England's quest to bring home top honours from this year’s Freestyle Feeder World Championships was boosted this week after the top-level trio of Steve Ringer, Adam Wakelin and Pemb Wrighting were added to the side.
The event will take place at Portugal’s vast Odivelas Dam, in July, where angry wild carp are the main target species. The three new recruits will be joined by captain Phil Ringer, Alex Dockerty and Wayne Bartholomew, while former squad members Joe Jaggar and Nick Speed will make way. Captain Phil was keen to recognise the important contributions of both anglers who are missing out.
LOOKING FOR A NEW FEEDER ROD? CHECK OUT OUR BUYER'S GUIDE FOR THE BEST AVAILABLE.
“Joe and Nick should be applauded for what they’ve done for the side so far, particularly in a team that’d only existed for two years,” he told us.
“Now, it’s amazing to bring in experienced anglers in Steve and Adam. We want to win gold, and adding these two is a step in the right direction.”
Phil was also keen to shine a light on Pemb Wrighting, who impressed hugely at the Freestyle Iberian Masters, held last year.
“He rolled the dice, went to Spain, and blew us away with his performance, finishing third overall, Pemb is a fantastic addition to the side,” he added.
GET ONE OF THE BEST FISHING SEATBOXES TO HELP YOU SIT COMFORTABLY WHEN FEEDER FISHING.
When the Freestyle World Championships – which is an eventwhere Method feeders are allowed – was first created, many assumed England would romp to victory, such is the popularity of the tactic on home soil. But the Method’s appeal extends far beyond our shores.
“Freestyle feeder fishing is unstoppable, and will turn into an absolute monster,” Phil added.
“Method feeder fishing is constantly growing in popularity. In Romania, it’s all they do! It’s no surprise that they’ve won gold at the last two World Champs.”
But England are making an extra effort this year by heading out to Portugal for two practice sessions.
“We have a great sponsor in Dragon Energy, who have put the infrastructure in place to allow us to visit in March for a recce, then a month before the Worlds to fish a festival, and finally for the main event in July,” Phil said.
“You need to put the effort in if you want to win, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
