About 30 boats are set to feature in the annual CITC Woodstock Fishing Competition today.

The competition organised by the Cook Islands Game Fishing Club is one of the major events in their annual calendar.

This year’s event marks the fourth year of partnership between CITC Liquor which has combined with Woodstock NZ to sponsor the competition.

Club manager Sharon William said CITC Liquor on their own has sponsored the Fishing Club for many, many years.

“Prizes are over $4500 worth including BBQs, water blasters, gazebos, folding tables and lots of Woodstock products,” William said.

“The president, weigh master, executive committee, management and all the skippers are truly grateful and appreciative of CITC Liquor and Woodstock NZ’s continued support for sponsoring our fishing competition.

“Without their support this event would not be the success it is.”

CITC Liquor manager April Revake said: “We’re proud to be supporting the Fishing Club again this year, with our fourth annual Woodstock Bourbon Fishing Competition.”

“We have some great prizes up for grabs and we hope to see some big whoppers reeled in.

“It’s been a tough year for our local fishermen, so we’re looking forward to bringing some cheer close to the Christmas season. Meitaki ngao Woodstock Bourbon for your continued support, and Sharon and the Fishing Club Team for the delivery of an awesome event.”

Defending champion Tearoa (Boof) Mare who hooked the winning fish out from the seawall on boat Ikurangi using an island lure to claim the top prize at last year’s competition, will be back to defend his title.

It took Mare 45 minutes to reel in the 165.6 kg marlin last year.

Twenty-nine boats registered for last year’s tournament that weighed in a total of 751.4kg fish.