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Held from September 21 to 26, 2026, in Hellevoetsluis, the World Predator Classic once again brought together some of Europe?s top boat-based predator fishing specialists. Anglers representing 14 countries competed on the renowned waters of the Haringvliet and the Hollands Diep.
Pike, zander, and perch were at the heart of the strategies. Over the course of three days, every decision could affect the standings: choosing fishing spots, moving around, selecting lures, and searching for fish that could yield those precious centimeters.
Three races, three French victories
This edition will be remembered above all for the dominance of Stéphane Poincot and Armaud Michaud. The French crew achieved a rare feat by winning each of the three days of competition.
The result: The French team finished with a perfect score of 3 points, setting a new World Predator Classic record, according to the organizers. It was an impressive display of consistency in an international competition where even the slightest mistake can cost a team many places.
Behind them, the Germans Tim Ackermann and Philipp Geibel took second place with 7 points. Todd Kranenborg and Lars Bennis rounded out the podium with 14 points. They finished ahead of Jelle de Jong and Mitchell Croese, who also had 14 points.
2026 World Predator Classic Standings
1%E2euros%93 Stéphane Poincot / Armaud Michaud (France): 3 points
2%E2euros%93 Tim Ackermann / Philipp Geibel (Germany): 7 points
3%E2euros%93 Todd Kranenborg / Lars Bennis: 14 points
4%E2euros%93 Jelle de Jong / Mitchell Croese: 14 points
5%E2euros%93 Romain Winschermann / Ludovic Pinchede (France): 21 points
The French performance was not limited to the victory, however. Romain Winschermann and Ludovic Pinchede finished fifth, while several other French crews made the official standings.
A record-breaking pike measuring 131 cm
The fish also added to the spectacle. The organizers reported, among other things, the catch of a 131-centimeter pike, a new WPC record. Several very large perch were also recorded, with fish measuring 51, 52, and even 53 centimeters.
These catches once again demonstrate the exceptional potential of Dutch waters for predator fishing.
A Historic 2026 Tournament for the French
With three wins in three days and just three points in the final standings, Stéphane Poincot and Armaud Michaud made a spectacular entry into the World Predator Classic?s record books.
In the face of particularly fierce international competition, their victory also serves as a fine demonstration of the level achieved by French competitors in modern predator fishing.
The 2026 World Predator Classic thus comes to a close with an event full of record-breaking catches and outstanding performances, as the French national anthem rings out in Hellevoetsluis and two French anglers stand on the top step of the podium.
