With the calibre of lure anglers ever increasing, this fairly new category in the National Angling Awards was a tough one to call.
Ultimately, Luke Jordan's ability to catch huge fish from tough waters swung it and he is your 'Lure Angler of the Year'. Not content with perch to over 4lb, Luke had two 17lb-plus zander in 2023. We caught up with him to find out more about his angling.
How does it feel to win?
“Absolutely amazing! I’ve put a lot of time and effort in this year. The award makes it all worthwhile.”
You’ve had huge zander this season! What’s your approach for these amazing fish?
“Most vital is simply putting the time in. I work full time, but at the weekends I’m out fishing if I’m not doing family things. In autumn and winter I use mainly larger shads (12cm-16cm). Bites don’t come often but patience will eventually produce a big fish!”
Any tips you can share with our readers to catch bigger fish on lures?
“Stick to larger lures and work through the different colours in your box. When the water is fairly clear, I go with natural colours, but when it’s coloured I use bright or dark. Keep casting and don’t give up!”
What’s next for you? Any aims or goals for 2024?
“Just to continue enjoying the sport and carry on as before – the phrase “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” comes to mind!
“I also want to keep helping young anglers I meet on the bank, whether it’s offering a few tips or giving them a handful of lures. It’s so important to the sport.”
FIND THE BEST VENUES FOR LURE FISHING NEAR YOU IN THIS WHERE TO FISH GUIDE.
HIGHLY COMMENDED - NICK WILSON
Still a young gun, but already in the England fold and framing at big events, Nick is definitely a lure angler to watch!
HOW YOU VOTED...
Luke Jordan
41.4% of you voted
Gloucestershire lure fanatic Luke has had a blistering year. Zander of 17lb 12oz and 17lb 5oz, numerous perch over 4lb topped by a specimen of 4lb 10oz and a handful of big pike are just some of his results, in what’s been a memorable campaign on lures.
Nick Wilson
14.5% of you voted
A rising young star of the UK scene and definitely one to watch! With a knack of catching fish when it matters, he currently holds first place in street fishing’s hotly contested Elite Pro League.
Andy Page
13.8% of you voted
The specimen predator angler turned lure expert has had a sensational 2023, with big wins and big fish galore. Won both the World Predator Classic and Rutland’s 3-day Lake Challenge, plus perch to a staggering 5lbs 4oz this year!
David Jacobs
13.4% of you voted
Super consistent lure angler, who has fished his way to podium finishes across UK and international events alike. Winner of the 2023 Elite Pro Kayak League. Pike to 117cm and perch to 51cm (4lbs 6oz) in 2023!
Robbie Northman
9.9% of you voted
Following Robbie on Facebook is sure to tempt any angler into giving lure fishing a go. In another great year, he's caught just about everything you could wish for on lures from big pike, perch, chub and zander to wrasse and bass from the sea. He does a lot of fly fishing too.
Richard Archer
7.8% of you voted
Consistent podium finishes at various events and a brilliant kayak angler. Has an impressive track record of big fish, with a cracking 35lb pike during a Pitsford Kayak competition earlier this year.
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