The 2008 Richard Wheatley National Rivers Championship

With the River Wharfe in full spate the National Rivers final was postponed in September and rearranged during November on the River Itchen, near the historic cathedral town of Winchester.

We were generously hosted by the Portsmouth Services Fly Fishing Association and the beats of the Itchen on their Manor and Lower St. Cross 'B' fisheries.

As dawn broke on the Sunday morning, the competitors gathered at the river bank to commence battle. The final was fished in four sessions, with anglers moving beats every hour and a half.

Although renowned as a brown trout fishery the national was based solely on grayling catches.

The first session saw few fish caught but an early lead was established by Rob Thomas, closely followed by, James Atkinson and Mark Harrison.
In the second session the fish started to feed, Thomas Gott came to the fore, and Rob again caught fish to maintain his place at the top of the leader board.

After a short break for lunch the weather improved, although fishing conditions proved tricky in the increasingly strong breeze. The two afternoon sessions saw section wins for Carl Malpass and Matthew Kidd

At the end of the competition we had caught 39 grayling; the largest fish prize went to Rob Thomas with a 37cm grayling. Rob Thomas also became the fourth National Rivers Champion and took possession of the Tom Bilson trophy.

There are a host of people to thank; Mark Woof of Richard Wheatley for their kind and generous sponsorship; the Portsmouth Services Fly Fishing and Greg Payne, Simon Kidd for his efforts in finding a suitable alternative venue, Mike Mee for the scoring and Alex Jardine for his help and support.

Lastly to all the competitors and controllers, some of whom had travelled great distances.

We hope you enjoyed the experience and hope to see you again next year!