LEGENDS IN MY LIFETIME • VOLUME ONE
Tommy Pickering
The Champion Who Kept Giving
A Champion On and Off the Bank
Tommy Pickering is one of the great characters of international match fishing. From his early working days as a South Kirkby coal miner to becoming an individual World Champion, his career is a remarkable story of talent, determination and dedication.
He won the individual World Championship in Bulgaria in 1989 and went on to add the Veterans World Championship to his achievements. His contribution to the sport continued long after his greatest individual victories, including his work managing England’s international feeder team.
I have known Tommy through the international match-fishing world for many years. What has always impressed me is that, despite all his achievements, he has remained one of the sport’s most approachable and enthusiastic personalities.
“A young Tommy Pickering, centre front, proudly displaying his trophies alongside fellow anglers at an early awards presentation. A glimpse of the young Kirkby angler, long before he became a World Champion.”
A Remarkable Angling Career
- 1989 Individual World Champion – Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- World Veterans Champion
- England international match angler
- England international feeder team manager
- Former South Kirkby coal miner
- A long-standing figure in the international match-fishing community
My Memories of Tommy
Some anglers are remembered for their trophies, while others are remembered just as much for their personalities. Tommy is fortunate enough to belong to both groups.
His friendship and fishing partnership with Denis White, affectionately known as “Fatha”, are part of the wonderful stories surrounding the Barnsley match-fishing scene. Their success together, including a memorable pairs victory, is another reminder of the friendships that make this sport so special.
When Tommy first heard that I had written a musical tribute to him, his reaction was one of genuine surprise. It was a lovely moment, and exactly the kind of response that makes this project worthwhile.
Pals for life, Tommy & Denis
THE STORY BEHIND THE MUSIC
Why I Wrote This Song
I wrote this song for Tommy Pickering because his contribution to match fishing goes far beyond winning a World Championship. From the coal mines of Yorkshire to the highest level of international competition, his journey is a remarkable example of what determination and dedication can achieve.
But Tommy’s story is also about friendship, loyalty and giving something back to the sport. His connection with Denis White and his continuing involvement in international fishing make him a true character of our angling generation. I wanted this tribute to celebrate not just the champion, but the man behind the medals.
— Clive Branson
THE MUSICAL TRIBUTE
Tommy Pickering – The Champion Who Kept Giving
An original musical tribute celebrating a World Champion, a Yorkshire character and a lifetime devoted to match fishing.
Listen to the Song
THE COMPLETE STORY
Discover More in the Book
This page offers just a glimpse of Tommy Pickering’s remarkable angling career. The expanded Legends in My Lifetime book will explore more of the stories, personalities and personal memories behind the champions.
The book and original musical tribute collection will be available as the project develops.
Continue the Journey
Discover the Complete Legends Collection
Tommy’s tribute is part of a much larger celebration of the anglers, champions and characters who have shaped my life in fishing.
Discover the book and explore the music collection on CD, USB and digital download.
EXPLORE THE LEGENDS COLLECTION →
The Anglers • The Stories • The Memories • The Music