As Team Manager, I am incredibly proud to share the story of our youth fly-fishing team’s remarkable journey at the 25th FIPS Mouche Championship. Returning to the international stage after a 13-year absence, the Under 18 England River, Bank Fly Fishing Team arrived as complete unknowns, underdogs ready to embrace the challenge, learn and soak in every moment.
Competing across five different venues, the Under 18 England River, Bank Fly Fishing Team faced a journey that demanded adaptability and quick learning. Each venue offered new conditions and required the anglers to draw on different skills, highlighting just how rigorous and varied the competition was. The river sectors tested us in ways many on the team had never experienced before, making every achievement particularly meaningful.
Throughout the event, I watched as our team gained confidence and honed their skill with each session. By day three, the Under 18 England River, Bank Fly Fishing Team celebrated winning a loch style/still water sector, Hebgen Lake – a standout accomplishment given the fierce international competition.
On the final day of competition, the Under 18 England River, Bank Fly Fishing Team delivered standout performances:
Finding this rhythm late in the week shows just how much potential we have moving forward. The final standings placed us last in the team competition, but that did not matter. What truly counted was how much each angler from the Under 18 England River, Bank Fly Fishing Team grew, overcame and discovered much about themselves, each other and the wider context of the sport.
This championship was more than just a contest. It was an unforgettable adventure through some of the world’s most iconic fly-fishing destinations, Montana, Idaho and Wyoming. The scenery took our breath away, the rivers challenged us in ways UK waters never could and every new experience seemed to unlock a greater love and respect for this sport.
It was not just about the fishing. Each day gave our young anglers moments of wonder, watching deer graze at the roadside, spotting coyotes prowling in the dusk, seeing a snake cross our path with a frog in its mouth, butterflies drifting past, bald eagles soaring above and marvelling at the intricate patterns of wild rainbow trout. These memories, for me and for the team, are just as valuable as any medal.
Yes, the scoreboard did not tilt in our favour, but the lessons learned, resilience gained and camaraderie built are worth far more. I am inspired by the progress each angler made, their determination and the sense of adventure they brought to every riverbank.
I am inspired by the progress each angler made, their determination and the sense of adventure they brought to every riverbank.
For those who would like to learn more about our journey or the England U18 River & Bank Team, please get in touch.
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