As we head into the final competition of the DTAA calendar, it is clear that this event is much bigger than any single competition. It is all to play for among the top three: Competition secretary, angler extraordinaire and fly tying master Tom ‘Hipster’ Hipwell is in pole position on 39 points. Snapping at Hipwell’s heels we have Irish cap John ‘Top Rod’ O’Neill on 36 points. With just 3 points in it, John would need a 4 point edge on Hipwell at the McCarron Cup this Saturday to take the coveted DTAA Angler of the Year Trophy and the eternal respect of all members.

In 3rd place on the Leaderboard and just 3 points behind O’Neill we have DTAA President, also capped for Ireland, Gerry ‘Gentleman’ Heaslip. Gerry is known for coming back from a day’s fishing on Owel with 10 or more fish and he might need that form this weekend to beat both O’Neill and Hipwell into top spot. The route to victory is challenging but doable. If Heaslip can muster a 7 point edge on Hipwell then he takes the cup. This could happen in a number of ways. Heaslip could take top spot and Hipwell could blank or come 8th or worse on the day and with 24 anglers expected to field this Saturday this is a possibility. But Heaslip would also need O’Neill to place 5th or worse. The odds are against this and the bookies favourite for the McCarron and for DTAA Angler of the Year must be Tom.

Wishing all anglers a safe, productive and enjoyable day out this weekend. Tight lines all.