An incredible 333 fish were caught — an average of more than 13 per finalist.

 
Daiwa marketing manager Stephen McCaveny — assisted by Sun girls Gayle and Caroline — handed every angler the coveted jacket and cap that marked their achievement in reaching the final.
One angler’s comment summed up the reaction. “Wow, we’re the only people to have these jackets - and ever will.”
Last year’s national champ Ronnie Gilbert was runner-up with Scots international James Litster third. They won top Daiwa gear.
Both had caught more fish than Ken’s 21 — but his nine rainbows made all the difference. Ronnie, 36, of Kilmarnock, said: “Well done to Ken. It’s been a brilliant competition and it’s great that all the fish go back.
“I’ll definitely be here next year to try again.”
James, 38, of Kilmaurs, Ayrshire, added: “The Masters has been superb. Apart from the worlds, I’ve not been so excited about a competition in five years.
“I couldn’t sleep before it and just had to get up at 1am to tie up some flies.
“I’ve officially retired from competitive fishing but I’ll make an exception for next year’s Masters.”
The finalists also gave an overwhelming vote of approval to a vital element of the Masters — catch and release.
No bags of dead fish dumped in the car park or in bins on various routes home. No wild brownies knocked on the head to make up the numbers.
More than 330 fish caught on the day - and all returned, thanks in no small part to the skill and care of the boatmen.
Scotland team boss and Masters official John Ross said: “The whole catch and release element has been brilliant - this is definitely the way ahead for competitions.”
The buzz round the after-match barbecue echoed that view. One finalist said: “The boatmen were excellent and catch and release is great for the fish obviously and the anglers - not to mention the sport’s image.”
 
Marketing boss Stephen McCaveny said: “From the first evening heat I realised we’d created a cracking competition.
“The enthusiasm and effort by anglers was often professional - it was clear they all really wanted to win.
“Our intention was to make getting to the final a realistic prospect for anybody and, importantly, acknowledge the achievement.
“The final line-up on the day demonstrated that, with non-competition anglers and one of our emerging juniors, James Fairlie, finding themselves among the big boys.
"Winning our unique jacket and cap after six hours of intense competition was well received by every finalist. They were proud to have them.
“I want to thank every angler who took part and our finalists for a superb attitude and valued support.
“I am looking forward to next year with what we all hope will be bigger, better and THE event to be part of.”