The pinnacle of most sports, I suspect, is to represent your country.
I am not sure it truly matters whether that sport is cricket, football or, indeed in this case, angling.
One could argue of course that angling should not be a competition. Too many variables, too many ethical questions.
I would counter this with any other sport in this area; horse racing being an absolutely perfect indicator of a harnessing of human skill – the jockey - over a variable, the horse.
There are cases, naturally to be made, for and against, but one thing remains; the skill required to reach international heights is considerable. Irrespective.
So, what has any of this to do with Fishing for Schools?
Well…
Having had the privilege and distinct honour of being asked to manage both (weirdly) the English Youth Fly Fishing Team and more recently, the Welsh Youth Fly Fishing team. Whilst this might seem to be the ultimate in divided loyalties: it’s not. Having married a Welsh girl, living in Wales and been adopted by Cymru, I feel entirely relaxed on about my current status!
But the importance of all of this, is celebration. The bringing together of young people each year from Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England to do battle with fly rods. Not for money, or prizes, or much kudos – other than momentary bragging rights of winning that year – but instead, it is a fiercely fought battle with fur, feather, tinsel, fins, steel, carbon and tactical ingenuity.
The organisation is immense – bringing teams of upwards of 16 to 20 young people from Ireland, or indeed Wales, to Scotland is some task. Parents and relatives play a pivotal role, as do the organising body for that year - hotels, booked, meals planned, boats to be bookes, the list is endless.
All for just one day's competition.
So why do it?
Because the joy and competitive spirit of young people. Also, an opportunity to proudly represent their country. An honour no less proudly worn than a medal at the Olympic games.
Various trials take place throughout UK and Ireland. Wales will be holding its international trials on the 13th of September 2025 at Llyn Trawsfynydd.