What is a Tournament Angler?
Most people have heard of fishing competitions or tournaments — whether it’s Bream, Flathead, Bass and so on. What often begins as a simple day out in the tinny or kayak can quickly turn into an obsession, with many anglers wanting to improve, catch bigger fish, and test themselves against others who share the same passion. Once you move beyond social fishing with mates or camping trips and start watching weigh-ins like ABT, Hobie or VicBream, you’re more than likely on your way to entering your first competition.
How Did I Become a Tournament Angler?
For me, it all began over seven years ago. I was already fishing regularly from my Hobie kayak, having owned Hobies for many years, but one day I found myself scrolling through Hobie’s website, watching videos of anglers fishing stunning estuaries around the country. I realised I wanted to be part of that world.
A lovely lady in Queensland pointed me in the right direction, and before long I had everything I needed to compete in my first Hobie Bream tournament at Bemm River in eastern Victoria. When February rolled around, I was excited — but also terrified. What if I didn’t catch a fish? What if I failed?
Thankfully, I didn’t. I caught fish both days, weighed in two decent bags, and walked away absolutely elated. I was completely addicted. Seven years later, I’m still competing in the Hobie Bream series and wouldn’t have it any other way.
What Skills Do You Need?
Tournament anglers need dedication and a willingness to go to some extreme measures to put together a bag (3 fish for kayak events, 5 for boating events). The best anglers are organised — gear rigged perfectly, no rusty trebles, no dodgy knots. Your tackle trays should hold the right hardbodies and plastics for the system you’re fishing.
You’ll spend a lot of time casting, changing lures, and working out what fish want on that particular day. Being able to quickly adjust — lure profile, colour, retrieve speed, or how you work a plastic — is one of the most important skills you can have.
Which Series Is for You? Hobie, VicBream or ABT?
Several years into the Hobie series, I fished my first VicBream event. It was a great chance to test my skills against some of the state’s best Bream anglers. I’ve fished quite a few VicBream tournaments since, but Hobie events remain my favourite.
After that, I entered my first ABT tournament as a non-boater. ABT (Australian Bream/Barra/Bass Tournament) events bring together some of the very best anglers in the country, many in incredibly sleek, fast Bass boats. I was nervous at first, wondering if I’d bitten off more than I could chew. I managed to catch a few fish, held my own, and came away more determined than ever. I’d found my place.
Female vs Male Ratios
You may wonder how many women compete in tournament fishing. In Hobie events, it’s usually between one and seven females — often just a handful. VicBream is another great way to get involved, with friendly competition and strong prizes. Fewer women fish ABT tournaments, but we’re out there!
Socialising and Friendships
You don’t need to be a marathon athlete — just fit enough for long days on the water. If you love warm beds at 4am, tournament life might be a challenge! But honestly, half the fun is the social side. The friendships you form become lifelong. I could travel anywhere in Australia or Tasmania now and find someone keen for a fish. I’ve even connected with Hobie anglers from Denmark, the US, and the UK.
Benefits of Tournament Angling
Fishing has made me a more patient angler and a calmer person overall. You’re often out there battling the elements, solving problems on the fly. Staying calm and focused is key. You learn quickly to read the conditions, look after your gear, and be responsible for yourself — and sometimes for your teammate.
Achievements
I’m proud to say I’m the only female in Australia to have competed in three consecutive Australian Championships. If you’ve ever thought about entering a tournament — any species — just do it. I can’t recommend the experience enough.
Learn more about competition fishing in kayaks in this article also from WIRFAB Leader, Ruth Beeby.
To learn more about fishing in Victoria, check out the Victorian Fisheries Authority Rec Fishing Guide.