Hear from our youngest Fishing for Schools Ambassador, Jacob Lewis

Introduction by Charles Jardine:

I am deeply privileged to fish with, work with and come to know many young people who are truly inspirational. I learn from each one and find that they all have that wonderful ability to 'ground you'. But few that I know are quite as passionate about their sport as our latest, and youngest, ambassadors.  

In Jacob and Lydia, we have beacons that will shine brightly in the future to come. I will introduce Lydia later this year, but this month I proudly present Jacob Lewis, one the finest young fly fishers – be in sewin, salmon or trout - that I know.  Jacob, welcome, and thank you for all that you have done to help Fishing for Schools.

My fly fishing journey began at the early age of four when my dad started taking me along on his fishing trips. I was hooked (pun intended) from the start.  

I caught my first trout at four years old, which fired my enthusiasm to catch a sea trout which I happily hooked about a year later. The more I went fishing the more addicted I got to the sport, which I’m sure a lot of anglers can relate to.  

My first salmon on the fly was caught at age ten followed by numerous sea trout and salmon.  

I decided on a new challenge, Loch style trout fishing drifting on a boat. I spent numerous hours practicing this method at Chew Valley Lake in Bristol amongst other beautiful venues. I have been very lucky to have had the help and advice of some of Wales’ finest anglers. 

In 2023 I qualified to represent the Welsh Youth fly fishing team. In July 2024 I earned my first cap for Wales with the international held at Grafham Water, England. I once again entered the trials for the national team in 2024 and I was lucky enough to qualify again to represent Wales at The Lake of Menteith, Scotland. I am very, very proud that I was selected to captain the Welsh team, a group of exceptional anglers and young men, at the international which is my proudest moment to date.

I am very honoured and privileged to become the first ever Youth Fishing for Schools Ambassador, helping Charles Jardine, an inspiration to myself and the world of fly fishing, raising awareness for our sport. I hope to inspire more young people to begin fishing in the UK and love it as much as I do.  

I strongly believe fishing teaches us patience, willpower and resilience and keeps our minds occupied in a good way which is exactly what the younger generation needs today. Whilst doing my GCSEs, fishing gave me an escape from the stress of revision and computer screens and the fresh air cleared my mind and helped me refocus. Also nothing excites you more and makes you feel prouder than hooking your first fish.