opportunity for anglers to show off and compare new tackle and accessories purchased over the close season. Most of the talk however seemed to centre around old leaky waders and the inconvenience and misery of cold wet trousers and long johns! Hard times! The exception was the dapper Derek Titheradge who was resplendent in a deluxe pair of specially shortened neoprene waders. This confirmed the old angling adage: “Any fool can get cold and wet but it takes brains to stay warm and dry!”
Leslie Barclay did produce a brand new mini telescope which he intended to use to spy on fellow competitors. The rule book was hastily consulted by competition Billy Reid. However no ruling could be found regarding the use of such a device and Leslie’s telescope was deemed to be legal. There were a few raised eyebrows at this decision.
With the Baltic conditions most anglers confessed that they would be delighted to put a single trout in their bag. One bright spark suggested that a draw could take place for the final positions and then everyone could go home and spend the afternoon with their feet up in front of the fire! Hope springs eternal though and the 1015 start saw our nine bold boys excited as ever and champing at the bit to get going.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the Central Mainland from Petta Water, Sand Water and Benston in the North down through the mighty Girlsta to the lochs in the Tingwall Valley and South to the Sandy Loch, Trebister and Brindister. Most of these waters would see some action over the course of the day. As well as valuable league points, as an added incentive the beautiful “Shetland Times Trophy” was also up for grabs.
Despite having 14 lochs to choose from old adversaries Leslie Barclay and Mark Sandison still managed to get in a tangle while sprinting to their favourite fishy spot in Asta. Luckily Barclay had the good sense to back down and the potentially powderkeg situation didn’t escalate!
A hard afternoon’s angling then ensued with some anglers fishing several locations in search of that elusive fish whereas others elected to stick it out in one venue.
At the 1740 weigh in it transpired that the initial gloomy predictions had been off the mark with eight out of the nine competitors managing to weigh in fish.
Taking first place and the Shetland Times trophy was Mark Sandison with ten trout for 8 lb, 3 ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Pearly White Cat.” In a post match interview a delighted Sandison admitted that his successful tactic was to target the fish which were following the model yachts as the Model Yacht Club held it’s weekly sailing regatta. He went on to pay tribute to ex mentor and intercounty fly fisherman, turned model yacht champion, Ian Couper, who had met Sandison on the bank half way through the afternoon and passed on some “fishy luck” to his former pupil.
Runner up with a fantastic basket of four fish for 7 lb, 4 ¾ oz from the difficult Benston was Frank Watt. Frank’s basket contained a beauty going 2 lb, 9 ¼ oz which fell to a “Hulk.” This monster has set an early high bar for the heaviest trout of the year trophy.
In third place was the evergreen Bobby Irvine with five from Sand Water for 3 lb, 6 ½ oz. Bobby had scored with a “Pink Tailed Loch Ordy.”
Other anglers gaining points were Ian Reid, Tony Li, Billy Reid, Greig Anderson and Leslie Barclay.
The next bank competition is the “Pottinger Benston Trophy” which takes place on Thursday 5th May with an 1805 check in at the Benston boat park. This is followed by round two of the Bank League on Saturday 7th May with a 1015 check in at the Tingwall shed where anglers will also be competing for the “Antares Trophy.” Let’s hope it’s warmed up a bit by then!
