Finishing its second year with a diverse and impressive range of catches, it was Fergus Kelly who emerged as the winner of the 2014 ‘Fly for Coarse’ competition. His spectacular metre long grass carp, taken on an Adams dry fly, was narrowly awarded top spot by a panel of judges, including Matt Hayes and John Bailey.
“It was another close run thing, a very tough decision,” said competition organizer Dom Garnett. “There were three or four really special catches that could have been the outright winner, but we could only pick one in the end.”
In what proved to be an especially good year for predator fly fishing, second place honours were shared between Sam Edmonds’ thirty-pound Grafham pike and a cracking reservoir perch of 4lb 2oz caught by Matt Roberts.
Meanwhile, the top ten ‘highly commended’ list of prize winners included a real mix of catches, including further specimen perch, chub and genuine surprises including good-sized dace, rudd, tench and even a rare bitterling. European entries also included rarities such as ide, asp and fly-caught barbel.
“It’s great to see anglers breaking the mould,” said supporter and avid fly angler Matt Hayes. “But this year I’m hoping we see even more new venues and ideas. The key message to the troops is to get out there and try it, use your imagination!”
With a continued rise in the number of anglers fly fishing for coarse species, hopes are high for further surprises in 2015. “Like lure fishing, this is no longer an eccentric or ‘niche’ method,” enthused Dom Garnett. “It’s simple, excellent fun and it can add a whole new dimension to your fishing.”
The current winner receives a prize of over £100 worth of Turrall fly fishing goodies, including their complete range of ‘Flies for Coarse Fish’.
For further details and news on the 2015 competition click HERE
