SBS BoatLife 2023: changes afoot for next show

SBS BoatLife 2023, running 16-19 February 2023 at NEC Birmingham, will introduce a dedicated fishing village in association with Reel Masters at next year’s event.

Both organisations say they have a shared vision to open up the fishing market to new followers, and the SBS BoatLife show presents an excellent opportunity to experience that.

The new fishing village will include stands from the UK’s largest boat angling competitions, boats, equipment and a stage area. The inaugural show, held in February 2022, was heralded a success with positive sales and many exhibitors rebooking.

Richard Dove, MD, BoatLife Events, says: “Fishing is a perfect fit with our exhibitor base as many of the boats are used for that sport. Reel Masters are experienced in this field, and we are pleased to work with the event team to develop the village. We hope the partnership will encourage many more visitors to come and meet up at BoatLife.”

Reel Masters is the UK’s first exhibition and competition for saltwater and lure anglers and is open from 30 September to 2 October 2022. The show, held at the Weymouth Pavilion, will have boats, terminal tackle and everything in between. Friday and Saturday will see a branded boat competition on the water for brands to compete in a friendly rivalry. Saturday also gives SIB owners the chance to bring their boat, head out on the water, and attend the skipper’s ball in the evening with live music and local food.

Oliver Taylor, director of Reel Masters, says: “Partnering with BoatLife enables Reel Masters to promote fishing to a broader base and will encourage more people to engage in the sport. Reel Masters is all about inclusion and spreading the love of fishing.”