Tough going in Latvia – but inspiration for the future

The 2026 Women’s Carp World Championships turned out to be a baptism of fire for Team Wales – but not without hope for the future.

It was brutally tough going for Wales in what was a relentless 72-hour marathon on Lake Balote in Latvia, with four of the six team members fishing at a worlds for the first time.

Only two – captain Jackie Potts and Lowri Wilkes – were returning from last year, while both also fished the worlds at the same venue in Latvia in 2024.

Jackie was paired with Chloe Thomas in A4, Lowri teamed up with Bethan Storer (C8) with Harriet Fossett and Lindsay Lloyd-Jones drawn in B6.

The team were managed in Latvia at short notice by recent Men’s Home Nations winning team member Steve Grimley, assisted by Mike Ryan.

In the end, Wales finished in 8^th place. Ukraine took the title and congratulations to England on team silver and their team members Ellen Beedham and Kayleigh Dowd Smith who have been crowned individual world champions.

“Tough going for sure,” said Steve.

“Having only been asked if I’d help out with the team shortly before the comp, there was little time to prepare and get to know the team, or the abilities of the four new ladies before we set off.

“On the draw the team pulled A4, B6 and C8; A and B were both central in their sections with very few features other than marginal reeds.

“Both pairs had a real battle to attract fish to their baited spots from among the other anglers, but they dug deep and caught several fish from both sections.

“C8 looked an amazing peg on the end of their section – it turned out to be a new peg that was full of weed that had been recently cut, making presentation difficult. The ladies chose appropriate rigs to present baits and also caught fish in their section.

“A steep learning curve was hit head on by the whole team. Lessons were learned, mistakes were made, plans were made and inspiration was flowing to aid bettering the team for the future.”

Meanwhile after what was her last match for Team Wales before retiring, Jackie added: “It was a very hard three days and, unfortunately, we got it wrong.

“The girls are exhausted and I couldn’t be more proud of them.

“We as a team would like to congratulate our neighbours Team England achieving a silver medal, and Ellen and Kayleigh getting a well-deserved individual gold medal.

“Last match for me as I am retiring from Team Wales

“I hope they continue to improve and are inspired to also be aiming for that gold medal.”

Thank you Jackie, for your contribution to Team Wales and women’s carp fishing.

Jackie, left, is retiring from Team Wales.