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Graham West
I started fishing at the age of 5. My dad used to take me to the great Ouse every Sunday morning in the heart of Bedford. In my early years, I used to fish with Luton Angling Club juniors, which is where I learnt all about fishing squat and pinkies on the Grand Union Canal.
I then progressed to the senior matches ,where at the age of 16 I was successfully winning senior matches. At the age of 19 I joined the then awesome Image Blackhorse, the original team, with match stars such as Mark Pollard , Mark Bird and Rob Hewison, to name just a few. This is where I gained so much knowledge, with "polly" as my mentor.
During those years , I gained a wealth of experience, by winning team nationals and reaching winter league finals/ semi finals. I suppose that's the reason why team fishing has always been my true love in my match fishing career.
I have been fortunate to win some big matches individually over the years, however nothing is better than winning a big team event when surrounded by your friends. All the hard work practicing and effort put in by everyone, and to come out on top is a great feeling.
Over the years I have fished for some top teams, Browning hotrods, sensas Image, team Browning but about 9 years ago some of the original Blackhorse lads decided to reform and get back on the canals, with some great success.
Four years ago we became sponsored by tackle giants Preston Innovations and now fish under the prestigious Preston innovations Blackhorse name. I am the joint captain and enjoyed many successes in recent years. Last year we finished 6th overall in the Angling Trust Winter league final out of the top 32 teams in the country.
To be individually sponsored by Preston Innovations and to have this opportunity to be a part of their team is what dreams are made of.
Even at my young age of 47 being surrounded by world class anglers is amazing .
I look forward to being part of the increidbly strong team at Preston Innovations.
| Name |
| Graham West |
| Occupation |
| Director/ Valetor |
| Personal Best Match Weight |
| 263-10 |
| Angling Achievements |
| Division 3 national individual champion , 3x National team winners medals, 7 x National top 3 medals , 3 x Billy Knott memorial festival winner ( Cornwall) , 5 x angling trust winter league team finalist, 2011 winter league semi final individual winner , |
| Favoured Venue |
| Willows Fishery |
| Favourite Method |
| Open end feeder for bream |
| Item of tackle I would not be without |
| 4 wheeled shuttle , Supera feeder rods and M90 pole |
| Angling Ambition |
| To carry on enjoying my fishing to the best of my ability. Competing in team events at a high level and to help other anglers by passing on my knowledge and experience to them |
