From left are River Ennis, Reed Ennis and Patrick Gilchrist of NCSAF.

Brothers River and Reed Ennis of Cape Fear Christian Academy have won the North Carolina Student Angler Federation championship.

The brothers and Brian Ennis, their dad, who serves as boat captain and coach, have been recognized by Patrick Gilchrist, president and director of the NCSAF.

The statement from Gilchrist:

“The North Carolina Student Angler Federation started its first state team trail in September of 2018 with eight tournaments scheduled for the 2018-2019 season. This was the first team trail of its kind for North Carolina with a High School and Junior division.

“River and Reed Ennis along with their boat captian Brain Ennis were the first team to sign up for the Junior division at the High Rock Lake Open. After an 8-hour day of fishing the Ennis Team came in and took first place. This was their first step on the path to the SAF Junior World Championship.

“As the SAF trail continued month after month on Jordan Lake, Norman Lake, Belew’s Creek, Shearon Harris Reservoir and Badin Lake, the Ennis team had some tough, challenging days with bitter cold rains in the 30’s to some days with high winds. However, River and Reed never gave up. Their passion for the sport of bass fishing truly helped them to push through the tough times and bring home the NC SAF Team Trail Junior Championship which qualifies them for the World Championship in Arkansas this summer.

“Congratulations River and Reed for doing a great job and never giving up. Your courage to pursue your passions for your sport will take you a long way in life.”