A YOUNG Lochwinnoch fly-fisher helped Scotland clinch a second-place finish at the 2019 Home International at Lake of Menteith last month.

Earning his second international cap, David Cruickshank, 15, was part of the 14-strong host nation team that competed against counterparts from England, Wales and Ireland in the annual event, which dates back to 1986.

As defending champions, it was Scotland’s turn to host after winning the event for the past three years.

The Scottish team, with boys and girls aged from 13 to 17, set off to compete at 9.45am and returned to the boathouse at 5pm for the final count and weigh in.

All fishing took place on boats on the 800-acre lake, with each angler drawn against a competitor from another country.

The Gazette: Team Scotland ahead of the Home International competitionTeam Scotland ahead of the Home International competition

With the winners decided on total weight of fish caught, the young Irish team were victorious.

Cruickshank, with a personal total of 10lbs, and his Scotland team-mates secured second place, with Wales third and England fourth.

Qualification for next year’s event in Ireland has begun and will continue through to September at Lake of Menteith and Carron Valley. Entry is open to boys and girls aged 13 to 17 and the form can be found at sana.org.uk.

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