The first stage of the new nationwide BoatLife Fishing Championship has crowned its winners.

The competition took place in Conwy, gathering both local anglers and well-known brands such Suzuki and Mustang Survival, who battled for an array of prizes and esteemed trophies over the weekend.

The Angling Trust team took home the first victory of the competition on Saturday, June 22, winning a first place medal for the largest number of varied species caught.

The following day saw more trials, this time it was Suzuki scooping up the first-place medal in the branded teams category while team Lazybones won the Privateers Competition.

Overall, the trophy for the Conwy stage winner went to Small Boats Sea Fishing who is also leading the Championship as it moves to its next stage at Cowes on July 13 and 14.

Catch of the day - 11-year-old Efan Hutchinson wins the prize for longest fish.  (Image: BoatLife)

In an unexpected turn, the award for the longest fish caught went to 11-year-old Efan Hutchinson.

Surpassing all professional teams and privateers, the young talent reeled in a significant 107cm long Bullhuss.

Suzuki team captain, Will Parkinson, shared his infectious enthusiasm, saying: "Just epic!

"I have fished loads of competitions but never has it been so much fun and felt like a family out fishing."

Young and old alike were kept entertained throughout the competition with shore-side activities that included a treasure hunt around Conwy Marina, a colouring competition for the young attendees, and a fishing simulator for those wanting to experience the excitement of the sport.

An evening party incorporating a prize-giving ceremony offered a chance for competitors and attendees, including the RNLI, to come together in celebration.

Proud trophy winners, William Roswell and Clive Carter, whose Lazybones team won the Privateers competition in the new national BoatLife Fishing Championship at Conwy  (Image: BoatLife)

In the lead-up to the competition, the brand teams visited Ysgol Porth Y Felin Primary School in Conwy.

The visits presented pupils with the opportunity to explore professional fishing boats, view advanced fishing gear and learn more about sustainable fishing practices and environmental preservation.

Offering his congratulations to the winners, Richard Dove, CEO of BoatLife hoped participants took away more than their victories, saying: "This was a truly fantastic weekend for visitors and everyone in the Conwy community.

"It provided a great opportunity to involve people in the sport, make new friends, promote environmental sustainability and showcase all this area has to offer."