Ayr angler lands gold for Scotland

Oct 28 2011 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

AN Ayr angler has been crowned as one of Britain’s top fishermen.

And proud Alec Bowler hopes his national success can inspire a new breed to take up the sport he loves.

The fly fisher was part of the Scottish team who went to Ireland and won the home international bank championship.

That makes Alec one of the top fly fishers in the country – and now he’s challenging Ayrshire’s youth to follow in his footsteps.

The 42-year-old said: “A lot of people seem to think fishing involves old men sat beside a river with a can of worms.

“But the truth is very different and I think more people should just go out there and give it a go – they’d really enjoy it.

“The problem is most kids these days would much rather play their Playstations than head out to catch some fish.

“But I’ve loved it since the moment I started 15 years ago and travel across the country every weekend to do as much fishing as I can.

“Most people take a break during the winter season but I keep going. I absolutely love it.”

Alec and five other anglers from across Scotland claimed the gold medal in the prestigious team tournament last week.

They battled tough conditions to see off host nation Ireland, who were squeezed into the silver medal position.

And antique restorer, Alec, insists his victory should provide inspiration for other fishermen in Ayrshire.

He said: “We have some great places to fish and there are some really good facilities for people to go and learn.

“Fishing started out as a hobby for me 15 years ago and to reach the point where I’m now one of the top six bank anglers in Britain is just a brilliant achievement.

“It would be great if my victory inspired just one or two youngsters to go and pick up a fishing rod because it’s a fantastic thing to do. Thanks to all my sponsors who have made this possible.”