Westside Trophy 10-8-24
You could cut the tension with a knife as flyfishers gathered at the Bixter Graveyard carpark last Saturday morning to fish the final round of the S.A.A. 2023 Bank League.
In the most exciting climax to the league in living memory the league title had come down to a shoot out between four of Shetland’s top flyfishers – Tony Li, Billy Reid, Greig Anderson and Bobby Irvine. With only nine points separating these four anglers it was anybody’s guess which way the title would go. All of them would have to be at the very top of their game and use their not inconsiderable experience to make the right decisions regarding tactics and strategy!
But what was this. As the 1015 kick off time ticked ever closer there was no sign of Greig Anderson. It turned out that he was “aff” this weekend. Anderson will be cursing the poor planning that meant he was unavailable for this crucial date. As one wag pointed out, “And then there were three!”
Added to the tension was the small matter of the “Sandison/Irvine Westside Trophy” being up for grabs which meant that everyone present would be fishing their hearts out. We had the perfect ingredients then for an exciting and nerve jangling day’s angling on the Westside.
Although the weather was initially on the windy side the sky was overcast and the forecast was for the wind to drop as the day progressed. No room for complaints then in what should be very good fly fishing conditions.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs on the Westside. On paper at least some of these lochs should be the best in Shetland. As all flyfishers who are familiar with the vagaries of Shetland trout fishing know however angling on Shetland lochs doesn’t take place on paper! As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success. This choice is very much based on anglers individual experience but of course it can also be a bit of a lottery. The sight of some competitors motoring around in the middle of the afternoon confirmed that some of the lochs just weren’t playing ball.
At the weigh in it transpired that although the angling had been difficult for some there were also some very good baskets in evidence. A gracious Tony Li knew straight away that he had blown it as his three from Vaara just weren’t going to cut it.
“Cometh the hour, cometh the men” however. It was Bobby Irvine and Billy Reid who had come up trumps on the day. Using their vast experience they had both made the astute tactical decision to switch to the often overlooked Hulma Lees midway through the afternoon.
Bobby took first place and the “Westside trophy” with a superb 14 fish for 9 lb, 11 ¼ oz. Bobby’s basket also contained the heaviest trout of the day, a monster going 2 lb, ½ oz. which fell to Doobry Muddler. Bobby Claimed that he was “lucky” to take this big fish with his very last cast and which of course gave him the victory. He was fooling no one however as we all know you make your own “luck” when you’re top of the sporting tree!
Runner up was Billy with an excellent ten for 7 lb, 15 oz. Billy had scored with a “Spin Willie Ordie.”
Incredibly, as far as the league went, this meant that both Billy and Bobby were tied on 126 points and would share the title. The last time this happened was 1996! There were warm handshakes all round and it was generally agreed that this was probably a fitting end to such a close run in.
This is a great achievement for Bobby and Billy of course as the league tests anglers skills over the course of the season on a series of different venues and widely different conditions. These are two of Shetland’s best and most consistent fly fishermen who continue to set the standards for everyone around them. Well done Bobby and Billy!
Other successful anglers on the day were Mark Sandison, Ian Reid and Tony Li. This left the final League table for 2024 as follows:
You could cut the tension with a knife as flyfishers gathered at the Bixter Graveyard carpark last Saturday morning to fish the final round of the S.A.A. 2023 Bank League.
In the most exciting climax to the league in living memory the league title had come down to a shoot out between four of Shetland’s top flyfishers – Tony Li, Billy Reid, Greig Anderson and Bobby Irvine. With only nine points separating these four anglers it was anybody’s guess which way the title would go. All of them would have to be at the very top of their game and use their not inconsiderable experience to make the right decisions regarding tactics and strategy!
But what was this. As the 1015 kick off time ticked ever closer there was no sign of Greig Anderson. It turned out that he was “aff” this weekend. Anderson will be cursing the poor planning that meant he was unavailable for this crucial date. As one wag pointed out, “And then there were three!”
Added to the tension was the small matter of the “Sandison/Irvine Westside Trophy” being up for grabs which meant that everyone present would be fishing their hearts out. We had the perfect ingredients then for an exciting and nerve jangling day’s angling on the Westside.
Although the weather was initially on the windy side the sky was overcast and the forecast was for the wind to drop as the day progressed. No room for complaints then in what should be very good fly fishing conditions.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs on the Westside. On paper at least some of these lochs should be the best in Shetland. As all flyfishers who are familiar with the vagaries of Shetland trout fishing know however angling on Shetland lochs doesn’t take place on paper! As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success. This choice is very much based on anglers individual experience but of course it can also be a bit of a lottery. The sight of some competitors motoring around in the middle of the afternoon confirmed that some of the lochs just weren’t playing ball.
At the weigh in it transpired that although the angling had been difficult for some there were also some very good baskets in evidence. A gracious Tony Li knew straight away that he had blown it as his three from Vaara just weren’t going to cut it.
“Cometh the hour, cometh the men” however. It was Bobby Irvine and Billy Reid who had come up trumps on the day. Using their vast experience they had both made the astute tactical decision to switch to the often overlooked Hulma Lees midway through the afternoon.
Bobby took first place and the “Westside trophy” with a superb 14 fish for 9 lb, 11 ¼ oz. Bobby’s basket also contained the heaviest trout of the day, a monster going 2 lb, ½ oz. which fell to Doobry Muddler. Bobby Claimed that he was “lucky” to take this big fish with his very last cast and which of course gave him the victory. He was fooling no one however as we all know you make your own “luck” when you’re top of the sporting tree!
Runner up was Billy with an excellent ten for 7 lb, 15 oz. Billy had scored with a “Spin Willie Ordie.”
Incredibly, as far as the league went, this meant that both Billy and Bobby were tied on 126 points and would share the title. The last time this happened was 1996! There were warm handshakes all round and it was generally agreed that this was probably a fitting end to such a close run in.
This is a great achievement for Bobby and Billy of course as the league tests anglers skills over the course of the season on a series of different venues and widely different conditions. These are two of Shetland’s best and most consistent fly fishermen who continue to set the standards for everyone around them. Well done Bobby and Billy!
Other successful anglers on the day were Mark Sandison, Ian Reid and Tony Li. This left the final League table for 2024 as follows:
The top six will of course represent Shetland in Caithness next year.
Finally, spare a thought for the unlucky Tony Li. He has been on top form this year and fished consistently well over the season only to miss out on the league title at the death by a single point. Such is the cut throat world of competitive fly fishing!
There were more handshakes and congratulations all round for Irvine and Reid before our physically and mentally drained athletes headed home for some serious rest and recuperation after a taxing day.
The next fly competition is the annual Whalsay v S.A.A. competition which takes place on the 24th of August with a 0900 check in at the Tingwall boat shed. This competition will also incorporate the famous Reid’s Doubles trophy.
Finally, spare a thought for the unlucky Tony Li. He has been on top form this year and fished consistently well over the season only to miss out on the league title at the death by a single point. Such is the cut throat world of competitive fly fishing!
There were more handshakes and congratulations all round for Irvine and Reid before our physically and mentally drained athletes headed home for some serious rest and recuperation after a taxing day.
The next fly competition is the annual Whalsay v S.A.A. competition which takes place on the 24th of August with a 0900 check in at the Tingwall boat shed. This competition will also incorporate the famous Reid’s Doubles trophy.
North Mainland 27-7-24
Seven hardy flyfishers gathered at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning to fish the eighth round of the S.A.A. Fly Bank league. There was a great deal of tension in the air as six of those anglers present were still in the running for the league title itself. This is the closest run in to the championship in years. To quote Alex Ferguson “squeaky bum time,” or as third placed Tony Li observed – “A heavy weight title fight.” Although the banter was good natured enough competitors were obviously being very circumspect with their strategies for the day. To add some extra spice to the occasion, if indeed any were needed, the coveted “Barometer Trophy” was also up for grabs.
But what was this? No sign of competition stalwart Leslie Barclay! This is the first time that Barclay has missed a Fly Bank Competition in years. Various theories were expounded regarding Leslie’s absence becoming increasingly more fantastical as the clock ticked towards the 1015 start time.
Anglers had a wide choice of all the top lochs in Northmavine. However with “Old Jamaica” blazing down out of an azure blue sky and temperatures soaring to the high teens, the prospects for a successful day’s flyfishing were decidedly poor. Everyone knew that just putting a few fish in the basket over the course of the day might be enough to swing it.
The dire predictions were born out with nearly everyone struggling to tempt a trout in the blazing sun and stifling heat. The sight of anglers motoring between lochs as they abandoned plan A - and in most cases plan B as well - was indication of just how difficult the day was proving to be. “Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun!”
Someone always manages to get it right on the day however and today it was Top Gun Tony Li. Tony can do no wrong at the moment and at the 1740 weigh produced a super basket considering the conditions of seven fish for 4 lb, 7 ¾ oz. to take first place and the “Barometer Trophy.” Tony’s top fly was a “Merkister Maid.”
Second spot went to another angler who has hit top form at the right moment. Greig Anderson had six trout for 3 lb, 14 ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Black Cat Muddler.”
In third place was Billy Reid with five for 3 lb, 6 ½ oz taken on his favourite “Claret Hedgehog.”
Other anglers among the points were Mark Sandison, Frank Watt, and Bobby Irvine.
This leaves the league table as follows:
Seven hardy flyfishers gathered at Mavis Grind last Saturday morning to fish the eighth round of the S.A.A. Fly Bank league. There was a great deal of tension in the air as six of those anglers present were still in the running for the league title itself. This is the closest run in to the championship in years. To quote Alex Ferguson “squeaky bum time,” or as third placed Tony Li observed – “A heavy weight title fight.” Although the banter was good natured enough competitors were obviously being very circumspect with their strategies for the day. To add some extra spice to the occasion, if indeed any were needed, the coveted “Barometer Trophy” was also up for grabs.
But what was this? No sign of competition stalwart Leslie Barclay! This is the first time that Barclay has missed a Fly Bank Competition in years. Various theories were expounded regarding Leslie’s absence becoming increasingly more fantastical as the clock ticked towards the 1015 start time.
Anglers had a wide choice of all the top lochs in Northmavine. However with “Old Jamaica” blazing down out of an azure blue sky and temperatures soaring to the high teens, the prospects for a successful day’s flyfishing were decidedly poor. Everyone knew that just putting a few fish in the basket over the course of the day might be enough to swing it.
The dire predictions were born out with nearly everyone struggling to tempt a trout in the blazing sun and stifling heat. The sight of anglers motoring between lochs as they abandoned plan A - and in most cases plan B as well - was indication of just how difficult the day was proving to be. “Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun!”
Someone always manages to get it right on the day however and today it was Top Gun Tony Li. Tony can do no wrong at the moment and at the 1740 weigh produced a super basket considering the conditions of seven fish for 4 lb, 7 ¾ oz. to take first place and the “Barometer Trophy.” Tony’s top fly was a “Merkister Maid.”
Second spot went to another angler who has hit top form at the right moment. Greig Anderson had six trout for 3 lb, 14 ¼ oz. taken mainly on a “Black Cat Muddler.”
In third place was Billy Reid with five for 3 lb, 6 ½ oz taken on his favourite “Claret Hedgehog.”
Other anglers among the points were Mark Sandison, Frank Watt, and Bobby Irvine.
This leaves the league table as follows:
Basically this means that with only one competition remaining only one of the top four can now be league champion. What an exciting end to the season! Everything will be decided on Saturday 10th August when the final league competition is fished on the West Side.
The Excursion Trophy will be fished on Saturday 3rd August. Check in is 0830 at the Laxo Junction.
The Excursion Trophy will be fished on Saturday 3rd August. Check in is 0830 at the Laxo Junction.
Westside 18-7-24
Eight flyfishers checked in at the Bixter graveyard carpark a week past Thursday for round seven of the S.A.A. fly bank league.
The perfect flyfishing weather of earlier in the day had degenerated into an evening of blazing sunshine. Flyfishing anathema! Worse still the Southerly breeze was due to fall away over the course of the next couple of hours to a flat calm. There was much pondering and shaking of heads as competitors were forced to reconsider tactics and strategies which they had been busy formulating all week.
It was good to see Leslie Barclay all present and correct – arriving in plenty time for the start of the competition and with all the equipment required for an evening practicing the “gentle art!”
Despite the awful flyfishing conditions anglers were as ever champing at the bit to get going at the 1805 kick off time.
Anglers had a choice of 17 lochs in the Wild West. This of course worked out at more than two lochs 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, six of the eight 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 assembled good baskets on a tricky evening and in what is traditionally a very difficult event.
It was a somewhat rushed weigh in due to one of the first midge hatches of the season.
Top of the pile was the on fire Greig Anderson who had made the correct decision to fish his favourite Mousavord. Despite initially getting his arithmetic wrong and claiming he just had seven trout, Anderson’s bag actually contained nine fish for 6 lb, 7 ¾ oz. This included the heaviest trout of the evening at 1 lb, ½ oz. Greigs top fly was a “Dennis the Menace Muddler.” Fantastic angling under very testing conditions.
Second place went to Westside expert Bobby Irvine with five fish from the unfashionable Lunga Water for 3 lb. 11 ¼ oz. Bobby had scored with a “Claret Muddler.”
In third spot was Tony Li who had five from Stump for 2 lb, 12 ½ oz. Tony’s killing fly was a “Foreman’s Favourite.”
Other anglers among the points were Frank Watt, Billy Reid, Mark Sandison, Ian Reid and Leslie Barclay.
This now leaves the league as follows:
Eight flyfishers checked in at the Bixter graveyard carpark a week past Thursday for round seven of the S.A.A. fly bank league.
The perfect flyfishing weather of earlier in the day had degenerated into an evening of blazing sunshine. Flyfishing anathema! Worse still the Southerly breeze was due to fall away over the course of the next couple of hours to a flat calm. There was much pondering and shaking of heads as competitors were forced to reconsider tactics and strategies which they had been busy formulating all week.
It was good to see Leslie Barclay all present and correct – arriving in plenty time for the start of the competition and with all the equipment required for an evening practicing the “gentle art!”
Despite the awful flyfishing conditions anglers were as ever champing at the bit to get going at the 1805 kick off time.
Anglers had a choice of 17 lochs in the Wild West. This of course worked out at more than two lochs 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, six of the eight 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 assembled good baskets on a tricky evening and in what is traditionally a very difficult event.
It was a somewhat rushed weigh in due to one of the first midge hatches of the season.
Top of the pile was the on fire Greig Anderson who had made the correct decision to fish his favourite Mousavord. Despite initially getting his arithmetic wrong and claiming he just had seven trout, Anderson’s bag actually contained nine fish for 6 lb, 7 ¾ oz. This included the heaviest trout of the evening at 1 lb, ½ oz. Greigs top fly was a “Dennis the Menace Muddler.” Fantastic angling under very testing conditions.
Second place went to Westside expert Bobby Irvine with five fish from the unfashionable Lunga Water for 3 lb. 11 ¼ oz. Bobby had scored with a “Claret Muddler.”
In third spot was Tony Li who had five from Stump for 2 lb, 12 ½ oz. Tony’s killing fly was a “Foreman’s Favourite.”
Other anglers among the points were Frank Watt, Billy Reid, Mark Sandison, Ian Reid and Leslie Barclay.
This now leaves the league as follows:
With two competitions remaining this is one of the most open run ins to the championship in living memory with any one of the top six anglers still capable of taking the league title.
The penultimate bank league competition will be fished in the North Mainland on Saturday 27th July with a 1015 check in at Mavis Grind.
The penultimate bank league competition will be fished in the North Mainland on Saturday 27th July with a 1015 check in at Mavis Grind.
S.A.A. v D.F.F.A. – 12th & 13th July 2024
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. Neil Clyne, Alex Donald, Robbie Hawkin, Toby Bracey, Michael Skerrit and Tony Chalmers 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 of preparation for the arduous two days competition which lay ahead.
The inter club event, now in its 26th year would be fished over the Friday and Saturday. A draw had been made on the D.F.F.A.’s arrival in the Shetland Anglers Association clubrooms 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 very different. Calm cyclonic winds on the Friday would be replaced by a continuing of the recent fresh northerly on Saturday. Maybe not ideal fly fishing conditions but no one was complaining and 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 the angling been difficult with some of Shetland’s top waters struggling to produce in the calm conditions. However as ever some anglers had used all their skill and expertise to put together a decent basket.
It was the Shetland team who had put their local knowledge to full advantage weighing in 49 fish for 31 lb, 6 ¾ oz., compared to the D.F.F.A.’s 22 fish for 12 lb, 11 oz.
Heaviest basket on the day came from Tony Li who had an excellent twelve for 7 lb 14 oz. Frank Watt had the heaviest fish at 1 lb, 7 ½ oz. Top Rod for the D.F.F.A. was Alex Donald with eight fish for 3 lb, 13 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 nearly 19 lb. However Neil Clyne 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. Most of the athletes seemed to have come through fairly unscathed and intact apart from the usual moans regarding sore backs and stiff necks. There had been some discussion between the different partners concerning each teams fitness programmes in preparation for the event. These plans had included some yoga and various stretching exercises as well as the usual stamina training.
The forecast was spot on as the two teams woke refreshed and ready on the Saturday morning with a force 3-4 Northerly and overcast. 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 and mental preparation been for the event? Today would sort out the wheat from the chaff!
When the two teams reconvened for the weigh in at a crowded Tingwall Shed it transpired that both teams had again found the angling tricky. The S.A.A weighed in 32 trout for 24 lb, 15 ¼ oz. while the D.F.F.A. had 22 fish for 15 lb, 5 ½ oz.
Frank Watt again had the heaviest on the day, a beauty going 1 lb, 12 oz which fell to a “Foam Daddy.” Frank could do wrong this weekend and he also had the heaviest basket of the day of ten fish for 8 lb, 15 ¾ oz. Top rod for the D.F.F.A. was again Alex Donald with eight for 4 lb, 14 ¾ oz.
Like yesterday a variety of lochs had produced fish.
This meant that the S.A.A.'s total for the two days was 81 fish for 56 lb, 6 ½ oz. while the D.F.F.A.'s was 44 for 28 lb, ½ 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 and presentation of trophies.
The beautiful Brian Hunter memorial trophy for the heaviest fish and the Viking Shield for the heaviest basket over the two days was presented to a delighted Frank Watt. Well done Frank. Top notch fly fishing over the two days.
The much coveted inter club trophy was then presented to the S.A.A.'s Captain – Whalsay sporting legend Bobby Irvine. This is a record 25th year that Bobby has represented Shetland in this competition. This is the 17th 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.
S.A.A. spokeperson Mark Sandison 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 Tony Li and Mrs Li for providing hospitality and an excellent dinner on the Friday evening and Greig Anderson for assisting at the weigh in. 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 26th meeting between the two associations
D.F.F.A. captain Neil Clyne then thanked the hosts for their hospitality and looked forward to seeing them in Caithness in 2025 promising that the D.F.F.A. would be a “leaner and meaner” team for the event.
The formalities now over, and with a guest appearances by S.A.A. legend 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 18th July with an 1805 check in at the Bixter Graveyard car park.
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Ronas Hill Trophy and D &D Doubles.
Last Saturday morning saw the annual Ronas hill trophy with the added spice of incorporating the D & D Doubles which has been won 7 times in a row by Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay , as the anglers gathered at the Colla firth pier before the 9 o'clock start news filtered through that the reigning Ronas hill and D & D double holder Bobby Irvine had failed a late fitness test after catching a bad virus through the week and wouldn't make the competition, you could see Barclays jaw dropping at this news, but after being consoled by his fellow anglers he soon got in the fishing zone before the draw was made for the pairings before the off, And some deadly looking partnerships emerged from the hat, Last years champion Leslie looked quite pleased when he was drawn with Ronas hill veteran and bank league leader Billy Reid, Mark Sandison punched the air in delight when he drew angling specialist Frank Watt, and because there were only 7 anglers due to Bobbys absence to make up the 4th team Mark got paired with Whalsays lethal trout machine Liam Whealan as well, when Barclay tried to lodge a complaint about having 2 chances Sandison just said its the luck of the draw with a smug grin, the last tasty looking partnership was Ian hotrod Reid and the bang in form trout slayer that is Greg Anderson, Anglers had the choice of over 150 lochs or Lochans to choose from, The weather was light NW winds and cloudy a perfect angling day this is the SAA iron man event where your body is pushed to its limits of endurance and one everybody want to win, then Before they knew it the starting horn blew, and the anglers marched off in various directions to all the myriad of lochs they had to choose from , the weigh in was at 20.00 so they had 11 hours to explore hike and fish through some of Shetlands last unspoiled Beautifull hill ranges ,, as the 7 exhausted weary anglers gathered at the Colla firth pier for the weigh in it became apparent that there was some quite big baskets of trout you could cut the tension with a knife as competition secretary Billy Reid set up the scales it was going to be a close call. but after much deliberating it was announced in 3rd place with an excellent basket of 16 fish for 9lb 4 oz was Billy Reid and in 2nd place with 21 fish was the unlucky Mark Sandison but in first place with a incredible basket of 17 fish for a 16lb 7 oz was none other than Ian hot rod Reid, ,then the D & D doubles was announced and in 3rd place with an excellent 31 fish for 20 lb 7 oz were mark and Frank and in 2nd place with a huge basket of 33 fish for 20lb 12 oz were the unlucky Mark and Liam but in first place with 28 fish for 24lb 14 oz and taking the D & D doubles trophy were none other than Ian Reid and Greg Anderson, well done boys on your huge success and a special mention to Ian on his double haul of trophy's on the day,, all unanimously agreed it had been a great days fishing before heading home for Radox baths,,, This weekend the SAA bank team take on the Dounreay fly fishers for the Annual intercounty match over 2 days in Shetland this year we wish the SAA team all the best....
L.B.
Last Saturday morning saw the annual Ronas hill trophy with the added spice of incorporating the D & D Doubles which has been won 7 times in a row by Bobby Irvine and Leslie Barclay , as the anglers gathered at the Colla firth pier before the 9 o'clock start news filtered through that the reigning Ronas hill and D & D double holder Bobby Irvine had failed a late fitness test after catching a bad virus through the week and wouldn't make the competition, you could see Barclays jaw dropping at this news, but after being consoled by his fellow anglers he soon got in the fishing zone before the draw was made for the pairings before the off, And some deadly looking partnerships emerged from the hat, Last years champion Leslie looked quite pleased when he was drawn with Ronas hill veteran and bank league leader Billy Reid, Mark Sandison punched the air in delight when he drew angling specialist Frank Watt, and because there were only 7 anglers due to Bobbys absence to make up the 4th team Mark got paired with Whalsays lethal trout machine Liam Whealan as well, when Barclay tried to lodge a complaint about having 2 chances Sandison just said its the luck of the draw with a smug grin, the last tasty looking partnership was Ian hotrod Reid and the bang in form trout slayer that is Greg Anderson, Anglers had the choice of over 150 lochs or Lochans to choose from, The weather was light NW winds and cloudy a perfect angling day this is the SAA iron man event where your body is pushed to its limits of endurance and one everybody want to win, then Before they knew it the starting horn blew, and the anglers marched off in various directions to all the myriad of lochs they had to choose from , the weigh in was at 20.00 so they had 11 hours to explore hike and fish through some of Shetlands last unspoiled Beautifull hill ranges ,, as the 7 exhausted weary anglers gathered at the Colla firth pier for the weigh in it became apparent that there was some quite big baskets of trout you could cut the tension with a knife as competition secretary Billy Reid set up the scales it was going to be a close call. but after much deliberating it was announced in 3rd place with an excellent basket of 16 fish for 9lb 4 oz was Billy Reid and in 2nd place with 21 fish was the unlucky Mark Sandison but in first place with a incredible basket of 17 fish for a 16lb 7 oz was none other than Ian hot rod Reid, ,then the D & D doubles was announced and in 3rd place with an excellent 31 fish for 20 lb 7 oz were mark and Frank and in 2nd place with a huge basket of 33 fish for 20lb 12 oz were the unlucky Mark and Liam but in first place with 28 fish for 24lb 14 oz and taking the D & D doubles trophy were none other than Ian Reid and Greg Anderson, well done boys on your huge success and a special mention to Ian on his double haul of trophy's on the day,, all unanimously agreed it had been a great days fishing before heading home for Radox baths,,, This weekend the SAA bank team take on the Dounreay fly fishers for the Annual intercounty match over 2 days in Shetland this year we wish the SAA team all the best....
L.B.
North Mainland 20-6-24
Midsummer and a fleet of vehicles, replete with rod racks and fly rods attached, parked up at Mavis Grind could only mean one thing. Yes – you’ve guessed it! - Round six of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League in North Mavine.
All the big guns were in evidence including Leslie Barclay who hadn’t been deterred by his disqualification last week. It was also great to see young Whalsay star Liam Wheelan attending his first bank league competition of the year.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the North mainland from The Loch of the Glen in Muckle Roe right up past Burraland, Punds Water and the mighty Eela Water to Lochend and West to Houlland and Gluss in Eshaness.
Understandably at such a crucial point in the league campaign anglers were being very circumspect about their intentions for the evening. Always up for a bit of gamesmanship Leslie Barclay tried to throw a couple of red herrings into the mix. He was fooling no one however as everybody present had seen and heard all Leslie’s tricks before.
The 1805 start saw anglers pretty much spread out over much of these venues with everyone hoping that their loch would be “on” on what was a fairly decent evening for practicing the gentle art of fly fishing. As ever it was perhaps Eela Water which received the majority of the early attention.
At the 2230 weigh in most anglers reported seeing a lot of action in the early part of the competition only for this to taper off as the evening progressed. As we’ve pointed out recently in this column Shetland is rich in wild brown trout fishing and the weigh in reflected this with the top four baskets all coming from different lochs.
After last week’s disqualification for lax time keeping Leslie Barclay had a close eye on his watch as Mark Sandison made it back to Mavis Grind with seconds to spare.
Taking first place was veteran Bobby Irvine with seven from Lochend for 5 lb, 11 ½ oz. His basket included the heaviest fish of the evening at 1 lb, 5 ¼ oz which fell to a “Clan Chief Sedgehog.”
Runner up was the ever consistent Greig Anderson who had eight from Eela Water for 4 lb, 9 oz. on a “Claret Muddler.” Third spot went to Mark Sandison with seven from Wester Water for 4 lb, 2 ½ oz taken mainly on that old favourite, the “Soldier Palmer.”
Other anglers claiming points were Billy Reid, Frank Watt, Tony Li, Liam Wheelan, Ian Reid, Leslie Barclay and Harry Sandison.
With three league competitions still to fish this leaves the Bank League as follows:
Midsummer and a fleet of vehicles, replete with rod racks and fly rods attached, parked up at Mavis Grind could only mean one thing. Yes – you’ve guessed it! - Round six of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League in North Mavine.
All the big guns were in evidence including Leslie Barclay who hadn’t been deterred by his disqualification last week. It was also great to see young Whalsay star Liam Wheelan attending his first bank league competition of the year.
Competitors had a choice of all the main lochs in the North mainland from The Loch of the Glen in Muckle Roe right up past Burraland, Punds Water and the mighty Eela Water to Lochend and West to Houlland and Gluss in Eshaness.
Understandably at such a crucial point in the league campaign anglers were being very circumspect about their intentions for the evening. Always up for a bit of gamesmanship Leslie Barclay tried to throw a couple of red herrings into the mix. He was fooling no one however as everybody present had seen and heard all Leslie’s tricks before.
The 1805 start saw anglers pretty much spread out over much of these venues with everyone hoping that their loch would be “on” on what was a fairly decent evening for practicing the gentle art of fly fishing. As ever it was perhaps Eela Water which received the majority of the early attention.
At the 2230 weigh in most anglers reported seeing a lot of action in the early part of the competition only for this to taper off as the evening progressed. As we’ve pointed out recently in this column Shetland is rich in wild brown trout fishing and the weigh in reflected this with the top four baskets all coming from different lochs.
After last week’s disqualification for lax time keeping Leslie Barclay had a close eye on his watch as Mark Sandison made it back to Mavis Grind with seconds to spare.
Taking first place was veteran Bobby Irvine with seven from Lochend for 5 lb, 11 ½ oz. His basket included the heaviest fish of the evening at 1 lb, 5 ¼ oz which fell to a “Clan Chief Sedgehog.”
Runner up was the ever consistent Greig Anderson who had eight from Eela Water for 4 lb, 9 oz. on a “Claret Muddler.” Third spot went to Mark Sandison with seven from Wester Water for 4 lb, 2 ½ oz taken mainly on that old favourite, the “Soldier Palmer.”
Other anglers claiming points were Billy Reid, Frank Watt, Tony Li, Liam Wheelan, Ian Reid, Leslie Barclay and Harry Sandison.
With three league competitions still to fish this leaves the Bank League as follows:
The Bank League takes a break now during which time the annual intercountry between the S.A.A. and the Dounreay Flyfishing Association will be fished on the Shetland lochs. We wish our boys all the best for this event.
Competition junkies needn’t despair however competitors as the annual Ronas Hill and D & D Doubles competition will be fished on Saturday 6th July with a 0900 check in at Collafirth Pier. Remember your maps and compasses!
Competition junkies needn’t despair however competitors as the annual Ronas Hill and D & D Doubles competition will be fished on Saturday 6th July with a 0900 check in at Collafirth Pier. Remember your maps and compasses!
Clousta Road 13-6-24 & Tulloch Mid summer Shield.
For the second Thursday evening running flyfishers assembled at the Bixter Graveyard carpark for an angling competition.
Anglers would be competing for round four of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League so understandably there was a great deal of excitement and anticipation in the air with everyone desperate for league points. Imagine the surprise then when some of the competitors encountered the combative Tony Li motoring in the opposite direction. It transpired that Li had rocked up at the car park only to discover that he had left his waders at home! A quick phone call to his understanding but long suffering wife ensured that a rendezvous was arranged in Whiteness to deliver the missing waders. Behind every successful flyfisherman is a good woman! This led to a discussion in the car park as to who else’s partners would have been so accommodating!
It was good to see competition secretary Billy Reid present and celebrating his 54th Birthday. Billy had obviously been listening to Leslie Barclay’s advice last week concerning the correct facial hair look for the fashionable fly fisherman!
It was also great to see James Henry back in his waders and ready for action again after a long lay off due to injury.
And speaking of injury the award for toughest angler of the day went to Ian Reid who was struggling with a bad back. Such is Ian’s dedication to the cause however that he wasn’t going to let this minor inconvenience put him off as he did his stretching execises in the car park. Many younger athletes could learn a thing or two from Ian’s “never say die” Churchillian attitude!
As the 1805 start time crept nearer there were a few anxious glances back up the road. Where was the indomitable Leslie Barclay? With minutes to spare however and with squeal of tyres and a screech of brakes Barclay skidded into the car park! He had mistimed his run from Voe. Everyone could now relax and we were good to go.
Anglers had a choice of lochs in the Clousta Road area. On paper at least this should be some of the most productive fly fishing waters in Shetland and so hopes were high for a successful evening. As has been pointed out in this column before however flyfishing competitions aren’t fished on paper!
Most of the early effort was probably focused on the mighty Vaara. However the tell tale signs of competitors moving around was a sure sign that the angling was proving to be difficult. The situation wasn’t helped with the temperatures plummeting to a chilly seven degrees.
As everyone reconvened for the 1030 weigh in it transpired that it had indeed been a difficult evening with anglers struggling to put a few fish in their baskets.
Taking first place was Billy Reid with a super basket considering the conditions of four fish for 5 lb, 3 ¼ oz. from the oft overlooked Kirkhouse. Billy’s basket contained a specimen of 2 lb, 7 ¼ oz. which fell to a “Claret Hedgehog.” In a statement to the press Billy said that “It was the best Birthday present he could have hoped for!”
Runner up was a clearly disappointed Tony Li who obviously felt that he was going to shade a tight weigh in until Billy produced his monster. Tony had five trout from Clings Water for 3 lb, 11 ¾ oz taken on a “Peach Muddler.”
In third place was the ever consistent Greig Anderson with five fish from Vaara for 3 lb. Greig’s top fly was an “Andy Pandy.”
Other successful anglers were Bobby Irvine, Mark Sandison, Leslie Barclay, Frank Watt, Ian Reid and James Henry.
Competitions are coming thick and fast now. Competitors only had 36 hours to dry off their tackle and collect their thoughts before they were assembling again at the Tingwall Boat shed on Saturday morning to fish for the Tulloch Midsummer Shield and round five of the Bank League.
There was a definite whiff of optimism in the air in the boat shed carpark. A fresh breeze, cloud cover and rising temperatures promised a good trooty day.
Anglers had a choice of all the top lochs on the Shetland Mainland from Spiggie in the South up through Asta and Tingwall to the likes of Eela Water and Burraland in the North and Clings Water and Vaara in the Wild West. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be critical to success. There would be little room for error.
After a full on day’s fly fishing it turned out that it was Billy Reid and Frank Watt who had made the correct decision by electing to stay in Tingwall.
Billy took first place and the Tulloch Shield with a brilliant basket of 19 trout for 12 lb, 2 ¼ oz. fishing a cast of “Hedgehogs.”
Close runner up was Frank who had an excellent 17 for 11 lb, 13 oz taken mainly on a Norski Lad.
In third spot was Tony Li who had nine from Vaara for 5 lb, 15 ¼ oz. Tony’s top fly was “Gilbert’s Peach Muddler.”
This is fantastic angling by any measure and further emphasizes the point made in this column last week regarding the health of our lochs.
Other anglers gaining points were Harry Sandison, Mark Sandison, Ian Reid and Bobby Irvine.
Billy Reid has chosen exactly the right time to hit top form and his back to back victories sees him soaring to the top of the league.
For the second Thursday evening running flyfishers assembled at the Bixter Graveyard carpark for an angling competition.
Anglers would be competing for round four of the S.A.A. Fly Bank League so understandably there was a great deal of excitement and anticipation in the air with everyone desperate for league points. Imagine the surprise then when some of the competitors encountered the combative Tony Li motoring in the opposite direction. It transpired that Li had rocked up at the car park only to discover that he had left his waders at home! A quick phone call to his understanding but long suffering wife ensured that a rendezvous was arranged in Whiteness to deliver the missing waders. Behind every successful flyfisherman is a good woman! This led to a discussion in the car park as to who else’s partners would have been so accommodating!
It was good to see competition secretary Billy Reid present and celebrating his 54th Birthday. Billy had obviously been listening to Leslie Barclay’s advice last week concerning the correct facial hair look for the fashionable fly fisherman!
It was also great to see James Henry back in his waders and ready for action again after a long lay off due to injury.
And speaking of injury the award for toughest angler of the day went to Ian Reid who was struggling with a bad back. Such is Ian’s dedication to the cause however that he wasn’t going to let this minor inconvenience put him off as he did his stretching execises in the car park. Many younger athletes could learn a thing or two from Ian’s “never say die” Churchillian attitude!
As the 1805 start time crept nearer there were a few anxious glances back up the road. Where was the indomitable Leslie Barclay? With minutes to spare however and with squeal of tyres and a screech of brakes Barclay skidded into the car park! He had mistimed his run from Voe. Everyone could now relax and we were good to go.
Anglers had a choice of lochs in the Clousta Road area. On paper at least this should be some of the most productive fly fishing waters in Shetland and so hopes were high for a successful evening. As has been pointed out in this column before however flyfishing competitions aren’t fished on paper!
Most of the early effort was probably focused on the mighty Vaara. However the tell tale signs of competitors moving around was a sure sign that the angling was proving to be difficult. The situation wasn’t helped with the temperatures plummeting to a chilly seven degrees.
As everyone reconvened for the 1030 weigh in it transpired that it had indeed been a difficult evening with anglers struggling to put a few fish in their baskets.
Taking first place was Billy Reid with a super basket considering the conditions of four fish for 5 lb, 3 ¼ oz. from the oft overlooked Kirkhouse. Billy’s basket contained a specimen of 2 lb, 7 ¼ oz. which fell to a “Claret Hedgehog.” In a statement to the press Billy said that “It was the best Birthday present he could have hoped for!”
Runner up was a clearly disappointed Tony Li who obviously felt that he was going to shade a tight weigh in until Billy produced his monster. Tony had five trout from Clings Water for 3 lb, 11 ¾ oz taken on a “Peach Muddler.”
In third place was the ever consistent Greig Anderson with five fish from Vaara for 3 lb. Greig’s top fly was an “Andy Pandy.”
Other successful anglers were Bobby Irvine, Mark Sandison, Leslie Barclay, Frank Watt, Ian Reid and James Henry.
Competitions are coming thick and fast now. Competitors only had 36 hours to dry off their tackle and collect their thoughts before they were assembling again at the Tingwall Boat shed on Saturday morning to fish for the Tulloch Midsummer Shield and round five of the Bank League.
There was a definite whiff of optimism in the air in the boat shed carpark. A fresh breeze, cloud cover and rising temperatures promised a good trooty day.
Anglers had a choice of all the top lochs on the Shetland Mainland from Spiggie in the South up through Asta and Tingwall to the likes of Eela Water and Burraland in the North and Clings Water and Vaara in the Wild West. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be critical to success. There would be little room for error.
After a full on day’s fly fishing it turned out that it was Billy Reid and Frank Watt who had made the correct decision by electing to stay in Tingwall.
Billy took first place and the Tulloch Shield with a brilliant basket of 19 trout for 12 lb, 2 ¼ oz. fishing a cast of “Hedgehogs.”
Close runner up was Frank who had an excellent 17 for 11 lb, 13 oz taken mainly on a Norski Lad.
In third spot was Tony Li who had nine from Vaara for 5 lb, 15 ¼ oz. Tony’s top fly was “Gilbert’s Peach Muddler.”
This is fantastic angling by any measure and further emphasizes the point made in this column last week regarding the health of our lochs.
Other anglers gaining points were Harry Sandison, Mark Sandison, Ian Reid and Bobby Irvine.
Billy Reid has chosen exactly the right time to hit top form and his back to back victories sees him soaring to the top of the league.
There was an uncomfortable moment in the Tingwall shed when Leslie Barclay skidded into the car park two minutes late. Under the strict S.A.A. competition rules this is an instant disqualification – but who was going to break the unpleasant news to the big man? It was quickly decided that Mark Sandison should be the man for the job! Sandison reluctantly agreed although felt that he had been hung out to dry somewhat by his comarades! Sandison made sure that Billy Reid was between himself and Barclay as Barclay entered the shed and Sandison announced his disqualification. Being the great sportsman that he is however Leslie took it on the chin and everyone breathed a sigh of relief!
In a tight schedule the next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 20th June with an 1805 check in at Mavis Grind. The Bank League then takes a break during which time the annual intercountry between the S.A.A. and the Dounreay Flyfishing Association will be fished on the Shetland lochs. We wish our boys all the best for this event.
Competitors are also reminded that the annual Ronas Hill and D & D Doubles competition will be fished on Saturday 6th July with a 0900 check in at Collafirth Pier. Remember your maps and compasses!
In a tight schedule the next Bank League competition takes place on Thursday 20th June with an 1805 check in at Mavis Grind. The Bank League then takes a break during which time the annual intercountry between the S.A.A. and the Dounreay Flyfishing Association will be fished on the Shetland lochs. We wish our boys all the best for this event.
Competitors are also reminded that the annual Ronas Hill and D & D Doubles competition will be fished on Saturday 6th July with a 0900 check in at Collafirth Pier. Remember your maps and compasses!
Westside 6-6-24
The first Thursday evening S.A.A. fly bank league competition of the year is usually a sure sign that the Shetland summer has arrived. However as fly fishers gathered at the Bixter Graveyard carpark last Thursday evening to fish the West side lochs one could have been forgiven for thinking that it was an evening in April with a South Westerly gale and temperatures struggling to reach double figures. Long drawers and Merino base layers were back in evidence again with most competitors thinking they had stored these away for the summer.
Very conspicuous by his absence was league leader Tony Li who had opted to spend early June in the more sunny, ambient and balmy climate of Italy. Tonight’s competition then would provide an excellent opportunity for a number of anglers to grab pole position in the league.
It was also great to see Mathew Obern checking in for his second ever bank fly league competition. This young man’s enthusiasm for the sport is infectious and put a spring in the step of some of the more experienced competitors who had been looking a bit downcast at having to face an evening’s flyfishing in the chilly and windy conditions.
When a rough and ready Leslie Barclay rocked up a debate ensued as to what style of facial hair the well appointed fly fisherman should be sporting. Despite Barclay’s claim that his designer stubble was the de rigueur look to go for, it was obviously Mark Sandison who carried the day with his neatly groomed and manicured goatee. As the old adage goes, “Style never goes out of fashion!”
The 1805 kick off soon came around as anglers left the car park in a cloud of dust. Competitors had a wide choice of waters in the Wild West of Shetland from Stump in Skeld, the lochs at West Burrafirth and right along the A971 to Mousavord at Sandness. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success with there being very little time available to implement a “Plan B.”
With so many lochs on offer most anglers found they had a water completely to themselves for the evening.
After a hard session’s fly fishing in gales and wintry squalls competitors reconvened at 2230 for the weigh in.
Taking first place was Mark Sandison with seven fish from the fashionable Stump for 6lb, 14oz. taken mainly on a “Straggle Fritz Clan Chief Muddler.” Sandison had a lucky heavy fish at 1lb, 14 ¼ oz with only half an hour left to push the unlucky Bobby Irvine into second spot.
Bobby had an amazing basket of 12 trout from the unfashionable Longa Water for 6lb, 10 ¾ oz. Irvine’s killing fly was a “Soldier Palmer Muddler.”
Coming in third and fishing the even more unfashionable Mousavord was Greig Anderson. Greig’s basket contained seven fish for 4 lb, 15 oz. taken mainly on an “Andy Pandy Muddler.”
Other successful anglers were Billy Reid, Ian Reid and Frank Watt. Matthew Obern caught his first fish at an S.A.A. competition but unfortunately it was a fraction under the statutory ten inches so couldn’t be weighed in. Taking early baths were Harry Sandison and Leslie Barclay who had gone home to style his goatee!
It has to be pointed out that in other years any one of the top five baskets would have been easily good enough to win this competition. This is a sign of just how healthy our lochs are and the excellent quality of wild brown trout fishing we have here in these islands.
With three competitions having been fished the league is as follows:
The first Thursday evening S.A.A. fly bank league competition of the year is usually a sure sign that the Shetland summer has arrived. However as fly fishers gathered at the Bixter Graveyard carpark last Thursday evening to fish the West side lochs one could have been forgiven for thinking that it was an evening in April with a South Westerly gale and temperatures struggling to reach double figures. Long drawers and Merino base layers were back in evidence again with most competitors thinking they had stored these away for the summer.
Very conspicuous by his absence was league leader Tony Li who had opted to spend early June in the more sunny, ambient and balmy climate of Italy. Tonight’s competition then would provide an excellent opportunity for a number of anglers to grab pole position in the league.
It was also great to see Mathew Obern checking in for his second ever bank fly league competition. This young man’s enthusiasm for the sport is infectious and put a spring in the step of some of the more experienced competitors who had been looking a bit downcast at having to face an evening’s flyfishing in the chilly and windy conditions.
When a rough and ready Leslie Barclay rocked up a debate ensued as to what style of facial hair the well appointed fly fisherman should be sporting. Despite Barclay’s claim that his designer stubble was the de rigueur look to go for, it was obviously Mark Sandison who carried the day with his neatly groomed and manicured goatee. As the old adage goes, “Style never goes out of fashion!”
The 1805 kick off soon came around as anglers left the car park in a cloud of dust. Competitors had a wide choice of waters in the Wild West of Shetland from Stump in Skeld, the lochs at West Burrafirth and right along the A971 to Mousavord at Sandness. As ever making the correct choice of venue would be crucial to success with there being very little time available to implement a “Plan B.”
With so many lochs on offer most anglers found they had a water completely to themselves for the evening.
After a hard session’s fly fishing in gales and wintry squalls competitors reconvened at 2230 for the weigh in.
Taking first place was Mark Sandison with seven fish from the fashionable Stump for 6lb, 14oz. taken mainly on a “Straggle Fritz Clan Chief Muddler.” Sandison had a lucky heavy fish at 1lb, 14 ¼ oz with only half an hour left to push the unlucky Bobby Irvine into second spot.
Bobby had an amazing basket of 12 trout from the unfashionable Longa Water for 6lb, 10 ¾ oz. Irvine’s killing fly was a “Soldier Palmer Muddler.”
Coming in third and fishing the even more unfashionable Mousavord was Greig Anderson. Greig’s basket contained seven fish for 4 lb, 15 oz. taken mainly on an “Andy Pandy Muddler.”
Other successful anglers were Billy Reid, Ian Reid and Frank Watt. Matthew Obern caught his first fish at an S.A.A. competition but unfortunately it was a fraction under the statutory ten inches so couldn’t be weighed in. Taking early baths were Harry Sandison and Leslie Barclay who had gone home to style his goatee!
It has to be pointed out that in other years any one of the top five baskets would have been easily good enough to win this competition. This is a sign of just how healthy our lochs are and the excellent quality of wild brown trout fishing we have here in these islands.
With three competitions having been fished the league is as follows:
We come to a pivotal point in the league now with competitions coming thick and fast. The next meet is on Thursday 13th June with an 1805 check in again at the Bixter Grave yard car park. This is closely followed by the ever popular “Tulloch Midsummer Shield” on Saturday 15th June with a 1015 start from the Tingwall Shed.
Will competitors please also note that following a committee meeting the decision was made to combine the Ronas Hill Trophy and the D & D doubles. This will be fished on Saturday 6th July. Full details on the S.A.A. website: http://www.shetlandtrout.co.uk/bank-competitions-2024.html
Finally special mention must go to the S.A.A. boat team of Peter Laurenson, Stephen Leask, Stephen Breivik, Darren Laurenson, Frank Watt and Sean McCaffrey (capt.) who had an historic away win in Orkney recently. This is the first time in 47 years that a Shetland boat team has won away in Orkney! Well done boys!
Will competitors please also note that following a committee meeting the decision was made to combine the Ronas Hill Trophy and the D & D doubles. This will be fished on Saturday 6th July. Full details on the S.A.A. website: http://www.shetlandtrout.co.uk/bank-competitions-2024.html
Finally special mention must go to the S.A.A. boat team of Peter Laurenson, Stephen Leask, Stephen Breivik, Darren Laurenson, Frank Watt and Sean McCaffrey (capt.) who had an historic away win in Orkney recently. This is the first time in 47 years that a Shetland boat team has won away in Orkney! Well done boys!
South Mainland 11-5-24 (Antares Trophy)
Flyfishers gathered at the Spiggie Loch car park last Saturday morning to fish round two of the S.A.A. fly bank league. As well as valuable league points competitors would also be fishing for the Antares trophy.
It was great to see young Whalsay man John Wishart donning his waders and attending his first bank league competition for a while.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the force of nature that is Leslie Barclay. As we went to press however Barclay had moved quickly to quell any rumours that he had resurrected his football career!
It was a morning of blazing sunshine and the forecast was predicting more of the same for the rest of the day. Fly fishing anathema! As Skerries turned Burra man Greig Anderson pointed out in typical understated fashion, “It’s going to be challenging!”
Anglers had a choice of most of the major waters in the South Mainland but of course these are very much the poor relations to the flagship Loch of Spiggie. It was Spiggie where everyone concentrated their initial efforts at the 1015 kick off.
After a couple of hours flyfishing the sight of anglers hiking up and down the banks in search of fish bore out Anderson’s gloomy prediction.
A long day with “Old Jamaica” blazing down from the sky meant there were a few red faces at the 1740 weigh in.
As ever despite the difficult conditions some anglers had cracked it and found the correct tactics and more importantly the areas where fish were holding.
Foremost among these was Spiggie Specialist Frank Watt. Frank who took first place and the Antares Trophy with a superb basket of 17 trout for 13 lb, 3 oz. A great average! He also had the heaviest fish of the day. A beauty going 1 lb, 15 ¼ oz. Frank had scored with a sinking line and “Cormorants.”
In second spot was Mark Sandison with twelve fish for 7 lb, 13 ¾ oz and third place went to Tony Li, also with twelve, for 7 lb, 6 ¼ oz. Sandison’s top fly was an “Olive Nymph” while Tony had caught on a “White Cat.”
Other successful anglers were Greig Anderson, Bobby Irvine, Billy Reid, Ian Reid and John Wishart.
With two out of the nine competitions having been fished the league table is as follows:
Flyfishers gathered at the Spiggie Loch car park last Saturday morning to fish round two of the S.A.A. fly bank league. As well as valuable league points competitors would also be fishing for the Antares trophy.
It was great to see young Whalsay man John Wishart donning his waders and attending his first bank league competition for a while.
Very conspicuous by his absence was the force of nature that is Leslie Barclay. As we went to press however Barclay had moved quickly to quell any rumours that he had resurrected his football career!
It was a morning of blazing sunshine and the forecast was predicting more of the same for the rest of the day. Fly fishing anathema! As Skerries turned Burra man Greig Anderson pointed out in typical understated fashion, “It’s going to be challenging!”
Anglers had a choice of most of the major waters in the South Mainland but of course these are very much the poor relations to the flagship Loch of Spiggie. It was Spiggie where everyone concentrated their initial efforts at the 1015 kick off.
After a couple of hours flyfishing the sight of anglers hiking up and down the banks in search of fish bore out Anderson’s gloomy prediction.
A long day with “Old Jamaica” blazing down from the sky meant there were a few red faces at the 1740 weigh in.
As ever despite the difficult conditions some anglers had cracked it and found the correct tactics and more importantly the areas where fish were holding.
Foremost among these was Spiggie Specialist Frank Watt. Frank who took first place and the Antares Trophy with a superb basket of 17 trout for 13 lb, 3 oz. A great average! He also had the heaviest fish of the day. A beauty going 1 lb, 15 ¼ oz. Frank had scored with a sinking line and “Cormorants.”
In second spot was Mark Sandison with twelve fish for 7 lb, 13 ¾ oz and third place went to Tony Li, also with twelve, for 7 lb, 6 ¼ oz. Sandison’s top fly was an “Olive Nymph” while Tony had caught on a “White Cat.”
Other successful anglers were Greig Anderson, Bobby Irvine, Billy Reid, Ian Reid and John Wishart.
With two out of the nine competitions having been fished the league table is as follows:
It was great to see young Matthew Obern at the weigh in attending his first fly competition.
Remember this name. You heard it here first!
In other news the annual Benston Pottinger trophy was won by Mark Sandison on the previous Thursday evening with Sean McCaffrey a close second.
The next Bank League competition is Thursday 6th June when competitors will turn their attention to the West Side. Check in is 1805 at the Bixter Graveyard car park.
Remember this name. You heard it here first!
In other news the annual Benston Pottinger trophy was won by Mark Sandison on the previous Thursday evening with Sean McCaffrey a close second.
The next Bank League competition is Thursday 6th June when competitors will turn their attention to the West Side. Check in is 1805 at the Bixter Graveyard car park.
Central Mainland & Shetland Times Trophy 20-4-24
It was no surprise that after the recent Arctic blast that only seven anglers braved the elements to turn out last Saturday for the first Shetland Anglers Association bank league competition of the season.
Competitors were squeezed into as much layers as possible – woolly hats and socks, wirsit ganzies, merino base layers, neoprene waders etc – as they huddled inside the Tingwall boatshed. As ever there was a bit of accessory envy as Tony Li eyed up a snug Mark Sandison in his new fleece lined joggers.
Tony didn’t have long to covet his neighbours trousers however as it was pointed out to him by competition secretary Billy Reid that he hadn’t paid his S.A.A. membership for the year. This would mean that Li would be disqualified from the competition before he even got started! There was a degree of panic and pocket panic from the Lerwick businessman as he searched for his elusive wallet. Luckily flyfishers are a tightknit group and an anonymous donor stepped in to cover Tony’s membership and ensure that everyone had the pleasure of seeing this finely tuned athlete compete in the opening event of the season.
It was great to see the young John Wishart and the more experienced Steven Leask competing in their first bank league competition for a while. There were various big hitters missing of course. Foremost on this list due to incapacitation and injury were James Henry and Harry Sandison. This led to a lengthy discussion in the boatshed about everyone’s various ailments and medical experiences. The list and stories seem to get longer by the year. Anyway everyone was unanimous in wishing James and Harry a speedy recovery.
Despite the Baltic conditions there was a definite air of optimism among the assembled crew. The Northerly gale of the previous day had died away and the forecast was for a relatively pleasant afternoon.
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 on offer there was also the added incentive of the beautiful “Shetland Times Trophy” being up for grabs.
Despite having 14 lochs to choose from old adversaries Tony Li, 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 give way to his younger compatriots and a potentially powder keg situation was averted!
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 some good baskets in evidence.
Taking first place and the Shetland Times trophy was Tony Li with eight trout for 7 lb, 3 oz. A super average. Tony’s top fly was a “Christmas Tree.”
Runner up was Billy Reid with nine fish for 6 lb, ¾ oz. taken mainly on an “Orange Half Hog.” Billy’s bag also contained the heaviest fish of the day at 1 lb, 8 ¼ oz.
Both anglers had made the astute tactical decision half way through the day of moving to the underperforming Tingwall.
Squeezed into third place by an ounce was Bobby Irvine who had elected to fish the unfashionable Griesta. Bobby’s basket contained eight fish for 6 lb, 5 oz. and he also had a big fish going 1 lb, 8 oz. Bobby had scored with that old favourite the “Soldier Palmer.”
Other successful anglers were Mark Sandison and Leslie Barclay.
John and Steven had retired through the afternoon for an early bath and no one could blame them.
The next bank competition is the ever popular “Pottinger Benston Trophy” which will be held on Thursday 9th May with an 1805 check in at the Benston Boat Park. This is closely followed by the “Spiggie” competition where flyfishers will also be competing for the “Antares Trophy.” This takes place on Saturday 11th May with a check in at the Spiggie Boat Park. Let’s hope it’s warmed up a bit by then!
It was no surprise that after the recent Arctic blast that only seven anglers braved the elements to turn out last Saturday for the first Shetland Anglers Association bank league competition of the season.
Competitors were squeezed into as much layers as possible – woolly hats and socks, wirsit ganzies, merino base layers, neoprene waders etc – as they huddled inside the Tingwall boatshed. As ever there was a bit of accessory envy as Tony Li eyed up a snug Mark Sandison in his new fleece lined joggers.
Tony didn’t have long to covet his neighbours trousers however as it was pointed out to him by competition secretary Billy Reid that he hadn’t paid his S.A.A. membership for the year. This would mean that Li would be disqualified from the competition before he even got started! There was a degree of panic and pocket panic from the Lerwick businessman as he searched for his elusive wallet. Luckily flyfishers are a tightknit group and an anonymous donor stepped in to cover Tony’s membership and ensure that everyone had the pleasure of seeing this finely tuned athlete compete in the opening event of the season.
It was great to see the young John Wishart and the more experienced Steven Leask competing in their first bank league competition for a while. There were various big hitters missing of course. Foremost on this list due to incapacitation and injury were James Henry and Harry Sandison. This led to a lengthy discussion in the boatshed about everyone’s various ailments and medical experiences. The list and stories seem to get longer by the year. Anyway everyone was unanimous in wishing James and Harry a speedy recovery.
Despite the Baltic conditions there was a definite air of optimism among the assembled crew. The Northerly gale of the previous day had died away and the forecast was for a relatively pleasant afternoon.
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 on offer there was also the added incentive of the beautiful “Shetland Times Trophy” being up for grabs.
Despite having 14 lochs to choose from old adversaries Tony Li, 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 give way to his younger compatriots and a potentially powder keg situation was averted!
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 some good baskets in evidence.
Taking first place and the Shetland Times trophy was Tony Li with eight trout for 7 lb, 3 oz. A super average. Tony’s top fly was a “Christmas Tree.”
Runner up was Billy Reid with nine fish for 6 lb, ¾ oz. taken mainly on an “Orange Half Hog.” Billy’s bag also contained the heaviest fish of the day at 1 lb, 8 ¼ oz.
Both anglers had made the astute tactical decision half way through the day of moving to the underperforming Tingwall.
Squeezed into third place by an ounce was Bobby Irvine who had elected to fish the unfashionable Griesta. Bobby’s basket contained eight fish for 6 lb, 5 oz. and he also had a big fish going 1 lb, 8 oz. Bobby had scored with that old favourite the “Soldier Palmer.”
Other successful anglers were Mark Sandison and Leslie Barclay.
John and Steven had retired through the afternoon for an early bath and no one could blame them.
The next bank competition is the ever popular “Pottinger Benston Trophy” which will be held on Thursday 9th May with an 1805 check in at the Benston Boat Park. This is closely followed by the “Spiggie” competition where flyfishers will also be competing for the “Antares Trophy.” This takes place on Saturday 11th May with a check in at the Spiggie Boat Park. Let’s hope it’s warmed up a bit by then!