A FISHING competition which is set to launch in the Solent next month has announced an array of partnerships with major companies.

The Sea Angling Classic which will begin in the Solent with its launch event on July 23 and July 25 has received backing backing from angling brands Daiwa Sports, Rapala and Storm plus boat insurance specialist Pantaenius UK and Barrus.

The event is expected to reel in around 1,200 anglers and up to 400 boats next year for the first major Sea Angling Classic event.

Event founder, Ross Honey, said it is fantastic to have more “top global brands” back the classic.

“The Sea Angling Classic is going an angling legacy in the making and has a very important role in making the direct link in-between recreational angling and respect for the environment. This is the beginning of a very exciting journey.”

More than 100,000 boat and yacht owners are said to place their trust in the Pantaenius brand and Mike Wimbridge, managing director, said: “Not only does this initiative bring together some of the finest sea anglers to compete in our local waters but it also promotes valuable environmental activities, such as the beach clean programme, which encourage younger people to make a difference.”

Barrus, operates across four market sectors - marine, garden, industrial and vehicle - and is said to be a “leading” importer and distributor of engines, engine-powered equipment, garden tools and accessories.

Ben Allen, general manager, said: “We see this as a long-term partnership building year to year, with the opportunity of promoting other relevant brands from our extensive portfolio.

“We are excited to partner with the Sea Angling Classic – a partnership that not only offers the chance to showcase Mercury’s innovative outboards providing anglers with a competitive edge but also to be associated with the events environmental awareness projects, and initiatives involving the next generation of anglers.”

For more information, go to seaanglingclassic.com