TwinPeakes Fly Fishing is celebrating an extraordinary month of achievement, as two of its instructors win major national qualifications and international competitions and become the youngest to reach this level of discipline.
At just 23 years old, Blaine Lyon from Ayrshire, has set a record, claiming the title of 2026 Spey-O-Rama World Champion, with two staggering casts of 199 feet off both shoulders in the Men’s Open. Already recognised as the youngest World Champion in both the Spey-O-Rama and World Championships in 2025, he has once again, significantly outperformed the typical competitive average of around 160 feet.
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Tom Wood, from Cumbria, has achieved his Scottish Game Anglers Instruction Certificate (SGAIC), bringing him in as the youngest qualified fly fishing instructor in the UK.
“Tom and Blaine’s incredible achievements are testament to their dedication and in the hours spent perfecting their craft,” commented Alastair and William Peake, twin brothers and founders of TwinPeakes Fly Fishing.
“We are deeply proud of them both. Their commitment, professionalism and passion are helping shape the future of fly fishing, and their success reflects the TwinPeakes ethos of supporting and developing the next generation of talented anglers.”
Alongside their UK guiding and instructing, the TwinPeakes team regularly host international fly fishing trips, including journeys to Chile, Iceland and Norway. In October this year, Blaine will lead his first solo-hosted expedition to British Columbia.
“Fishing has always been more than a job to me,” said Blaine. “There’s something addictive about constantly trying to improve – whether that’s refining a cast or helping someone else land their fish. Competing pushes me beyond expected limitations. In the water with a rod in my hand is where I feel most alive.”
The twin brothers first met Blaine at Scone Game Fair in 2018, aged 16. Already representing the Scottish Youth Trout Team and performing casting demonstrations, he immediately stood out for both his technical skill and level of maturity.
“From the very beginning, we recognised something special in him,” said Alastair.
“His drive and natural ability were extraordinary. We donated a special Loop reel to support his distance casting potential and later offered him three weeks’ work experience to ghillie on a Scottish estate on the River Dee. Seven years later, he has become a core member of our team.”
Blaine added, “Working with TwinPeakes allows me to push beyond my limits, and this is because of the belief they place in me. From day one, I was treated as part of their team, not just as a trainee. That trust makes you want to work hard and give everything back.”
Tom’s achievement as the UK’s youngest qualified casting instructor further reinforces that culture. Having joined the company just over a year ago, his progression has been rapid.
“The standard here is high, but that’s what drives you. You’re surrounded by people who are passionate and positively push you forward,” said Tom.
“I was fortunate to grow up in the Cumbrian countryside – fly fishing is a sport I’ve always known and loved. Granted with the opportunity to guide and instruct others in a sport that benefits wellbeing and keeps me outdoors is special. Teaching others and seeing their confidence grow is incredibly rewarding. TwinPeakes has given me opportunities I never imagined at my age.”
Based outside Banchory on Royal Deeside, TwinPeakes Fly Fishing operates a fly casting school and respected outfitting service, supplying trusted brands and expert guidance, through its team of instructors and guides. Established in 2015, the business is dedicated to promoting, developing and sustaining the sport of fly fishing and has earned a reputation as one of the UK’s leading providers of guided fishing experiences, and hosted international trips.
William Peake concluded, “As we continue to expand our guided fly fishing experiences both nationally and internationally, our focus remains firmly rooted in education, sharing our lifelong passion, and providing opportunities to encourage as many people as possible to give this rewarding sport a go.”