Competitions
IFFA Spring Loch Style Fly Fishing International at Llyn Trawsfynydd, Wales on Friday 22nd May 2026
The international is fished from free drifting boats with anglers from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales competing for the various trophies.
Teams consist of 14 anglers and in England’s case are drawn through qualifier events from across the country.
Teams gathered for the official practice day on Wednesday 20th but were unable to access the water due to abnormally strong winds. Some teams had been out practising prior to this date which gave them an early insight into fish locations and methods. Fortunately boats were allowed out on the 21st and the England team took full advantage with some very good catches. The weather however changed dramatically on match day from cloudy and cool with gusty winds changing on the day to brightness, warmth and lighter breezes.
The trout were found to be located in several small areas mainly in shallow water around the many rocks and shallows. Care was required to handle the boats in these areas.
At the cessation of the match a quick count indicated a large win for the Scotland team with England in second place, Wales third and Ireland fourth. Top English angler was Jake Wenman with an incredible catch of 26 trout.
AT TEFF would like to congratulate Scotland on their win. Also thanks to the Welsh Salmon and Trout Angling Association for organising the international and to the fishery for their efforts in providing such excellent fishing. Thank you to the 28 boatmen who gave up their time on the match day. Finally thanks to the Celtic Royal Hotel for providing accommodation and an excellent gala dinner at the awards evening.
Main results.
Top rod – Tyler Hay, Scotland – Brown Bowl – top rod for the third consecutive time – 30 fish – outstanding achievement.
Best fish – Shakti Begha, England – H. Emyr Lewis trophy for a fish of 72cm
Best English bag – Jake Wenman, England – The Grafham Trophy – 25 fish
The England team comprised:
- Ian Colclough (Team Manager)
- Gary Morris (Captain)
- Shaktihang Begha – new cap
- Phil Calvert
- Richard Denney
- Ryan Feber
- Paul Bond – new cap
- Gary Haskins
- Bruce Blackshaw – new cap
- Tim Joyce
- Mark Rose
- Dom Sheratte
- Frank Sumnall
- Nik Tompkins – new cap
- Jake Wenman
A special mention for Ron Gent who qualified for the team but sadly passed away a few months before the event. His wife will be presented with his cap posthumously.
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