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The addition of a new sponsor to add to its blue chip line-up of boat brands has underlined the status of the Predatortour as the premier event on Europe’s tournament fishing calendar.
Boston Whaler – one of the world’s top suppliers of fishing boats – has joined fellow Brunswick duo Lund Boats and Mercury as prestigious backers of the event.
Over the last decade the tournament has enjoyed consistent growth, evolving from a niche competition to an event which now sustains two tournaments in the Netherlands (the European Championship) and Scandinavia (the Scandinavian Championship) – events that attract more than 250 teams from all over Europe.
The tournament is the brainchild of founder Evert Oostdam (above, left). He told Angling International: “I was fishing with some friends in Norway and was concerned to be told about a pike fishing tournament where all the fish were killed before being weighed. It gave me the spur to introduce a competition which promoted catch and release and respect for the environment. In 2009 the Predatortour was born.”
A strong conservation message runs throughout the tournament. Oostdam explained: “As well as catch and release, all tackle is lead-free and the hooks barbless, ensuring that all fishing is conducted with the utmost respect paid to nature.
“By promoting catch and release, the event not only protects fish stocks, but also educates participants and spectators about sustainable fishing methods, reinforcing sportfishing’s role as a responsible and rewarding pastime.”
What also distinguishes the Predatortour is its embrace of modern technology and audience engagement. Live streaming allows fans to follow every twist and turn in real time, while a dedicated app keeps competitors and supporters up to date with scores, news and interactive features.
“The tournament’s participant-focused model ensures that every angler feels valued, creating a strong sense of community and involvement.”
Oostdam says that sponsorship has played a pivotal role in Predatortour’s evolution. “From the outset, we have been able to attract support from leading brands with our long-term partners – Humminbird, Minn Kota, Mercury, Lund Boats, Flambeau, Ursuit and CWC – setting the stage for a growing portfolio of trade partners.
“Today, major names in the fishing industry back the tournament, recognising the value as a showcase for new products and a platform for connecting with dedicated anglers. The evolution of sponsorship has not only enhanced the event’s profile but also contributed to its long-term sustainability.
“Trade backing is now very important, enabling the Predatortour to innovate and invest in new features that benefit both participants and the wider angling community. This support strengthens the reputation of the event and ensures that it remains at the forefront of sportfishing in Europe.”
Oostdam adds that another important reason for the success of the Predatortour is listening. “We are in constant dialogue with both our partners and participants. We try to improve and make every event better than the previous one. Investing in the future is important to us.”
Oostdam also has lofty ambitions for the future. “I want it to be the biggest ambassador for sportfishing – leading by example on conservation and catch and release so that the next generation can enjoy the sport as we do.”
