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Jonathan Longden


Digital Writer

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Competition angler, tackle shop owner, fishery manager, and tackle and bait expert, Jonathan brings a wealth of experience to the team.

For over three decades, he has been a dedicated angler and competed in some of the country's most prestigious match fishing events, including the Drennan Knock Out Cup and Fish 'O' Mania. These experiences not only honed his competitive edge but also instilled in him a deep understanding of angling techniques and strategies.

Jonathan has spent over 20 years as a tackle shop owner, specialising in match and coarse fishing. This role provided him with extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. Additionally, he served as a fishery manager for six years at two prominent commercial fisheries. In this role, he oversaw the fishery's health, ran matches, ensured a top-notch angling experience, and gained valuable insights into fishery management practices.

Driven by a desire for even greater knowledge, he pursued a Foundation Degree in Sports Fisheries and Aquaculture at Sparsholt College, Hampshire. This academic foundation complements his extensive practical experience and allows him to approach angling with a scientific lens.

Jonathan is now looking forward to leveraging his experience and knowledge as a writer with the Angling Times, sharing his insights and passion with the angling community. His work promises to be informative and engaging, catering to anglers of all levels.

Jonathan's Bio

Favourite fish:  Crucian Carp.

Best Catch:  267lb of Carp, Lodge Farm Fisheries, Doncaster.

Most memorable session:  Fishing a Fish'o'Mania qualifier @ Partridge Lakes, going prepared to fish for F1's on the Coveys and drawing Holbar lake, this is a specimen lake at the venue. I was totally under gunned and proceeded to destroy every rig in my box and limped home with 89lb and lost over 100lb of fish. The qualifying weight was 103lb. Moral: Prepare for every eventuality.

Hobbies: Outside of fishing, enjoys to dabble in cooking. Enjoys reading books on true crime, particularly Jack the Ripper. Also has a keen interest in Sharks and it's on his bucket list to catch and release a Blue, Mako and Great White Shark.

All articles by Jonathan Longden

How to choose and fit a pole elastic

How to choose and fit a pole elastic

Advice | 22 08 2024

Fishing your first match | Everything you need to know to get started

Fishing your first match | Everything you need to know to get started

Advice | 31 03 2025

How to catch your first bream

How to catch your first bream

Advice | 07 04 2025

How to play fish on the pole

How to play fish on the pole

Advice | 14 03 2025

How to catch your first fish

How to catch your first fish

Advice | 22 03 2025

How to set up and use a fishing pole | beginners guide

How to set up and use a fishing pole | beginners guide

Advice | 26 12 2024

5 fishing knots every beginner should know

5 fishing knots every beginner should know

Advice | 09 02 2025

How to weigh fish safely and accurately

How to weigh fish safely and accurately

Advice | 03 05 2025