The 2012 Youths Inter-provincial Fly Tying Competition was held at the Dropping Well Pub in Milltown on the 10th March 2012. Juvenile anglers from all areas of the country travelled to the venue to represent their respective provinces; all hoping to win the all Ireland fly tying champion title. The competition commenced at 11AM and finished at 3.30PM, with a thirty minute break for lunch at 1PM. Each competitor was required to tie four fly patterns which were the Grey Wulff, Grey Duster, Cock Robin, and Claret Bumble.
While competitors were tying accompanying adults were treated to an entomology lesson with Dr. Ken Whelan; this lesson consisted of a powerpoint followed by a session on the river bank where various pupae and fry were captured. Dr. Whelan described each individual insect and explained how to differentiate between them.
Individual 1st prize went to Ciaran Reilly from Loughrea, County Galway. Ciaran represented Ireland in the IFFA (International Fly Fishing Association) International Competition in Scotland last year; Ciaran will represent Ireland again this year. 2nd prize went to Conor Cunningham, also from Loughrea. Conor also represented Ireland at the IFFA International Fly Angling Competition last year. Third prize went to Fergal McKiernan from Coosan, County Westmeath. Fergal Captained the Irish International Youth Fly Angling Team last year and he will represent Ireland for the fourth time this year.
In the team section, first prize went to Connaught, followed closely by Leinster. Munster finished in third place and Ulster finished fourth.
ITFFA would like to extend their gratitude to TAFI, Noel Shields, Des Chew, The Dropping Well Pub and all others who assisted in organising this excellent event.
If you would like more information about this topic, or you would like to arrange an interview, please contact Joseph Keena at 086 8722449 or e-mail [email protected]
