NATIONAL PAIRS CHAMPS 2018
Over the weekend the SFFNZ National Pairs Championships were held on Lake Rotoaira. While competitions over previous seasons have battled against the elements on this exposed alpine lake that can cut up pretty fast, this year's competition dawned a calm slick with mirror-like, conditions of this nature can usually lead to rather hard fishing loch style, yet this year's stock of Rotoaira fish were feeling hungry and ready to entertain the anglers present with some great conditioned fish caught and in big numbers. Over the three 3 hour sessions, there were 571 rainbows caught averaging 41cm.
While there was a mix of senior and experienced anglers present as well as first-timers, it was hugely encouraging to see a record number of junior anglers present, which bodes well for the future of the sport. Junior angler Joshua Hammond walked away with the biggest fish of the competition measuring 59cm.
Many thanks to longtime supporter Rod and Reel who donated prizes for the top three placed juniors, Isaac Hanlen 14th, Joshua Hammond 18th, Hugo Pearce 24th.
Taking out the individual championship was current National Champion Cory Scott 1st, Lloyd Struthers 2nd, Tim Anderson 3rd, all these anglers are part of the NZ Team who will represent us at the World Championships in Tasmania.
And rounding out the awards the National Pairs Teams Title was taken out by the duo of Lloyd Struthers/Paul Gummer 1st, Tim Anderson/Dan Comer 2nd, Cory Scott/ Gareth Godfrey 3rd. A big thanks to Manic Tackle Project for their support in sponsoring these divisions.
This competition would not be possible without the generous ongoing support of the Lake Rotoaira Trust. And also a massive thanks to Craig Gutry for his efforts in pulling together this championship.
The National Pairs Championship is a great event to participate in if you are looking to try out the sport, or rub shoulders with more experienced anglers to fast track and learn more about Stillwater fly fishing. If you're interested in taking part or would like to know more then please message us.
See our Facebook page for more pics from this and other events.
(L-R) Cory Scott, Gareth Godfrey, Tim Anderson, Dan Comer, Paul Gummer, Lloyd Struthers, Gareth Godfrey
Taking out the individual championship was current National Champion Cory Scott 1st, Lloyd Struthers 2nd, Tim Anderson 3rd, all these anglers are part of the NZ Team who will represent us at the World Championships in Tasmania.
And rounding out the awards the National Pairs Teams Title was taken out by the duo of Lloyd Struthers/Paul Gummer 1st, Tim Anderson/Dan Comer 2nd, Cory Scott/ Gareth Godfrey 3rd.
