TZANEEN – Campbell McLean, an 18-year-old Gr 12 learner at Merensky Agricultural Academy, has cast his way into the international spotlight after representing South Africa at the 22nd FIPS-Mouche World Youth Flyfishing Championship in the United States this July.

McLean was part of the South African Youth Protea flyfishing team that competed in the prestigious competition held across the on the rivers and lakes of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. The team brought home a historic bronze medal, only the second ever for South Africa’s youth flyfishing team, the first being in Ireland in 2013.

“I was beyond excited when I found out I had made the team,” McLean said. “Fishing in America was a privilege and a dream come true. Some of the rivers we fished are world-renowned, and to experience them firsthand was surreal.”

McLean, who discovered his love for flyfishing in Gr 6 after being introduced to the sport by a friend from Lydenburg, said flyfishing is more than a hobby; it is a passion and a way to connect deeply with nature.

“Everyone thinks flyfishing is just about packing a rod and flies, but there is so much preparation involved, especially in competitive angling,” he explained. “You spend hours researching insect life and tying custom flies that imitate them. It is like a chess game with the fish.”

His favourite technique, Euro nymphing, helped him secure an impressive 13th place overall, despite competing in only four out of five sessions.

“It is a technique where most competition fish are caught, so I focus on mastering it.”

McLean qualified for the world stage after participating in the Protea trials, where the top 16 national flyfishers are evaluated on their skills in technique, fly-tying, and casting. The top six were selected to represent South Africa.

He credits his family, the local flyfishing community, and his school for their unwavering support, even though flyfishing is not a traditional school sport.

“I have been fortunate to have support from all directions,” McLean said. “Merensky has acknowledged my achievements, and our local Limpopo Flyfishing Club has become a space where I also teach others fly-tying and different fishing techniques.”

Despite his success, he remains humble and passionate about nurturing young talent and protecting South Africa’s natural fishing resources.

“I live by Gary Player’s words: ‘The more you practice, the luckier you will get.’ We must support young anglers, promote catch-and-release, and preserve our rivers so future generations can enjoy this incredible sport.”

As for the future, McLean says flyfishing will remain a lifelong passion, both competitively and as an escape from life’s daily demands.