Fish O’Mania 2023 is just around the corner, and I can’t wait. The anticipation is tangible, and the competitor line-up is exceptional. As an avid angler and fan, I’ve got some favourites I’d love to see lift the trophy this year.
Kristian Jones: Aiming for Glory
My top pick for the championship has to be Kristian Jones. He’s the current reigning champion and is blazing a trail again this year. What impresses me about Kristian is not only his angling prowess but also his coaching ability. I was fortunate to experience a day’s coaching with him back in 2022 at Partridge Lakes, and it was nothing short of transformative. He’s an excellent angler and a great person, which is evident in his Tackle Guru podcast interview.
Jamie Hughes: A Stalwart of the Sport
Jamie Hughes is another top contender who I admire immensely. How could you not? He’s marking his 12th consecutive final appearance and has already clinched the title three times. Moreover, he recently qualified with an astounding 282lb from Peg 13 on Bank Pool at Moorlands. I found his video interview about his 2022 performance and future aspirations incredibly insightful – it’s worth a watch if you haven’t seen it yet.
Matty Dawes: Showing Promise
Matty Dawes is another angler I’m rooting for. He won the practice match and revealed his adaptability by changing his strategies according to the wind’s whims, a tactic I’ve always respected in anglers. I hope he hasn’t peaked too soon!
Jon Arthur: Sharing Knowledge
Jon Arthur is someone I’ve followed for a while, mainly due to his fantastic YouTube channel. I admire his knack for explaining things so lucidly, and I believe his knowledge and skill could potentially see him lifting the trophy this year.
Keighley Dowd: Inspiring the Next Generation
Last but not least, Keighley Dowd is someone I’d love to see clinch the title. A member of the England Ladies team and a popular YouTuber, Keighley’s preference for the Jigga technique is something I find particularly interesting. She’s a great ambassador for the sport, and a win for her would inspire many.
As Fish O’Mania 2023 approaches, these are my top picks for the final. Of course, the thrill of angling lies in its unpredictability so anything can happen on the day. But one thing’s for sure – it’s set to be an exciting contest, and I’m counting down the days.
