Dave Shires

Dave Shires is a seasoned UK match angler renowned for his composure under pressure and technical prowess on commercial venues. In July 2024, he clinched the FishOMania Grand Final title in a thrilling contest, edging out the competition by just 100 grams to secure the £50,000 prize. This victory marked his fourth appearance in the FishOMania finals, having previously qualified in 2018, 2022, and 2023.

Dave’s angling journey began at age 11, fishing alongside his father during holidays in Lowestoft. He progressed through the ranks with Wakefield Juniors and later Ossett Central WMC, honing his skills across various match circuits. At 32, he transitioned from football to focus entirely on competitive fishing, leading to his first major final in the Maver Match This in 2016. Since then, he’s consistently qualified for top-tier events, including FishNorth 2024.

In March 2025, Dave joined Garbolino UK, aligning with a brand that complements his methodical approach to the sport. He also represents Catchy Bait, favouring red maggots in winter and casters in summer. His preferred venues include Lindholme Lakes, Partridge Lakes, The Oaks Sessay, and Barnburgh Lakes, where he employs tactics like shallow caster fishing for big F1s.

Beyond the bank, Dave leads a dual life as a crime scene investigator, balancing a demanding career with his passion for angling. His unique perspective and experiences were highlighted in a 2024 episode of the Fishing Gurus Podcast, where he discussed the parallels between forensic science and competitive fishing.