SAMF are pleased to announce this years Combined Armed Forces match (CAF), hosted by the Army, will take place on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th February. Anyone interested in fishing as part of the SAMF team please contact Ian Bowell. If we are overwhelmed with SAMF members wanting to fish then I’ll put my recommendation for selection to our committee. I’m hoping some of our experienced SAMF match team anglers along with some new to the team apply. This could be an excellent opportunity for those just dipping their toe into match fishing to be part of a SAMF team with a great tradition and achievement. Many who have supported this event have gone onto represent either SAMF or their home nation at the highest level in sea match fishing. Accommodation is currently being firmed up, but the Army hope to offer rooms for all teams at 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC (17 P&M) at Marchwood. The rooms will mostly be multi-occupancy and you’ll likely need to bring your own bedding, but they will be free, you are of course entitled to find alternative accommodation if you don’t wish to stay on the army camp. The primary match venue will be Southbourne, with Steamer Point an option if Southbourne is fishing particularly badly or conditions dictate. Christchurch Angling is providing the bait packs (mackerel, squid and rag). As is the tradition with this event a formal meal and presentation will take place in the Warrant Officers’ and Sgts’ Mess. This is a great opportunity to get those SAMF and or national blazers out of the wardrobe as for those attending it is a suit and tie event. Total cost to fish is £50, assuming free accomodation, which cover bait packs and presentation meal. There is a SLO match on the Saturday evening at Southbourne, which while possible to do as well, would mean you miss the presentation, which to respect our fellow teams; CAF, Police and Fire, I hope all SAMF team members would choose to attend the meal. I’m sure you can find a match on the Sunday to fish! Friday’s match is 1700-2200 so you can travel on the day, with Saturday 0900-1400. Please feel to give me a call if you’re interested or have any questions. Thanks Ian Bowell.