awWAFFiC 2003 attracted 80 anglers from supporting companies and organisations from around the UK. Novices and first time fly anglers have been encouraged in the event with free courses being offered for entrants at the Anglian Water reservoirs. Tuition and tackle was also provided on the day by Anglian Water supported by local Fly Fishing club, Rutland Water Fly Fishers. Over 40% of the entrants this year were novices or first timers. Although there is a competitive edge to the challenge with trophies for teams and individuals, including the annual team shield sponsored by May Gurney, the event has naturally developed into an enjoyable, friendly day where novices and first time fly fishers have the opportunity of experiencing the thrill of catching a trout on the fly. It is hoped that the event will introduce many more people to Fly Fishing.
The 20 teams that took part caught 128 fish with an average weight of 1lb 14oz and rod average of 1.66, which was very good considering the high number of first time Fly Fishers. Many of the boats headed for the main bowl and dam areas of the reservoir with some making for the top of the north and south arms in search of quality over wintered fish. Fish were found feeding mainly on the surface and this provided some exciting fishing for all, especially the beginners. Best methods were mainly small flies (Diawl Bachs, CDC Buzzers and Mini Lures) fished quickly in the top six inches of water on floating lines.
The event was rounded off by an excellent meal served at the Waterside Café Bar above the fishing lodge with trophies presented by Anglian Water Chief Executive, Roy Pointer and a Raffle drawn by Alan Machin, Head of Regional and Community Fundraising for the WaterAid charity.
2003 RESULTS
The WaterAid/May Gurney Trophy Shield went to winning team
Biwater/Morgan Est partnership; Mark Froggatt, Jo Burrows, David Morris and Alistair Beaumont with 20 fish for 36lb 2oz. Runner-up team was AWG PMS; Gary Young, Simon Pritchett, Ian
Strudwick, Adrian Strudwick with 17 fish for 31lb 12oz. The best individual was David Morris
(Biwater/Morgan Est) with 8 fish for 15 lb 6oz. David also caught the largest fish, a 3 lb Rainbow.
Event Sponsors;
