Kris Hickson - Team Captain
For Manning Valley resident Kris, fishing plays a part in all aspects of life.
Aug 8, 2026
Hometown - Taree, NSW
Local waterway - Manning River
Years Tournament Fishing / Species targeted over the years - 20+ - Bream, Bass, Barra, Cod, Large Mouth Bass, Snakehead.
World Championship Appearances - 2026 will be #5
International Results - Third in 2025 South Africa, Second in 2024 Italy, Second, 2019 South Africa and other miscellaneous results in Korea, China and Malaysia
Winning Largemouth Set Up - Daiwa Tatula 100XH, Daiwa Tatula 722MRB, 12lb Daiwa Flurocarbon
Tell us a little about yourself.
I manage a marine and tackle store - Manning River Marine - that has been in the family for over 40 years. I grew up in Taree, shifted around a bit after school but settled in Port Macquarie area for 15 years now back in the Manning Valley, there's no place like home.
If I'm not out on the water, I'm either at work or spending time with the family exploring the beach or the bush, there's no sitting still for the Hicksons!
How did your fishing journey begin?
I started fishing from the moment I could hold a rod. I come from a fishing family and spend a lot of weekends and holidays fishing with my old man and grandfather, mainly for bream and flatty's at the start but expanded my horizons as time went on.
I fished the local RSL club competitions as a kid and then got into more serious tournaments at around 16 when I tagged a long with a few of Dads mates.
What does representing Australia mean to you?
It's Massive. Sometimes I think I take it a little for granted as there's a lot of time organising the tours but once we are there on that stage, it all kicks in and there's definitely a great sense of pride. It's also amazing to be able to share that with a good bunch of blokes that are real mates.
What achievement in fishing are you most proud of?
It hasn't come yet, it will be when we finally win a World Championship!
What are you most looking forward to about competing in the USA?
100% most looking forward to saying I have fished against KVD (Kevin Van Dam), the GOAT of tournament bass fishing.
Favourite Fishing Destination in the World - Every one I get to go to next.
Bucket List Fish - PNG Black bass
Favourite Fishing Snack - Nuts
Dream Fishing Partner (Living or Past) - Another one of myself that can remember everything I've learned over the last 40 years 🤣