The 29th World Fly Fishing Championships launch today, Monday 8th June, with the first day of competitive fishing.

Taking place 8 -12 June, this is the first time the prestigious event has been hosted in the UK. This year’s competition is the largest in the events history with 27 teams and 177 international sportspeople, from as far afield as Japan, South Africa, the USA and Australia competing for the coveted title of World Champions.

The traditional ‘toasting of the water’ ceremony sees FIPS-Mouche president Paul Vekemans and Dr. Neil McCarry, International Organiser toast the water by drinking whisky from a Quaich before pouring some into the water for good luck. Event sponsor, Glengoyne Distillery has donated a limited edition 10 year old Single Malt Whisky, specially created for the competition, for the ritual.

The opening ceremony took place in Drymen on Friday 5 June, attended by Patron of the event, The Duke of Montrose and representatives from Stirling Council. The local community was also involved with entertainment provided by The Stirling Youth Pipe Band which lead the opening procession.

Based around the small village of Drymen, near to Glengoyne Distillery, the event showcases some of Scotland’s most famous and breathtaking fly fishing locations, including Lake of Menteith, Loch Leven, Loch Awe and Carron valley, as well as beats on the River Tay.

(below)The 27 international teams celebrate the launch of the 29th World Fly Fishing Championships along with the Stirling Youth Pipe Band.