The British Fly Casting Club (BFCC) returns to The Game Fair this year with its ever-popular casting competitions. Anglers of all ages will take part in trout accuracy, single handed trout distance, and double handed overhead salmon over the three days, designed to test their precision on the lake.
Today marked the opening for the weekend of competition, as competitors gathered for the first round of casting challenges.
The Trout Accuracy competition saw exceptional performances across all divisions. The Junior title went to budding fisherman Jack Gow, 17, with a stellar score of 49 – equalising the top score across the whole event. Meanwhile, in the Men and Women’s category it was a family affair, with mother son duo Paula and Cruze Zimmeman taking the top spots. Cruze demonstrated top notch angling precision, finishing on a brilliant score of 49, with his mother Paula finishing on a fantastic 35. This year marked Paula’s fifth Game Fair, with Cruze making the trip for the first time. Both competitors made the journey from Patagonia, Argentina where they live and fish salmon on local rivers. “It is amazing,” commented Paula when asked about The Game Fair, “I think the whole organisation is just fantastic, and the ultimate outing for anyone who likes the outdoors. It is especially perfect for us as there aren’t many events like this available in Argentina. The day couldn’t have been nicer, and we are hoping for a great day tomorrow as well.”
Jack Gow, 17, at the Daily Competition Prize Giving. Photo credit: Matt Kidd
A tightly contested Trout Distance event saw Michael Jacks and Edward M. tied for the top spot, with a stand-out cast of 31.5 metres. Paula Zimmeman delivered another exceptional performance and led the Female competitors with a cast of 22.5 metres, while Jack Gow continued to emerge victorious in the Junior group with a fantastic score of 32 metres. A notable mention and prize was given to Freddie Foulkes, 14, who came second having only had one lesson with the instructor on site before competing in the event.
In the tightly contested Salmon Overhead Distance challenge, Edward M. triumphed in the Male division with a powerful 42.5 metre cast. Julia Makin secured the Female title with 26 metres, and Jack Gow continued to dominate the Junior category with a cast reaching 40.5 metres, a distance that would’ve seen him second in the men’s category. Jack will be looking to continue his winning streak in the championship event over the weekend.
Alongside the daily competitions, there is the Championship Events at the lake this weekend, with the current leader going into Saturday being Tracy Thomas, with James Evans and Steve Parkes rounding out the podium.
Ragley Lake hosts a plethora of fishing events, demos and competitions. Photo Credit: Matt Kidd
