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WHAT’S ON AT ICAST? 

Your in-depth guide 

to the world’s biggest 

sportfishing show. 

PAGE 22 

SUNSHINE STATE 

Why Florida is a great place 

to sell your fishing tackle. 

PAGE 34 

FEMALE ANGLERS 

COULD ADD $1 BILLION 

TO INDUSTRY COFFERS 

Increasing women’s 

participation in fishing in 

the US alone could bring 

in an additional $1 billion in 

revenue to the sportfishing 

industry. 

According to new research 

from the Recreational Boating 

& Fishing Foundation (RBFF) 

and research experts Southwick 

Associates, female anglers 

represent a significant revenue 

opportunity for the fishing 

industry. 

The research, which was 

conducted to learn more about 

the financial impact of increasing 

female angler participation, 

concluded that just a 10 per 

cent increase in females taking 

up fishing could provide an 

additional $1 billion in revenue. 

This means each additional 

female participant is worth 

nearly $1,000 in annual revenue 

to the trade. 

RBFF President and CEO 

Dave Chanda explained: “We 

know through research that 

recruiting and retaining female 

anglers is critical to growing 

fishing and boating participation 

overall. 

“The bottom line is, increasing 

female fishing participation is 

also good for business, and the 

industry stands to benefit greatly 

from focusing more on this 

growing audience.” 

The study also revealed how 

it may be important to focus 

efforts geographically in the US. 

For example, women in the 

south and Midwest regions both 

spent around $3.5 billion each 

(over $7 billion total) on fishing. 

In the Midwest, female 

anglers each spent an average of 

$1,106 annually, yet in the south, 

they spent an annual average of 

$796 per person. 

Despite the strong female 

angler representation in the 

Midwest, saltwater fishing 

has emerged as a driving force 

behind the financial stimulus 

female anglers bring to the 

industry. 

In 2021, female saltwater 

anglers spent more per 

capita than female freshwater 

anglers – $3.7 billion versus $6.6 

billion, respectively. 

Women also spent relatively 

more on special equipment 

including vehicles, boats, real 

estate, and more for saltwater 

fishing compared to freshwater 

fishing (35 per cent compared to 

22 per cent). 

The research coincides with 

the recent launch by RBFF 

of its Take Me Fishing “Find 

Your Best Self On The Water” 

campaign. 

This aims to help women 

uncover the life-changing 

benefits of fishing and boating. 

Based on extensive research, 

this integrated marketing 

program will create awareness 

of fishing and boating among 

diverse new audiences and 

motivate participation. 

• Continued on page 12 

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JULY 

2023 

TackleTrade 


EDITORIAL 

Editor: 

John Hunter 

+44 7990 542958 

john.hunter@dhpub.co.uk 

A journalist all his life and with 20-plus years 

of international business magazine experience, 

John was the founding editor of TTW and has 

now returned to the helm. He has helped 

many brands launch and grow over the years 

through B2B publications and via his own 

consultancy business. 

Co-Editor: 

David Haynes 

THE LIFEBLOOD 

OF OUR 

INDUSTRY 

04 

+44 7766 263908 

david.haynes@dhpub.co.uk 

A lifelong angler, David has tried his hand 

at most types of fishing and is a great 

accumulator of tackle and now focuses on 

competition fishing. Having worked at DHP for 

the last 18 years on every title in the company’s 

portfolio, he brings a wealth of knowledge and 

experience to the editorial team. 

ADVERTISING 

North America: 

Bart Manganiello 

+1 914 722 7601 

bartalm@optonline.net 

For over 38 years, Bart has been working with 

trade magazines, 34 in the tackle industry. 

Since 2001, he has been TTW’s North American 

Director, providing the best communication 

programs to companies, helping them connect 

with current and prospective trade partners 

around the world. 

Rest Of The World: 

Guido Knegt 

+39 3475036436 

guido.knegt@dhpub.co.uk 

A born and bred Dutchman, he spent five 

years travelling the world as a scuba-diving 

instructor and English teacher before settling 

down in Sardinia. Guido previously worked for 

TTW between 2014 and 2017. 

China: Robert Li 

Li Ziwei 

+86 13451914155 

robert.li365@gmail.com 

Li Ziwei (Robert) has been working as news 

editor for over 20 years. He founded the most 

influential Chinese fishing forum in the Straits 

and successfully organised many industry 

events. His love for culture and tourism has led 

him to devote his entire life to the exchanges 

between China and southeast Asia. 

Magazine Manager 

Justin Fox 

+44 7813 327966 

justin.fox@dhpub.co.uk 

A hugely experienced communicator with 

more than 20 years at parent company DHP, 

Justin knows what it takes to grow brands 

and businesses across the tackle sector. 

Art Editor: Paul Evans 

Editorial Design: Brad Sharp 

DHP LTD 

Editorial, administration, subscriptions and 

accounts to: DHP Ltd, 1st Floor, Nene House, 

Sopwith Way, Daventry, NN11 8EA, UK 


As many of us, most notably in 

the US but increasingly, from 

around the globe, head to 

ICAST this month ( July), I continue to 

marvel at those who attend these events. 

For the manufacturers and brands, 

it’s a massive outlay – not only in terms 

of booth space and design but product 

innovation, staffing and travel, not 

to mention the impact of taking your 

dedicated team out of the office or ‘off 

the road’ for a week. 

It’s also a huge leap of faith for 

distributors and retailers. Again, the 

costs of travel to – and hotels in – 

Orlando can be high and then there’s 

the impact on your shop while you 

are out of town, not to mention the 

hospitality you might wish to indulge in 

while you are there! 

So why do it? 

Well, there are several answers to this 

and many of the reasons have been put 

forward eloquently by exhibitors and 

retailers in the American Sportfishing 

Association’s ICAST columns here in 

TTW over recent months in the build 

up to the show. 

Certainly, the opportunity to 

showcase new products to a huge 

number of visitors – not to mention the 

chance for retailers to see all the latest 

gear in one place – is pretty compelling, 

especially when it’s on the scale of a 

show like ICAST. 

Then there’s all the seemingly 

peripheral but also important events 

like dealer seminars and information 

to boost your business, along with 

3,511 

6,466 

fun elements like On The Water, the 

ICAST Cup, Happy Hours and more. 

But I guess the most important reason 

for me – outside of seeing new gear, 

which is after all the lifeblood of the 

industry and keeps the magazine pages 

filled each month – is simply to meet 

with like-minded people, reconnect with 

old friends and make new ones. 

My first ICAST was almost 20 years 

ago but, having moved away from TTW 

for quite some time, I really missed all 

those people. 

Returning last year was great – and 

I reconnected with a number of old 

pals and acquaintances as well as 

meeting plenty of new people while 

understanding more about their 

businesses and how TTW can help them 

grow. 

So as I pack my bags for ICAST, 

of course I’ll be looking forward to 

a casting a line at some bass in Lake 

Toho, sharing a relaxing drink by 

the pool at the Rosen after hours, or 

catching up with pals in a restaurant 

downtown. 

But I’ll also be eager to see all that 

new gear and talk about all the ways 

TTW can help it reach an even wider 

audience around the globe as well as 

learning all about your brands. 

If you are at ICAST 2023, myself, 

Bart and John M look forward to 

catching up. I wish you safe travels and 

a successful show. 

John Hunter 

Editor

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JULY 


Contents 

22 

12 NEWS 

Iconic Australian reel brand Alvey is saved, 

there are key appointments at Mustad and 

Rather Outdoors, while Daiwa honours its US 

sales reps. 

22 MAKE THE MOST OF ICAST 2023 

Your in-depth guide to the world’s largest 

sportfishing trade show, so you don’t miss a 

thing if you are visiting the event in Orlando. 

28 SPOTLIGHT ON… TACKLE STORAGE 

Anglers love to take plenty of kit on their trips 

but how do they transport it securely and 

stay organised on the bank or in the boat? 

30 SHOP WINDOW 

We have some suggestions for the gear you 

could stock to keep your customers happy 

when it comes to storage solutions for their 

tackle. 

32 BRINGING HOOK TECHNOLOGY TO 

THE MARKET 

Mustad is attacking multiple sport fishing 

segments with an extensive series of saltand 

freshwater hooks, all featuring advanced 

technologies. 

32 DOING BUSINESS WITH… FLORIDA 

Arguably one of the world’s finest fishing 

destinations, the Sunshine State is home 

to big fish, major brands and, of course, the 

ICAST show. 

38 MAKING CONTACT 

More products from global suppliers that 

will be worth adding to your outlet’s shelves 

over the coming months. 

40 SOMETHING TO GET YOUR TEETH 

INTO 

Since 1999, Carr Specialty Baits, Inc. has been 

revolutionising the fishing industry with 

its game-changing brand of baits called 

Fishbites. 

42 THE RIGHT APPROACH TO 

WATERCRAFT 

Adventure-angling watercraft just got an 

upgrade thanks to NRS’ Approach Series, 

10 www.tackletradeworld.com 

helping make those out-of-the-way spots 

more accessible. 

44 SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS EMERGES 

If you are focused on having a sustainable 

business then Rick Crawford and his 

Emerger Strategies company could help 

guide you on the path to success. 

46 PANTHER MARTIN CELEBRATES 

WITH LURES 

Marking its 66th anniversary in 2024, 

Panther Martin is unveiling six exciting lures 

alongside new versions of fan favourites. 

48 EXCITING CHAPTER FOR ANGLERS 

RESOURCE 

Under new ownership, the exclusive 

distributor of Fuji products in North America 

details several key items that will be 

launched at ICAST 2023. 

50 ROSCO CELEBRATES ‘MADE IN 

AMERICA’ 

Rome Specialty Co (ROSCO) is pressing for 

more US-manufactured fishing tackle and 

has created a specific program to support this. 

52 WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR… GLASSES 

Flying Fisherman has solved the problem 

of losing your sunglasses overboard with a 

range of floating models. 

54 MARKING 30 YEARS OF INNOVATION 

It’s been three decades since Simms 

unveiled its Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable 

waders but the innovation continues… 

56 WHY YOU CAN COUNT ON SEVIIN 

SEVIIN is the very latest reel brand and it has 

been born with the DNA of St Croix Rods, 

guaranteeing quality and performance in 

every model. 

58 EXCELLENCE AND QUALITY 

Brazilian line manufacturer Mazzaferro has 

been producing top quality products for 70 

years and is still growing. 

40 

28 

54 

60 RAPID SOLUTIONS FOR MODERN 

ANGLERS 

Energofish thrives on product development. 

Its Benzar Mix Jetty Adapter and its Rapid 

Method Kits, for example, make fishing 

better. 

62 BRINGING A NICHE TO THE 

MAINSTREAM 

The backing of PRADCO looks set to help 

Great Lakes Finesse take its techniques and 

baits for pressured fish to a much wider 

audience. 

68 EUROPEAN FLY SHOW LANDS 

SUCCESS 

The European EWF fly fishing show 

returned to Germany in triumph, with 

thousands of anglers in attendance. We 

bring you a full report. 

70 FISH MONKEY SOCKS IT TO ’EM 

With a successful range of gloves, the brand 

is now targeting the sock market while 

boosting the offerings in its core sector. 

72 ST CROIX REVEALS MORE MOJO 

The next-generation Mojo Bass TRIGON 

series rods are said to represent a significant 

evolution in design, innovation and 

individuality. 

74 LAST CAST 

Lucas Bissett, AFFTA’s executive director, 

explains how the Confluence event in 

September will bring the entire fly fishing 

community together.

Super 

Heat Dissipation 

 

 

 

Super 

Low-Friction 

Super 

Hardness 

Super 

Lightness

Female anglers could add 

$1 billion to industry coffers 

• Continued from page 6 

RBFF senior vice-president of marketing 

and communications, Stephanie Vatalaro, 

said: “Women are the gateway to the 

greatest growth in fishing and boating 

participation. The opportunity is clear. 

“Research shows women do most of the 

family activity planning and drive 85 per 

cent of consumer spending decisions. Most 

kids fish with mums more than with dads 

and brands who put women front and 

centre in their advertising are held in 

higher regard by both women and men.” 

The business opportunity is also clear. 

A 2022 Southwick Associates study found 

the average female angler in the US spends 

$962 each year on sport fishing gear and 

services. 

The “Find Your Best Self ” campaign is 

based on research by IPSOS in 2002 that 

showed that women who fish are happier 

Suzuki Marine open 

Flordia tech centre 

Suzuki Marine USA has 

completed the development of 

a 20-acre waterfront property 

in Panama City, Florida, as its 

state-of-the-art Marine Technical 

Centre. 

The site includes a 9,037sq 

ft. main building providing 

office space, conference rooms, 

technical/service bays, inside 

boat storage and other important 

equipment. There are additional 

buildings, a private launch ramp 

with docks and a 300ft protective 

seawall. 

The grand opening event 

brought together Suzuki staff 

from its Tampa, Florida corporate 

headquarters, select dealers 

and boatbuilding partners, 

local dignitaries, Suzuki Motor 

Corporation VIPs and members 

of the boating press. 

Among those in attendance 

were Mr Shuichi Mishima, 

executive general manager of 

Marine Operations for Suzuki 

Motor Corporation in Japan; 

State of Florida Chief Financial 

Officer Jimmy Patronis and 

City of Panama Mayor Greg 


and healthier. Conceived and developed by 

a women-led team, the campaign shows 

female anglers experiencing the benefits 

of fishing and boating first-hand, using 

a mix of 60- and 30-second ads, public 

service announcements, print, digital, and 

social media extensions, integrated media 

partnerships, influencer partnerships, and 

earned media activations. 

RBFF senior director of marketing, 

Rachel Piacenza, added: “Campaign testing 

showed the new ads motivated both women 

and men to go fishing, so we’re excited to 

see how both audiences interact with the 

campaign this summer. ‘Find Your Best 

Self on the Water’ strives to accurately and 

inclusively depict women in fishing, ideally 

inspiring more females to feel comfortable 

trying this life-enhancing activity.” 

Despite record levels of female 

Brudnicki. 

Following tours of the facility, 

attendees also took demonstration 

rides on a variety Suzuki-powered 

boats and explored the property 

from the water. 

George ‘Gus’ Blakely, Suzuki 

Marine executive vice-president, 

sales and service, said: “Thanks 

to hard work and cooperation 

between Suzuki Marine and 

government agencies, Panama 

City will henceforth be known 

as a leading source of marine 

industry innovation and an 

epicentre of new outboard motor 

development. 

“We recognised early on this 

was the ideal location for us to 

achieve our goals and – while it 

wasn’t easy – the final result has 

proved us right.” 

Among the products and 

innovations being endurance 

tested and evaluated was 

Suzuki’s innovative Micro Plastic 

Collecting device, which integrates 

with the engine’s cooling system 

to remove micro plastic pollution 

from the water as the boat is 

driven. 

Buyer reels in Alvey 

brand to secure its future 

www.gowings.com 

participation in fishing, the activity still has 

a long way to go toward welcoming women. 

The IPSOS study revealed that 43 per 

cent of female anglers do not feel respected 

by the fishing community and one in four 

believe negative stereotypes exist about 

women’s ability to fish. 

Lack of representation is intimidating 

and prohibitive for at least one in every four 

female anglers, and women of colour tend 

to agree even more with this statement. 

RBFF‘s campaign aims to confront 

these barriers and inspire every woman in 

this nation to challenge themselves to try 

something new to help them find their 

best self while supporting a more inclusive 

fishing and boating community. 

takemefishing.org/find-your-best-self 

After 102 years of manufacturing side cast reels and accessories but 

with its future on the line, iconic Australian brand Alvey Reels has 

been purchased by Gowing Bros, itself a longstanding Australian 

name. 

Alvey’s recent history has been tough, with two close calls as it 

nearly went out of business in 2018 and again in 2022 but now 

Gowing Bros, which has been trading since 1868 in Australia and, 

as a retailer, was once a reel customer, has brought the story almost 

full circle. 

Managing director John Gowing saw this as an opportunity to 

save an iconic Australian brand and, with his expert team, revitalise 

and modernise the manufacturing facility to keep the brand alive for 

another 100 years. 

Alvey is the only company in the world manufacturing the famous 

side cast reel and has supplied its products for 102 years. 

This is a specialist reel for beach anglers in particular as it is the 

only one that can be buried in beach sand, washed out in salt water 

and then continue to be used for fishing. 

Thee reels are extremely sensitive to fish bites as the line passes 

through the angler’s finger, allowing all bites and line movement to 

be felt. Accurate long-distance casts are easy, with an Alvey helping 

beach anglers get out to where they want to fish. 

John explained: “ We saw an opportunity to keep an icon in 

Australian hands. Gowings also owns FCS, an iconic surfing brand 

and we think Alvey would complement our interests in ocean sport. 

“Philosophically, we want to encourage sustainable enjoyment of 

our seas and oceans. Demonstrating this commitment is our ‘1% For 

The Oceans ’ pledge, with proceeds going to the Gowings Whale 

Trust, which aims to fund positive change in our oceans.”

Daiwa US honours 

its own for sales 

achievements 

FOAMANIZERS 

Daiwa NSM ‘Summit’ Award winners 

Daiwa US’ focus on new 

products and market share gains 

within independent tackle shops 

required serious input from its 

sales reps and it has once again 

honoured some of those who 

helped it achieve success in the 

past year. 

Daiwa’s key recognition is 

its ‘Summit’ awards, which this 

year went to Jeff Allen with 

Ferguson-Keller Associates, 

Graywood Sporting Group, 

Jackson Gillaspie with Rogers 

Sports Marketing and Warren 

McRae with Graywood. 

In being recognised with 

the ‘Summit Outstanding 

Leadership’ award, Daiwa’s 

regional sales manager Greg 

Johnson noted Jeff Allen’s 

personal success in growing 

his own accounts in tough 

economic times and also the 

assistance he provides to not 

only other Ferguson-Keller 

reps, but also other Daiwa 

reps groups through his 

responsibilities with buying 

groups. 

Noting the impact Canadian 

anglers and the Canada tackle 

market has on Daiwa’s overall 

business, especially in the bass 

fishing market over the past 

year, Peterborough, Ontariobased 

Graywood Sporting 

Group was honoured with the 

‘Summit Rep Group’ award 

for the overall impact from the 

entire group for its sales success 

across all Canadian provinces. 

Daiwa president Carey 

Graves noted that ,with Canada 

now having its first Bassmaster 

Classic winner and its first 

angler recognised with a major 

service award from the Bass 

Fishing Hall of Fame, it was 

appropriate for Graywood to be 

acknowledged for their efforts 

also. 

Daiwa’s ‘Summit Dealer 

Development’ award winner 

Jackson Gillaspie with Rogers 

Sports Marketing is a “walking 

textbook on bass fishing, 

and his dealers took a quick 

understanding of his skill set to 

help them manage their Daiwa 

business,” said Daiwa’s Johnson. 

“His support abilities at the 

recent Bassmaster Classic with 

exhibiting tackle dealers brought 

a great deal of success to both 

the dealers and Daiwa’s efforts.” 

Meanwhile, Daiwa’s ‘Summit 

Change Leader’ award winner 

McRae boosted the major role 

the Canadian fishing market has 

on Daiwa’s business, through 

key programs and initiatives, 

including added rod placement, 

in-store event, demo programs 

and being quickest to market 

with new items. 

Others recognised with ‘Key 

Objective’ awards for specific 

product category sales and faster 

-to-market efforts include Brad 

Olson with Ferguson-Keller, 

Drake Hollander with Rogers 

Sports Marketing and Ben 

Babbit, Scott Bynre, and Cale 

Engelage, all with Marschmedt 

& Associates. 

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Industry veterans hook 

up with Mustad brands 

A leader in hooks manufacturing and other 

tackle, Mustad, has landed key industry 

experts in sales and marketing to propel its 

brands to new heights in the Americas. 

Recently placed at the helm, Paul 

Ruda has introduced experienced sales 

professionals and a skilled marketing 

strategist all with proven results at wellknown 

sports fishing brands this May. 

The Americas general manager said: “I 

am honoured and beyond excited for these 

individuals to join our Mustad team in the 

North American market. 

“Their experience and knowledge in the 

diversity of fisheries, regions and the trades 

will help us position our brands for future 

success.” 

With over 27 years of industry 

experience, including 24 years with Pure 

Fishing, Brian Perry brings detailed 

fishing knowledge and a strong network 

of relationships with key retail and 

distribution partners. 

He said: “Nothing is more motivating 

than living out my passion for fishing 

through my career. Ever since I joined 

the industry in retail, I’ve had a neverquenched 

thirst to succeed. 

“Mustad’s respected brands have 

legendary stories and I look forward to 

building upon successes to a whole new 

level.” 

Together with Brian, Dave Wensel 

will divide the US and Canada sales 

responsibilities for its dealer and distributor 

channels. 

His 24 years of tackle trade knowledge 

with firms including Pure Fishing and 

Rather Outdoors will strengthen the sales 

side of the business. 

The new senior regional business 

manager said: “I know fishing and I 

know the business, so joining a house of 

compelling brands with serious ambitions 

in the Americas allows me to shine. 

“With Mustad, LiveTarget and TUF- 

Line, we’ll be able to make powerful moves 

in key segments. 

Vince Minnick joins as national sales 

manager with a 20-year career under his 

belt and will oversee key accounts including 

Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Academy Sports 

and more. 

He said: “My desire to win drives my 

successes in the industry. With a passion for 

product, technique and the art of fishing, I 

excel at introducing and strengthening key 

products at the country’s largest retailers.” 

Meanwhile, Andy Baumbach will bring 

together the 71 years of experience within 

the team as director of marketing. 

With a decade of experience in the 

outdoors including with Plano and House 

of Outdoors, he takes the lead for an omnichannel 

marketing strategy. 

He added: “I’m honoured to come 

alongside this talented group of individuals 

with such tenure in the industry. 

“Our core brands already have a great 

foundation and the trust of fellow anglers 

worldwide. I know that pulling the right 

levers will only lead to greater success.” 

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Why you can trust 

Johnson Outdoors brands 

Johnson Outdoors, the firm behind many outdoor equipment 

and technology brands such as Minn Kota motors, 

Humminbird marine electronics, Cannon downriggers and Old 

Town canoes and kayaks, has been named as one of the USA’s 

most trustworthy companies in consumer goods. 

The annual ranking, now in its second year and announced by 

Newsweek and research partner, Statista, recognises firms that 

have established a culture of transparency and ethical practices, 

with scoring based on customer, investor and employee trust. 

All companies headquartered in the United States with a 

revenue over $500 million were considered, with an independent 

survey featuring around 95,000 submissions, based on customer 

treatment, career development and long-term investment 

opportunities. 

Eventually, the 700 companies with the highest score were 

named Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2023. 

Chairman and CEO Helen Johnson-Leipold said: “At 

Johnson Outdoors, our commitment lies in enabling our 

consumers to experience the awe of the great outdoors for 

generations to come. 

“We consider it our responsibility to enhance every aspect 

of their outdoor experience, from making plans, to researching, 

shopping, and purchasing, to the actual use of our product. 

“As outdoor adventurers ourselves, we leverage our spirited 

heritage and personal expertise to passionately and authentically 

fulfill this commitment. Since our founding in 1970, we have 

been a trusted companion for adventure, and we are thrilled to 

receive this recognition.” 

Thread ad for TTW.indd 1 

5/9/22 9:41 AM

Quantum leap for 

Rather Outdoors 

with key names 

Gary Borland 

Mike Rice 

Rather Outdoors, home to some of the most recognisable 

names in fishing, has added legendary industry veterans Mike 

Rice and Gary Borland to the leadership team of Quantum 

Fishing. 

Rocky Kalsow, president of North America for Rather 

Outdoors, is excited about the appointment of Rice as 

senior vice-president of Quantum and Borland as brand 

management vice-president. 

He said: “Mike and Gary are giants in our industry, men 

who have spent decades developing reputations of integrity 

and exceptionalism. 

“Quantum has been the home of uncompromising quality 

since 1984 and is poised for the next chapter of innovation. I 

am thrilled to have these two on the team.” 

Mike spent his early years fishing the Delaware and the 

Chesapeake Bays and explained: “I have been fishing for as 

long as I can recall, and the very first reel I bought with my 

own money was a Quantum ultralight. 

“Taking on a leadership role in that same brand is an 

incredible honour. This team has its eyes fixed on the future 

and I am looking forward to being a part of that.” 

Gary cut his teeth fishing the east coast of Florida, where 

he guided throughout his early career. He said: “Throughout 

my first years in this industry, I was well-acquainted with the 

reputation and legacy of Quantum. I am excited to join such 

a passionate team and help drive the brand forward.” 

Rocky added: “Quantum has deep roots in fishing and a 

rich heritage that we all respect. But let me be clear, some 

remarkable days lie ahead for this brand. As these two join 

an already exceptional team, our focus remains on innovation, 

and our commitment is to the anglers who depend on 

Quantum.” 

Among the many brands in the Rather Outdoors global 

stable are Lew’s, Strike King, Quantum, Zebco, Fox, Matrix, 

Salmo and Fox Rage. 

www.ratheroutdoors.com

NEWS IN BRIEF 

Garmin’s mixed 

quarter 

Marine electronics expert Garmin 

has reported mixed results for the 

first quarter of 2023. 

It posted a revenue of $1.15 

billion, two per cent down on 

the previous year’s quarter and 

operating income of $197 million, a 

14 per cent decrease compared to 

the same period. But it made gains 

in the marine sector, with figures 

being hit by a drop in general 

outdoor sales. 

Bass and EP closures 

The annual closure for 

Australian bass and estuary perch 

(EP) is now in place in New South 

Wales, Australia, and this runs 

through until the end of August. 

The closure provides protection 

for these key sportfish species as 

they migrate towards saltwater 

for spawning. Both species are 

commercially protected and, 

as such, commercial fishers are 

prohibited from retaining or 

selling them. 

Berger continues to 

serve 

Influential US lobbyist Dan Berger 

has been elected vice-chair of the 

Bonefish and Tarpon Trust board of 

directors, having served on it since 

2017. 

He said: “[The] trust is a leading 

conservation organisation that puts 

a much-needed focus not only on 

environmental protection but also on 

research and advocacy.” 

TRADE SHOCKED 

AT SUDDEN DEATH 

OF MARCEL ULJE 

The tackle industry has been left 

stunned following the sudden passing 

of Marcel Ulje, owner of wholesale 

company Dutch Tackle Company, 

writes Rudy van Duijnhoven. 

Marcel was a well-known figure at 

angling fairs and angling shop open 

days in The Netherlands, where he 

was always tirelessly promoting ‘his’ 

PB Products for carp fishing and 

Rozemeijer tackle for predator fishing, 

among others. 

Marcel was born in Leiden in July 

1970, so he was only 52-years-old. He 

had lived in Groesbeek with his wife and 

three children for a number of years. 

He fished from his earliest childhood, 

according to the website of one of his 

wholesale brands: “I can say that I come 

from an angling family, both my grandfathers 

and even one grandmother were on the water 

with great regularity. Certainly the family on 

my father’s side fished often. 

“As a boy of six, I was first allowed to 

join my father, fishing on Sunday mornings 

with my grandfather and many uncles, in 

one of the many boats on Nieuwkoop. I 

was emphatically told to sit quietly in the 

boat, not to make too much noise and to be 

careful with the rod and other materials. I 

loved it, I was allowed to join the ‘big’ men 

in nature to hook everything that swam. The 

fishing virus had gotten hold of me.” 

“I spent my entire youth fishing. 

Especially the smaller ditches in which 

tench, rudd and carp could be caught on 

Marcel Ulje (right) at Visma 

sight were my favourite and I could not stay 

away from these. 

“When I was able to turn my hobby into 

my job, I really got the predator fishing 

bug. The company I worked for was an Abu 

distributor and reel fishing in particular 

caught my imagination. A simple boat 

was bought and some ‘trolling’ was done 

with Rapala Super Shad Raps and purple 

Magnums. Soon jerkbait fishing also got 

hold of me. Lovely, active fishing... that is 

really my thing.” 

Since 1998, Marcel has been a sales 

representative at Ultimate Hengelsport, 

handling brands such as Nash, Korda, Solar, 

Cygnet Tackle, Gardner, Kryston, Cobra, PB 

Products, Abu and Rapala. 

In early 2000, he joined the same company 

as a product manager. After Ultimate 

Hengelsport ceased operations, Marcel set 

out on his own to develop and sell all kinds 

of products, always in close cooperation with 

an experienced team of anglers. 

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Mikado adds experience to its 

sales team 

Abramis, the fast-growing owner of the Mikado 

brand, has added Robert Welter as sales manager 

for DACH and Benelux regions to further 

drive the sales of the company’s products in the 

northern European markets. 

A long-term industry professional, most 

recently Robert has been working for Zebco 

Europe and is well respected by the trade. His 

experience, contacts and skills will accelerate the 

growth of the company’s sales in the region and 

provide additional support for existing and new 

customers. 

Abramis’s sales director, Jan Kolousek, said: 

“Our growth in Germany and Austria in recent 

years has been very positive but we were aware 

that to accelerate this growth and support our 

existing sales team in the territory we would need 

a respected and talented team leader to direct 

our activities in the region. Robert fits this role 

perfectly with his experience of leading sales 

teams and supporting key customers. We are very 

glad to have persuaded him to join us.” 

General manager Kamil Czerminski added: 

“Our aspiration is to be a leading supplier of 

sport fishing equipment across Europe and 

we know that to achieve this we need key 

personnel in the territories who know the market, 

understand where we need to improve, and give 

us the correct feedback on the market direction 

for the future. 

“In addition to the undoubted impact he will 

make on our German and Austrian business 

Robert can also guide our expansion into the 

Benelux market where he also has considerable 

WYOMING FLY SHOP REOPENS 

Westbank Anglers, a fly shop 

in Wilson, Wyoming, USA, 

has reopened after extensive 

renovations following its takeover 

by a local partnership last year. 

Since the deal went through, 

the owners have taken on a 

comprehensive remodel while 

exploring new partnerships with 

gear manufacturers, with other 

upgrades and additions to come. 

“We look forward to preserving 

the legacy of the brand in its 

current location, while expanding offerings,” 

says Mike Dawes, Westbank’s managing 

partner. 

“One of those offerings is complete and we 

were extremely excited to open up the newly 

Robert Welter 

experience from previous positions.” 

Meanwhile, Robert commented: “Mikado is a 

brand that I have become more and more aware 

of in recent years as a serious competitor. Known 

for its quality products, excellent packaging, 

fast delivery and value for money pricing, it is 

becoming a serious force in the market place. 

“When I visited the company I saw that these 

strengths were supported by an excellent team 

in Poland across product development, logistics, 

marketing and IT. The opportunity to join this 

dynamic team at a time of their international 

growth and development was one that was too 

good to pass up. I am very excited about how I 

can support their ambitions and look forward to 

the journey before us.” 

remodeled fly shop on May 12th.” 

On the day, Westbank Anglers welcomed 

guests and representatives from Farbank, 

Umpqua, Montana 

Fly Company, Airflo, 

and Patagonia. 

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COSTA GEARS UP TO 

CELEBRATE 40 YEARS 

Born on the water in 1983, Costa 

Sunglasses is celebrating 40 years of 

making the best sunglasses on the planet 

and protecting the watery world. 

Whether you’re gearing up for an 

epic tarpon season, just putting the boat 

back in the water or planning your next 

adventure off-the-grid, this summer 

Costa will be toasting 40 years of 

witnessing history and setting its sights 

on the moments yet to come. 

Celebrations kicked off with Costa’s 

newest brand campaign, ‘Water Is Our 

Witness,’ tying together the brand’s 

history and looking forward to its future. 

The campaign features Costa 

ambassadors including offshore 

fisherman Duane Diego, inshore anglers 

and Captains For Clean Water cofounders 

Chris and Sarah Wittman and 

many more. 

Costa senior vice-president Justin 

Cupps said: “With 40 years of 

adventures, Costa’s history books are 

filled with unbelievable moments worth 

celebrating. 

“We’ve come a long way since 1983 – 

bearing witness to 40 years of product 

innovation, working just as hard to 

protect the waters we love as we do 

to embrace them, and growing a loyal 

community that’s just as obsessed with 

the pursuit of those heart-stopping, 

water-filled moments as we are. 

“Over the next few months, we look 

forward to continuing our celebrations 

the best way we know how with our core 

community and beyond.” 

John Acosta, Costa’s vice-president 

of marketing, added: “Everything we do 

as a brand – past and present – points 

back to the water. It’s where we fulfil 

our higher calling, where we experience 

some of life’s most epic moments, and 

what quenches our thirst for more – so 

what better way to pay homage to the 

common denominator that unites us 

all? That’s what led to the idea behind 

‘Water Is Our Witness,’ and why we’re 

really stoked to share this one.” 

A custom rod workbench essential 

When CRB PRO introduced the RBS Pro G2 Power 

Wrapper in ICAST 2022’s New Product Showcase, they 

knew they had a ground-breaking piece of rod building 

hardware. 

So, it wasn’t a surprise that the G2 took home Best 

of Category in the Custom Tackle and Components 

competition.\With a built-in rod dryer, the G2 Power 

Wrapper allows custom builders to complete a rod build 

without ever having to remove the rod from the unit. 

From turning a custom handle, to wrapping guides 

and decorative threadwork, down to the final coat of rod 

finish, it can all be done on the G2. If you’re turning out 

quantities of custom fishing rods, the G2 Power Wrapper 

is a workbench essential. 

And now, with the RBS Pro G2 Ultimate Power 

Wrapping & Fishing Machine kit, you get the power of 

the award-winning G2 along with the Aluminum Base 

Station Kit, three revolutionary CRB PRO Roller Stand 

Rod Supports and the TC-4 Four-Spool Rolling Thread 

Carriage. 

You can feel the difference in performance and added 

efficiency when you’re working with professional-level 

tools. Whether you’re taking your rod building business 

to the next level or just want to upgrade to a state-ofthe-art 

workshop, the RBS Pro G2 Ultimate Power 

Wrapping & Finishing Machine will get you there! 

www.mudhole.com 

18 www.tackletradeworld.com

DAIWA’S DEDICATION 

TO INDEPENDENTS 

Global tackle giant Daiwa has 

backed independent retailers 

by offering them an exclusive 

series of premium rods and 

reels which are not available 

from online sellers. 

The series is called Kage – 

which means “in the shadows” 

in Japanese or “the shadow 

that is created by the light” 

and is designed to offer some 

relief to smaller tackle shops 

who find it hard to compete 

with the big box stores and 

online retailers. 

Daiwa’ marketing manager 

in the US, Marc Mills, 

explained: “Independent 

dealers are core to Daiwa’s 

business. These shops offer 

that hands-on, local and 

regional service that’s the 

backbone of fishing. 

“So, Daiwa wanted to 

do something special for 

them by developing highquality 

products that are only 

available at these specialty 

stores.” 

And during these 

challenging economic 

times, the smaller guys can 

be the most vulnerable. 

Having Daiwa Kage rods 

and reels in-stock, however, 

gives them that little 

competitive edge. And 

their loyal customers 

benefit from buying 

brilliant products at fair 

prices. 

The Kage line-up 

includes two spinning 

reels, three freshwater 

rod series and even an ice 

fishing rod series. 

Among the reels 

are the feature-rich 

KAGE LT MQ, with its 

one-piece Monocoque 

Zaion body allowing 

more power and torque plus 

Magseal waterproofing and 

360 degrees of stability. 

Meanwhile, the Kage LT 

embraces Daiwa’s Light/ 

Tough concept with a 

Zaion high density carbon 

strain material-made body, 

aluminium DigiGear and 

a powerful yet smooth 

Advanced Tournament Drag. 

It’s offered in sizes from 1000 

to 2500, to cover a range of 

requirements. 

On the rod front, look out 

for 14 technique-specific bass 

models with a high-quality fit 

and finish set off by a matte 

black look and braid-friendly 

Fuji Alconite guides. 

Also exclusive to 

independent dealers are the 

UltraLight rods, perfect for 

many ultra-light techniques 

and built using Daiwa’s X-45 

Bias Carbon Construction 

to keep the blank strong 

while avoiding blank twist. 

Using Megatop Technology, 

the tip features a solid 

blank construction for extra 

strength, durability, and 

sensitivity. 

Ideal for trout or panfish, 

there are 11 unique models. 

Walleye anglers are catered 

for with 10 dedicated rods 

using X-45 Bias Carbon 

Construction and a tough and 

rigid SVF Carbon Technology 

blank for greater strength and 

sensitivity. 

Finally, there is the 

innovative ice fishing 

collection, which uses 

proprietary Daiwa rod 

building technologies, for 

a blank that maintains the 

strength and durability of a 

much larger diameter rod. The 

Super Volume Fiber (SVF) 

blank manufacturing process 

provides more strength, 

allowing for a smaller volume 

of resin, resulting in a lighter, 

slimmer blank that is both 

sensitive and strong. 

Peli on the case for expansion 

High-performance case manufacturer and 

packaging solutions expert Peli Products 

is planning to expand production capacity 

at the German manufacturing facility it 

acquired last summer. 

The company, a subsidiary of Pelican 

Products, is accelerating the localisation 

of protective case production from 

manufacturing facilities in the USA to 

Germany and will add 11 new injectionmoulded 

models to the 15 it already 

makes at its Crottendorf operation, with 

another 15 to be added before the end of 

next year. 

The move will effectively double the 

workforce at the plant in the next two to 

three years while also investing heavily in 

new plant equipment and machinery. 

International president Piero Marigo 

said: “In a context of global challenging 

markets, our determination is to optimise 

our global European investment with 

a continuous improvement of our 

manufacturing processes. 

“The continued investment in 

our German facilities will reinforce 

our leading competitive position in 

Europe. Our highest priority is to 

provide our customers with ‘made in 

Germany’ products and services to offer 

an improved customer experience by 

lowering lead times of supply as well as 

helping to maintain our compromise of 

quality and global sustainability.” 

www.peli.com 


ICAST 

YOUR GUIDE TO 


The world’s largest sportfishing trade show, ICAST 2023, is taking place in Orlando Florida, 

from July 11th to 14th. Being so huge, it’s easy to get lost or miss out on things, so here’s our 

day-by-day guide covering what to look for and where to go. 

Welcome to the grandest 

stage in recreational 

sportfishing – the 

International Convention 

of Sportfishing Trades, better known 

as ICAST. Annually produced by the 

American Sportfishing Association (ASA), 

for 66 years this flagship event has been the 

cornerstone of the sportfishing trade. 

Each year, thousands of representatives 

from the global sportfishing industry 

gather in Orlando, Florida’s Orange 

County Convention Center to see 

everything an angler could want to have 

a great day on the water. Last year, more 

than 12,000 attendees hailing from more 

than 73 nations attended the show. 

From kayaks to crankbaits and board 

shorts to braided line, thousands of new 


products are on display here – each a 

potential money maker for your business. 

But, with an enthralling array of booths, 

products and people to see, how do you 

make the most of ICAST 2023? 

GET CONNECTED BEFORE 

YOU GET STARTED 

Start by downloading the free ICAST 

smartphone app. Available for both Apple 

and Android devices, this indispensable 

tool features a QR reader to scan and 

store name badges alongside a convenient 

scheduling tool that helps keep track of 

meetings and keeps you up to date on daily 

events. 

The ICAST app is an essential tool to 

make the most of the show. While the 

event lasts from July 11th to 14th, it’s also 

packed with activities that ensure those 

four days go by in a flash. 

Downloading the app can not only 

help you navigate the maze of booths and 

special event spaces on the show floor but 

it can also help you stay connected after 

the show. 

SOCIALISE ON SUPER TUESDAY 

Super Tuesday is a can’t-miss event 

that is as essential to a successful show 

week as each of the three days inside the 

convention center. Plan for an early start 

at Lake Toho to maximise a full day with 

industry friends outside. The day starts 

with the annual ICAST Cup Bass Fishing 

Tournament, presented by Major League 

Fishing in support of Keep America 

Fishing. The weigh-in starts at 9:30am.

ICAST 2023 

ICAST 

On The Water Product Demo Day 

is next on the agenda. Set amidst five 

acres of water and open space outside the 

convention center’s North Building, from 

10am to 2pm, this is your chance to have 

fun testing marine electronics, kayaks, 

SUPs on the water and cast rods, reels and 

lures in a natural environment. Misters, 

beverages and food are all available, just 

steps away from the water. 

As the sun sinks lower in the afternoon 

sky, head into the convention center itself 

for the New Product Showcase Preview 

Reception presented by Fishing Tackle 

Retailer from 5pm to 8pm. 

Credentialed buyers and media can take 

advantage of early access into the New 

Product Showcase area of the show the 

evening before doors officially open and 

voting for the “Best of Category” begins. 

The reception is an outstanding place 

to network with industry peers. Browsing 

this gallery of brand-new products – all 

competing for the coveted “Best of Show” 

Award – can not only introduce you to 

innovative new products to sell but also 

earn you a chance to win a cash prize just 

for voting. 

WEDNESDAY IS OPENING DAY 

The doors of ICAST open on Wednesday 

morning at 9am, when attendees gain access 

to the entire show floor. Inside, the aisles are 

filled with fishing tackle, lifestyle products 

and apparel – enough to fill any store many 

times over. 

Billy Parsons has been attending ICAST 

for 15 years as a member of Australian 

tackle business J M Gillies and his strategy 

for breaking down the floor is simple. 

First, Parsons uses the ICAST app to 

create a map of which booths to visit. “I go 

in and map them out to have a pre-show 

plan of where I am going to go,” he said. “If 

you don’t plan it properly and map it out, 

you can run out of time.” 

Parsons schedules no meetings before 

noon on Wednesday. Instead, he directs his 

team to spend the first few hours walking 

the show floor. 

This year, dealers catering for fly anglers 

will want to make note to swing by the allnew 

ICAST Fly Shop booth. 

The ICAST Fly Shop is designed to 

replicate the experience visiting a high-end 

fly-fishing store. New for 2023, this fly 

footprint includes the adjacent FlyCASTing 

Pond – where even the most stalwart 

conventional tackle anglers will enjoy trying 

their hand at casting – as well as additional 

fly fishing categories in the New Product 

Showcase itself. 

Time flies fast at ICAST, though and, by 

midday, events are in full swing. From 11am, 

onwards, attendees are welcome to take 

advantage of the Lunch & Learn business 

seminars. These valuable lectures highlight 

trends that affect businesses throughout the 

world of sportfishing. Wednesday’s slate 

includes a breakdown of the latest industry 

data and trends from Southwick Associates 

and the Recreational Boating & Fishing 


23

ICAST 


Foundation, as well as content creation 

insights from Adobe Digital Thought 

Leader Sid Dobrin. 

There is also a full seminar schedule on 

Thursday. 

Wrap up Wednesday with social hour in 

exhibitors’ booths from 4pm to 6pm and the 

New Product Showcase Industry Awards 

Reception immediately afterwards. 


THURSDAY IS ANOTHER FULL DAY 

On Thursday, while media members scurry 

to document the winners of the previous 

night’s awards, pointing cameras and 

positioning tripods around the trophies 

scattered around the convention hall, 

dealers get down to business of their own. 

ICAST encourages attendees to place 

orders by teaming up with manufacturers 

to offer special incentives only available at 

the show. 

This year, more than 100 exhibitors have 

signed on to offer promotions or exclusive 

pricing to attendees at ICAST. 

Show organisers have sweetened the deal 

with $500 daily cash drawings for people 

placing orders, as well as a prize fishing trip 

for two to Crocodile Bay, Costa Rica.

ICAST 2023 

ICAST 

Kyle Hall is a professional angler and 

tackle store owner who attends ICAST 

regularly to find products for his North 

Texas tackle store, Tri-Lakes Tackle Town. 

“The number one thing I am really there 

for is to buy products,” Hall says. 

“I like to go and personally see the 

new products that are coming down the 

pipeline.” 

By Thursday, Hall and his team are in 

buying mode. 

“A day and a half into the show, you 

should have an idea of how many orders 

they are about to put in. I suggest you make 

a list of companies you want to put orders 

in with.” 

Th e New Product Showcase again takes 

centre stage at 2pm, when the overall 

“Best of Show” winner is announced in the 

showcase. 

Last year, the stunning results catapulted 

start-up company Pacbak to stardom by 

taking home the top honours. 

This year, ICAST features more Best of 

Category winners than ever – 37 in total – 

promising another wide open competition. 

FORGE FINAL CONNECTIONS ON 

FRIDAY 

Unril 3pm, it’s business as usual on the show 

floor, as attendees finalise a week’s worth of 

research. 

Crucially, dealers still have time to try 

their hand at casting the latest rods, reels 

and combos in both conventional and 

fly tackle at the FlyCASTing Pond and 

ICASTing Pond. 

For veteran buyers like Parsons and Hall, 

Friday means following up with purchase 

orders and closing deals. 

“If we have a new business opportunity, 

we go back in and make sure that we are 100 

per cent locked down,” adds Parsons. 

“Generally, that’s a second meeting where 

we might be going in and making an order. 

We sometimes literally go line-by-line and 

order a new range of products.” 

Dealer Corey Pugh was one of the 

12,000-plus attendees at last year’s ICAST. 

And the newly minted owner of Neptune’s 

Fishing Supplies in the US Virgin Islands 

knows better than most just how powerful 

the connections made in Orlando can be. 

Last year, Pugh purchased the 44-year-old 

tackle business immediately after attending 

the show. 

“We met the previous owner there,” says 

Pugh. “He actually introduced us to the 

vendors and key people we needed to know.” 

Year after year, ICAST continues to 

generate more interest in new fishing tackle. 

In the age of social media, the show has also 

created a cult following of consumers who 

keep a constant eye on the stream of articles, 

photos and videos emanating from this 

annual epicentre of fishing tackle. 

Each attendee we spoke with 

acknowledged that seeing it all at ICAST – 

a show with tens of thousands of products – 

is likely an impossible task over four days. 

But by leveraging shortcuts like spotting 

the most heralded new gear in the New 

Product Showcase and building a digital 

contact list via the smartphone app, dealers 

can leave Orlando with an unparalleled 

amount of industry knowledge. 

ICAST 

www.icastfishing.org 


25

ICAST 


ICAST 2023 SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE 

MONDAY, JULY 10TH 

12pm - 5pm 

Registration open 

South Hall Lobby 

Rooms S220 B-E 

TUESDAY, JULY 11TH 

6.30am - 10.30am 

ICAST Bass Fishing Cup 

Big Toho Marina 

12pm - 5pm 




10am - 2pm 

On The Water Product 

Demo Day 

OCCC North Building Ponds 

5pm - 8pm 

New Product Showcase 

Preview Reception 

Booth 100 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12TH 

7am - 5pm 




7am - 8.45am 

State Of the Industry Breakfast 

Room S320 

9am - 6pm 

Show Open 

Lure Tank Open 

Booth 3430 

ICASTing Pond Open 

Booth 115 

Flycasting Pond Open 

Booth 119 

9am - 12pm 


‘Best Of Category’ Voting 

Booth 100 

2pm - 6pm 

New Product Showcase Open 

Booth 100 

4pm - 6pm 

Social Hour 

In Exhibitor Booths 

6pm - 7.30pm 

New Product Showcase ‘Best 

of Category’ Awards 

Room S320 

THURSDAY, JULY 13TH 

7am - 5pm 




9am - 6pm 

Show Open 


Booth 3430 


Booth 115 


Booth 119 

2pm - 2.30pm 


‘Best of Show’ Award 

Booth 100 

4pm - 6pm 

Social Hour 


FRIDAY, JULY 14TH 

8am - 1pm 




9am - 3pm 

Show Open 


Booth 3430 


Booth 115 


Booth 119 

9am - 12pm 


Booth 100 

9am - 12pm 


‘Best Of Show’ Voting 

Booth 100 

12pm – 2pm Social Hour 


3pm Show Closes 

9am - 6pm 


Booth 100 

*Show schedule subject to 

change 


SPOTLIGHT ON... 

TACKLE STORAGE 

SPOTLIGHT ON 

TACKLE 

STORAGE 

Anglers always take more gear to the bank or boat than they should, as it ensures they are 

ready for every eventuality. That’s great news for the tackle trade. Even better, they also 

need to keep it all organised. Thankfully, storage options are many and varied. 

Organised anglers often make 

better anglers as they have all 

they need to hand to cope with 

any situation or conditions. 

Many, of course, will have the luxury 

of their own tackle store, shed or room at 

home where their main kit will reside but 

whether you have everything ship-shape at 

home or not, you’ll want it all neatly packed 

when you head to your favourite fishing 

spot. 

After all, knowing where all your kit is 

and being able to access it quickly means 

you are more efficient on the bank or in the 

boat, resulting in more time with your bait 

actually in the water, giving you a greater 

chance of catching more fish. 

Years ago, that meant stashing everything 

in a generic pack where it would often roll 

around at the bottom or finding all manner 

of biscuit tins or cigar boxes to house 

terminal tackle. 

While this served a purpose, it was far 

from ideal and sometimes meant your 

favourite item would be damaged in transit. 

So smart brands began designing a wide 

selection of dedicated boxes, bags, cases and 

more to keep everything stored safe and 

sound, both at home and out on the water. 

A SMART SOLUTION 

As a successful tackle seller or brand, you 

will have already managed to kit your 

customer out with all the essentials, from 

rods and reels to lines, hooks, weights, lures, 

floats, flies or bait. 

So the logical extension to this is to 

supply purpose-built items to store all this 

in and transport it safely, while keeping 

everything neat and tidy. 

As a retailer you have a couple of options 

in terms of how you find the right gear to 

stock. 

Many anglers are brand loyal so sourcing 

suitable storage boxes from the key brands 

you already successfully sell makes a lot of 

sense as you know you already have a willing 

market. 

Alternatively, there is something to be 

said to plumping for some of the products 

and brands which have made their names 

as specialist storage solution suppliers. Their 

kit will be the best and you can sell it with 

confidence. 

HORSES FOR COURSES 

Of course, requirements will differ depending 

on the type of fishing your customer enjoys. 

Fly fishers will not only need boxes to store 

their flies in, but also boxes or bags to keep 

those fly boxes in. 

Just as importantly, since this is invariably 

a mobile discipline, these tackle boxes need 

to move with them as they progress down a 

winding river or along the bank of the lake or 

creek. 

Many brands in this sector, recognising this, 

have begun offering wearable storage solutions. 

Competition fly anglers may also need 

mutliple rods and reels to swap and change 

throughout the day and dedicated cases for 

both are manufactured by many well-known 

brands. 

Match or European competition anglers, 

on the other hand, spend several hours in one 

place, without getting up to stop fishing for 

a second, so will want all their gear to hand 

– high-tech seatboxes and dedicated luggage 

with special compartments are the order of the 

day here. 

Indeed, the storage options on these 

seatboxes have to be seen to be believed 

and many have been cleverly designed with 

individual parts to slot in or out as required. 

Carp anglers – whether on a day session 

or bivvied up for a week – rely on stealthy 

camo bags to store their leads, rigs, hooks and 

components within their bivvies. Modular 

is the current buzzword as these are often 

stackable or are part of a larger unit, which 

can be custom-designed according to the 

individual’s needs. 

Lure anglers just love tackle boxes – 

especially with clever labelling systems or 

clear lid, letting them grab what they need 

a moment’s notice. Chopping and changing 

lures is often the key to success so an orderly 

lure box makes perfect sense. 

For bass anglers, kayakers or those heading 

out on any form of watercraft, space is at a 

premium and you don’t want your lures, hooks 

or weights rolling round on deck so look to 

compact boxes with quick access. 

Specialty storage solutions keep everything 

in its place – maximising stime spent fishing 

rather than hunting for that ‘killer‘ lure in the 

depths of a cubby hole. 

One other thing to look out for is that 

a number of companies now include rust 

inhibitors or moisture removers in their 

storage boxes but, where they don’t, a supply 

of vapour corrosion inhibiting (VCI) pads 

or products, might be a cool little add-on for 

your customers to buy and they are extremely 

cost-effective, especially when weighed up 

against the damage that moisture or rust can 

do to fishing tackle. 

Check out the next pages for a few ideas of 

products worth looking at to solve that storage 

stumbling block. 


Save a lot of time 

with ready-made fishing rigs! 

Benzar 

Rapid Method Set 

Benzar 

Rapid Method 

Longcast Set 

Benzar 

Rapid Method 

Longcast Rig 

Carp Expert 

Helicopter D-Rig 

Benzar 

Rapid Method Rig 

Benzar 

Rapid XL 

Longcast Rig 

Carp Expert 

Inline Blow-back Rig 

Partners Wanted! 

Energofish Ltd. is looking for new Partners all over the World. 

Free delivery on orders over €300. Click here to start your 

registration and other details. 

NETHERLANDS GERMANY SWEDEN POLAND FRANCE ITALY 

INFO@ENERGOFISH.COM 

WWW.ENERGOFISH.COM



FLAMBEAU OUTDOORS 

TERMINAL SLIM WATERPROOF ULTIMATE TUFF TAINER 

This packs a boatload of terminal tackle into a “slim” profile (1.7in depth) in comparison to the 

standard 5000/3700 series bandwidth (2.125in depth) while maintaining the same footprint. 

This terminal tackle storage solution is built to burden the heavy load of weights and neatly 

organize all terminal necessities by type, size, weight, or class. Individual, removable storage cups 

offer a “fish of the same fin school together” system that allows anglers to conveniently “pluck 

and pick” desired tackle components. 

An isolated tackle storage locker with a lid keeps micro terminal tackle like split rings, swivels, 

O-rings, beads and more individually contained. This user-friendly design paired with a heavyduty 

ribbed construction, three Drawtite cam-over latches and Zerust-infused dividers makes 

the Terminal Slim Waterproof Ultimate Tuff Tainer the ideal storage solution for protecting 

terminal tackle on and off the water. 

www.flambeauoutdoors.com 

PLANO 

PRO-SERIES TACKLE BAG 

Plano, already a leader in tackle storage solutions, 

is again breaking the rules with its Pro Series bags 

that deliver pro-level features and a fresh new look 

that even the most hardcore angler will appreciate. 

Available in two sizes – 3600 and 3700 – these 

feature fast access top openings with highstrength 

magnets and a moulded pull tab for quick 

access. They are outfitted with an impact-resistant, 

waterproof base to keep tackle moisture-free 

and a durable UV-resistant hex weave outer shell 

fabric that can keep up with any 

angler. The oversized T-handles 

make for easy access to three 

external pockets and are fitted 

with water-resistant zippers 

that keep everything clean 

and dry. The Pro Series bag is 

an essential storage solution for 

your gear in any scenario. 

www.purefishing.com/plano 




FISHPOND 

TACKY PESCADOR FLY BOX 

Most days, you’ll be reaching for the Pescador; a waterproof, 

grab-and-go system for technical tailwater bugs and bushy high 

mountain hoppers, to smaller saltwater crabs and shrimp. 

These ultra-durable boxes will keep a full complement of flies 

secure and bone dry. 

With room for up to 210 flies, the signature waterproof gasket 

and a 100 per cent recycled plastic outer shell, this highly 

versatile box will make its way into the bag every time you 

hit the water. 

It also boasts original patented silicone anchoring 

technology, can withstand extreme temperature ranges and 

incorporates a latchless waterproof closure. 

Durable and tested for long-lasting strength, the Tacky 

Pescador is also a patented design. 

fishpondusa.com 

GAMAKATSU 

G-BAG EWM 5000 

This bag features an Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) opening for 

easy access, while an internal wire frame keeps the main 

compartment in the open position, allowing anglers to sort 

through their tackle and find that perfect bait with ease. 

Anglers can fit up to five Gamakatsu G-Box 3700 or eight 3600 

utility cases inside. A quick-access magnetic front pocket flap 

also stays in an open position, letting anglers effortlessly grab 

often needed items from the handy pocket. 

The durable, 1680 denier polyester construction stands up to 

a rough life on the water, with a water- and slip-resistant EVA 

moulded base that protects the contents against moisture. 

www.gamakatsu.com 

SIMMS 

TRIBUTARY HYBRID CHEST PACK 

When day trips go into extra-innings, the easy-access, 5l 

Tributary Hybrid Chest Pack ups the storage capacity so you 

can extend your range with everything you need to succeed. 

Built with recycled 600D polyester fabric with a 

polyurethane coating, the Tributary Hybrid Chest pack 

features a padded and adjustable yolk-style shoulder 

harness with a zippered pocket. 

The main compartment includes a stretch mesh internal 

pocket and an additional accessory pocket on the face of the 

pack. In addition, the pack is equipped with a net sleeve on 

the back, which has a D-ring for extra secure attachment. 

www.simmsfishing.com 


31

FEATURE 

Mustad 

MUSTAD DROPS LATEST 

HOOK TECHNOLOGIES 

ONTO MARKET 

Debuting pioneering technologies and trends, Mustad is attacking multiple 

sport fishing segments with an extensive series of salt- and freshwater hooks 

featuring advanced technologies. 

The range, centred on new 

complementary hook points 

to the proven UltraPoint4.3, 

includes a complete facelift of 

the Mustad bass hook line-up featuring 

modern shapes and weighted hook 

configurations, plus the latest trends in 

both salt- and freshwater bait fishing. 

Sharpness, durability and strength are 

paramount to an effective fish hook and 

core standards when Mustad innovates 

hooks. 

AlphaPoint 4.8 Technology takes 

centre stage this year with Mustad’s 

slimmest point yet, making them 

“sticky-sharp” while still featuring the 

same durable sharpening technique that 

makes UltraPoint 4.3 a world-renowned 

needlepoint. 

ALL ANGLES COVERED 

Whether you’re dropping into deep 

waters or navigating through cover, 

the Opti-Angle family reigns supreme 

in terms of resilience, surpassing the 

competition, thanks to their unique set of 


advantages and applications. 

The state-of-the-art, three-stage Opti- 

Angle sharpening technology sets the 

foundation for two distinctly different 

hook point classes – UltraPoint and 

AlphaPoint, each made for their own 

applications. 

Opti-Angle uses a chemical sharpening 

process to achieve incredible sharpness 

without sacrificing strength. This process 

removes less metal from the point, so 

the hook’s durability is maximised and 

penetration preserved. 

Mustad’s existing premium 

needlepoint, UltraPoint 4.3 technology, 

was created to keep hooks sharper longer. 

This is particularly critical when fishing 

around heavy cover, such as wood, docks 

or rocks where inferior hook points can 

roll or break. 

UltraPoint is said to be an unmatched 

20 times more durable than the market’s 

leading needlepoint hooks, solidifying it 

as the top choice for power fishing. 

Complementing the UltraPoint 

strengths, AlphaPoint technology creates 

an even sharper, slimmer hook point that 

excels for more technical applications that 

rely more on finesse than force. 

AlphaPoint hooks boast a point that is 

4.8 times the wire diameter (compared to 

the 4.3 measurement of UltraPoint.). 

A super sharp hook with a longer point 

achieves greater penetration with less 

hook set pressure. 

Even with the increased sharpness, 

AlphaPoint is characterised by the 

extreme durability that Opti-Angle 

offers, making these hooks 10 times more 

durable than the competition. 

This is then paired with Mustad’s 

ultra-slick TitanX matte coating, boasting 

48 hours of salt resistance and a nanothin 

finish that allows for smoother 

penetration. 

For saltwater applications, coating 

hooks with chrome-shiny Titan Steel 

offer up to 500+ hours of saltwater 

corrosion resistance. 

MUSTAD 

www.mustad-fishing.com

HUNT FISH 

Add performance to your assortment. 

Stubby 

Guide Glove 

in 10 colors 

Fishing Socks 

• 3 Weights 

• 6 Styles 

Over 50 different Styles! 

Mossy Oak Gloves 

• Bottomland 

• Shadow Grass 

• 9 Styles 

www.dealers.fishmonkeygloves.com

DBW... 

FlORIdA 

d O I n G B u S I n E S S W I T H . . . 

FLORIDA 

The Sunshine State, as it is affectionately known, Florida boasts 

a fabulous climate, over 1,000 miles of coastline, some amazing 

freshwater fishing too and, crucially, this month (July) it is also 

home to the world’s largest sportfishing trade show, ICAST. 

F 

lorida has the longest coastline – 

1,197 miles – in the contiguous 

USA, offering up 825 miles 

of accessible beaches, 11,000 

miles of rivers, streams and 

waterways and is the only state 

that borders both the Atlantic 

Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. 

In fact, wherever you are in 

Florida, you’re never more than 

60 miles from the nearest body 

of saltwater. 

With warm weather all-year 

round with a climate ranging 

from subtropical in the north to 

tropical in the south, it’s a haven 

for visitors for holidays. 

Indeed, thanks to its climate 

and its size – it’s the third 

largest US state by population 

– its tourism and agriculture 

alone contribute a whopping $1 

trillion to the country’s GDP. 

Naturally, its biggest tourism 

draw is its huge range of theme 

parks and resorts, including 

Disney, Universal, SeaWorld 

and LEGOLAND – Orlando 

attracts more visitors than 

any other amusement park 

destination in the USA. 

Seven of the 10 most visited 

theme parks are in Florida while 

Walt Disney World Resort is 

the planet’s most visited and 

biggest recreational resort. 

The state also produces 

more than 70 per cent of the 

nation’s oranges and ranks 

number one for tomatoes, 

grapefruit, sugarcane, snap 

beans, cucumbers, and oranges. 

Intriguingly, it is also home 

to nine out of the top 25 beef 

producers in the USA. While 

the orange crop is the state’s 

biggest agricultural output, 

its number one international 

agricultural export is actually 

meat. 

The space industry is another 

big hitter, representing $4.1 

billion of the state’s economy, 

with 13,000 people employed at 

Kennedy Space Center (KSC) 

alone. Other key contributors 

to the state’s economy include 

construction, services in high 

tech, financial and back office 

operations, software, health 

technology and university 

research. 

The Sunshine State has 


DBW... 

FlORIdA 

ECOnOMY FOCuS 

$1 trillion GDP (USD) 

$50,424 GDP per capita (USD) 

3.98% GDP growth rate 

6.4% Unemployment rate (2019) 

Top export partners: 

– Brazil 

– Canada 

– Mexico 

– Colombia 

– Germany 

FACT FIlE 

State capital: Tallahassee dialling code: +1 

population: 21.6 million governor: Ron DeSantis 

official language: English Time zones: EDT (GMT-4) 

currency: US $ internet domain: .us 

Top import partners: 

– China 

– Mexico 

– Canada 

– Ireland 

– Germany 

long been a magnet for those 

wishing to retire and enjoy 

their leisure time – indeed, 

some 19 per cent of Florida’s 

population is over 65. Sumter 

County, outside Orlando, is the 

only county in the US where 

the majority of its residents are 

over 65 – around 53 per cent. 

It is also home to more golf 

courses – 1,250 – than any 

other US state – and, crucially 

for us, is arguably the boating 

and fishing capital of the world. 

Here you’ll find more than 

7,700 lakes, 11,000 miles 

of rivers, 2,276 miles of 

tidal shoreline. It’s perhaps 

no wonder, then, that it has 

produced more than 900 world 

fishing records. 

It’s also understandable, then, 

that Florida (and Orlando in 

particular) has been chosen 

as the perfect place to host 

ICAST, the world’s largest 

sportfishing trade show, 

representing the interests of 

the sportfishing and boating 

industries as well as the entire 

sportfishing community. This 

year visitors from around the 

world will descend on the 

Orange County Convention 

Center in Orlando from July 

11th to 14th. 


35

DBW... 

Florida 

SAILFISH 

TARGET SPECIES & HOW THEY FISH 

It could be argued that Florida is one of the 

fishing capitals of the world. 

From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic 

Coast and all the way down to the Keys, 

it has some of the finest and most diverse 

fisheries, including flats, mangroves, 

reefs, wrecks, deep water trenches and 3 

million acres of freshwater lakes, ponds 

and reservoirs along with 12,000 miles of 

fishable rivers, streams and canals. 

The good news is that many of the fish in 

Florida need a specialist approach, allowing 

retailers and brands to enjoy a lucrative 

business opportunity or two, not to 

mention the many guides and boat skippers 

who ply their trade across the state. 

So which species are the most popular? 

Tarpon 

Highly prized for its fighting ability rather 

than for food, the silver king of sportfish is 

an ever-present in the coastal waters and 

is targeted by those using both live and 

artificial baits as well as fly fishermen. 

Many consider tarpon fishing the 

ultimate challenge as the percentage landed 

versus those actually hooked is pretty low, 

in part down to their bony mouths and 

their habit of throwing hooks by leaping 

and shaking their heads. 

Sailfish 

Florida’s official state saltwater fish will put 

any tackle through its paces and if you hook 

one in the deep blue water off the coast you 

can be sure of a good fight and, most likely, 

an acrobatic leap or two. 

Most are caught by either trolling or live 

baiting with fish. 

South Florida anglers have even 

developed a special technique using kites to 

target them. 

Snook 

Highly sensitive to changes in water 

temperature, you’ll find snook in the 

warmer inshore waters, where they can be 

caught using a variety of artificial lures and 

live baits. 

Many anglers like to target snook on 

light tackle, making for fun sport, but they 

can be cagey and, once hooked, have an 

annoying habit of shredding fishing lines if 

they aren’t up to the task. 

Spotted Sea Trout 

Also known as speckled trout, this is 

a schooling species often found in the 

shallow waters of bays and estuaries, 

feeding on shrimp and small baitfish in 

grassy areas. 

Their popularity comes from the fact they 

will hit pretty much everything, from top 

water plugs to saltwater flies. 

jack crevalle 

Tarpon 


Red Drum 

Also known as redfish, this is another 

shallow water schooling fish that inhabits 

both salt and brackish water. 

A conservation success story after years 

of overfishing, they can be taken on both 

live bait and artificial lures. The top live bait 

is a big shrimp and the top artificial lures 

are weedless spoons and soft plastic baits. 

Jack Crevalle 

Another aggressive, schooling fish, Jacks 

will hit artificial lures and flies with reckless 

abandon in the inshore waters and from the 

beaches. They will take lures or flies when 

feeding aggressively, allowing anglers to 

cover more water than they can with bait. 

Many jacks are hooked by anglers working 

shorelines for snook and redfish. 

Largemouth bass 

Florida’s official freshwater fish, it’s big 

on size and numbers of them. Most of 

the larger bass stocked in other states are 

Florida strain, which grow larger than any 

others. 

Being mainly flat, Florida has countless 

shallow lakes, ponds, and slow-moving 

streams, which are the perfect habitat 

for largemouth bass, attracting legions 

of anglers for great sport or that elusive 

10-pounder. 

Panfish 

A generic term that covers a range of 

species such as sunfish, bluegill, warmouth 

and more, these are often the first fish 

many youngsters catch, typically on worms, 

popping bugs or spinner baits. 

King Mackerel 

One of the fastest fish anywhere, you’ll be 

targeting these in the inshore waters of the 

Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico off 

both Florida coasts. They come in close to 

shore at times, which is ideal for anglers 

in smaller boats. Growing to over 50lb, 

they are very aggressive and are caught on 

trolled live and artificial baits, although 

anglers wanting quantity not quality will do 

well using spoons and plugs. They are also 

a very popular tournament fish. 

DBW... 

Florida 

Snapper 

Popular as a great eating fish, this 

is an offshore species that is another 

conservation success following the loss of 

millions of juveniles in trawler nets over the 

years. New regulations enforce size limits 

today. 

You’ll need to head offshore as they are 

found in water from 60ft to 440ft deep 

and you’ll want either some shrimp, crab 

or squid as bait or soft jigs and spoons, if 

presented correctly on the bottom. 

Good charter skippers can tick the boxes 

here. 

Sharks 

Good fun in the shallow inshore waters of 

the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean, 

there are a few species worth targeting. 

They are generally fairly easy to catch, 

anchoring uptide of a likely area and 

putting some chum in the water will soon 

draw them to the boat. 

Given their nature, though, its important 

to match the size of the tackle to the size of 

the shark being targeted. 

i n d u s t r y V I E W 

Many anglers, both novice 

and expert, would agree that 

Florida is the fishing capital of 

the world. 

With an abundance of species 

and seemingly endless waters 

to fish, it boasts one of the 

largest fishing populations that 

are eager to buy the latest and 

greatest tackle and gear in hopes 

of catching more fish or reeling 

in the big one. 

With so much to go at, you 

would think that the fishing 

tackle industry is booming 

in Florida. Well, that’s 

complicated. While many 

companies are seeing an uptick 

in sales for 2023, there are still 

supply chain issues due to the 

aftereffects of the pandemic and 

the war in Ukraine. 

With so many manufacturers 

and tackle companies relying on 

overseas labour and parts, the 

lag in receiving some of these 

goods has created what seems to 

be a surplus of some items. 

This “overstock” situation has 

many consumers underwhelmed 

by the selection at some stores 

and retailers either turning 

away products or drastically 

discounting items to move stock. 

For those companies who 

manufacture everything in 

the USA, there are still labour 

shortages but that’s really the 

only hurdle. 

Terry Dillinger, CEO of 

Carr Specialty Baits, Inc. 

(Fishbites), explained: “For 

our business, the demand is 

there. We are up significantly 

compared to last year and, as 

we continue to expand in new 

markets, I expect to see those 

numbers continue to rise.” 

For Carr Speciality Baits, 

Inc., making all of its products 

at the Fishbites headquarters 

in St Augustine, Florida has 

allowed it to see exponential 

growth over the past few years. 

In addition to the 

manufacturing and distribution 

side of the business, a tackle shop 

called the Fishbites Trading 

Post opened during the height 

of the pandemic and not only 

survived but thrived. 

Sales at the Fishbites Trading 

Post have been steady compared 

to last year but online sales are 

booming, with some channels 

seeing a 64 per cent increase or 

more year over year. 

What’s the outlook? 

Although some of this may 

seem a little discouraging for 

some in the business, the fishing 

tackle industry in Florida is 

THRIVING, with the number 

of anglers on the water steadily 

increasing year over year. 

The state of Florida sold a 

record number of in- and outof-state 

fishing licences and it is 

seeing an influx of female and 

juniors combined with many 

seasoned anglers discovering 

other kinds of fishing i.e. slow 

pitch jigging is becoming hugely 

popular, boat anglers are trying 

out surf fishing and vice versa. 

Dedicated saltwater anglers 

are realising how accessible 

freshwater fishing has become. 

What does that all mean? 

Anglers are expanding 

their tackle and gear selections 

to accommodate these new 

adventures. 

With the growing popularity 

of the sport, Terry doesn’t see the 

Florida tackle industry slowing 

down any time soon and, while 

some anglers are going “back 

to basics”, there will always 

be demand for the latest and 

greatest, bright and shiny, next 

big thing in fishing tackle. 


37

MAKING 

CONTACT 

Making Contact 

1 

2 

Want your products to 

be seen by thousands of 

potential buyers… FREE 

of charge? Then get in 

touch, we’d love to hear 

from you. 

JOHN HUNTER 

+44 7990 542958 

john.hunter@dhpub.co.uk 

DAVID HAYNES 

david.haynes@dhpub.co.uk 

Contact John or David directly 

for details of how to send your 

product and a short description to 

Tackle Trade World’s office. 

1 SIMMS 

CONFLUENCE STOCKINGFOOT 

WADER 

Designed for anglers who work 

all the angles, this wader offers 

durability, freedom of movement 

and intuitive on-water storage. 

Built with Simms’ proprietary 

four-layer Toray fabric in the lower 

and a four-layer Toray stretch 

fabric in the upper, the Confluence 

Stockingfoot comes equipped 

with adjustable spacer air-mesh 

suspenders, a vast pocket array 

and a compression-moulded 

neoprene knee construction for 

additional protection and comfort 

while kneeling and brush-busting. 


2 ZMAN FISHING 

SMH WORMZ 

Sculpted for subtle yet 

unstoppable underwater 

movement, the SMH WormZ starts 

with a substantial but slender 

head and torso, ideally shaped 

for easy hook penetration, before 

slimming down to a wispy-thin 

midsection that helps activate the 

worm’s bulbous, football shaped 

tail-kicking and undulating 

continuously as the angler shakes 

the line. And when you stop 

shaking, the tail levitates, hovers 

and exposes itself to the slightest 

underwater currents thanks to 

its buoyant and soft ElaZtech 

construction. 

Impregnated with 15 per cent 

salt for added taste, texture and 

casting weight, they’re available in 

10 colours. 

www.zmanfishing.com 

3 POWER-POLE 

MOVE BRUSHLESS TROLLING 

MOTOR 

Nearly a decade in the making, 

this motor was concepted and 

constructed from the ground up 

with a focus on not just improving 

upon existing offerings but 

exceeding them in every way. 

The result is not only the most 

powerful electric motor available 

but also the quietest and most 

durable trolling motor sportfishing 

has seen. The motor and steering 

systems are engineered to 

produce ultimate power while 

remaining near silent in their 

operation. The Power Unity 

System and reinforced TechflowT 

Propeller create 30 per cent more 

power than industry leading 

trolling motors, all while being 

whisper quiet in the propulsion 

and the steering systems. 

power-pole.com 

3 


FINESSE FOCUSED. EVERYTHING PREMIUM. NO COMPROMISES 

GreatLakesFinesse.com

FEATURE 

Fishbites 

A GAME CHANGING 

BRAND TO GET 

YOUR TEETH INTO 

Anglers around the world agree: Fishbites catch more fish! Since 1999, Carr Specialty Baits, 

Inc. has been busy revolutionising the fishing industry with its game-changing brand of 

baits called Fishbites. 

Using a concentrated formula 

replicating the natural chemicals 

that fish use to detect and track 

their prey, Fishbites have become 

the go-to synthetic alternative to natural bait. 

Each bait is heavily infused with a mixture 

it calls Flavor/Scent. The scent replicates 

feeding stimulants found in prey animals that 

trigger feeding behaviours in fish. The flavour 

replicates the taste fish are expecting when 

they strike. The result is a very aggressive 

bite, giving anglers a better chance to ’set the 

hook!’ 

Anglers around the world are using 

Fishbites as their confidence baits, knowing 

that by using these baits the chances of 

catching more fish dramatically increase. 

It’s said to be the bait that stays on the 

hook longer, lasts longer and has the scent 

that melts in the water not in your hand. As 

the bait gradually dissolves, Fishbites baits 

release a trail of powerful feeding stimulants 

that fish simply cannot resist. 

TAKE YOUR PICK 

Most Fishbites baits come in both ‘Fast 

Acting’ and ‘Longer Lasting’ formulas. 

Maximum scent for minimum bucks is the 

motto for the Fast Acting baits. The rate 

of release and the percentage of stimulants 

have both been kicked up a notch in order 

to make the Fast Acting baits live up to their 

name. 

The gel used in these baits also makes 

them ideal for late fall, winter, or early spring 

fishing or where water temperatures stay 

below 65 degrees. 

Meanwhile, its Longer Lasting formula 

provides extra durability for extended 

periods of time and makes a good choice for 

offshore bottom fishing, surf fishing, or when 

you’re in the presence of numerous pesky 

bait stealers. 

WHAT’S NEW? 

Fishbites has also created new baits that are 

already proving to be a hit amongst anglers 

and are catching a wide variety of species 

around the globe. 

The E-Z Longer Lasting Blue Crab 

Fishbites mimics the blue and white colours 

of a fresh blue crab. In just a few months, 

the Blue Crab Fishbites have caught bull 

whiting, pompano, red drum, sheepshead, 

black drum, cobia, snapper and more. 

Also coming in hot is the Periwinkle 

Clam E-Z Longer Lasting Fishbites, meant 

to imitate the purple hues of the coquina 

(donax) clams commonly found in the surf. 

From pompano to red drum, this colour 

combo seems to be the ticket when you are 

matching the hatch, and the success these 

baits are having is said to be remarkable. 

No matter where you are in the world or 

what species you are targeting, Fishbites has 

a bait for that! 

If you are interested in becoming a 

distributor or carrying Fishbites in your store, 

email info@fishbites.com. 

FISHBITES 

www.fishbites.com 

info@fishbites.com 


Panther Martin ® 

Teaser Alert! 

NEW 

for 2024 

NEW Hybrid Holographic 

This year we are introducing 

3 NEW Panther Martin® Hybrid Holographic 

lures in 3 of our most popular sizes. 

What makes these NEW Panther Martin® lures 

so different and unique is that we are combining 

the flash of our genuine gold and silver plated 

blades with proven holographic bodies and 

super bright ultraviolet dressings. Fish can’t 

resist that combo! The silky smooth synthetic 

fibers have 0% water absorption so they stay 

fluffy even under water. Easy to cast and 

irresistible! 

But That’s Not All! - These 3 new lures are just 

the beginning of over 50 new lures that we will 

be introducing at Icast this year. 

Come and see all our great new lures and our 

full selection of Panther Martins at booth 2802. 

See Them At 

Silky and smooth tails 

stay fluffy when wet. 

Available in sizes 

2 - 1/16 oz., 4 - 1/8 oz., 6 - 1/4 oz. 

3 of over 50 Great 

NEW Panther Martin® 

Coming in 2024! 

Booth 2802 

PantherMartin.com, Dept TT073L 

19 N. Columbia Street, Port Jefferson, NY 11777 

ph (631) 473-7308 • fax (631) 473-7398 

/PantherMartin • /PantherMartinFishing

FEATURE 

NRS 

NRS HAS THE RIGHT 

APPROACH TO 

ANGLING RAFTS 

“ 

In 2022, NRS released the Slipstream Raft Series, its first raft purpose-built for adventure 

anglers. Two years and many river miles later, it is expanding its adventure-angling 

watercraft with the Approach Series, an easy transport package focused on stealth and 

access that redefines where a boat can take you. 

As anglers go to ever greater 

lengths to escape the 

crowds and enjoy a quality 

fishing experience, we need 

boats that can live up to the challenge,” 

says NRS fishing category product 

manager Mike Dolmage. 

“With the Slipstream and new 

Approach series, we have complete 

packages for every fishing adventure, 

whether you’re embarking on a multiday 

wilderness journey or hopping over the 

guardrail to float your local stream.” 

Constructed with the same durable 

welded PVC as the Slipstream, the 

Approach can handle the abrasion of 

shallow streams and overgrown banks. 

A combination of 16in tubes and a 

thick drop stitch insert floor enhances 

buoyancy, letting the Approach draft 

in really skinny water, opening access 

to headwaters and tighter, more remote 

waters other boats can’t reach. 

These easy-transport, lightweight fishing 

craft are designed to fit between the wheel 

wells of a full-size truck or ride on the roof 

of a Jeep or SUV—no trailer or boat launch 

required. 

The innovative slot-rail frame system lets 

anglers make on-the-fly adjustments to seat, 


oar and accessory placement and enhances 

versatility for features like rod holder tubes 

and motor mounts. 

A BETTER EXPERIENCE 

NRS’ vision has always been to enhance an 

angler’s on-water experience, which is evident 

in the attention to detail NRS designers and 

engineers put into the Approach features. 

An internal anchor system with quickrelease 

rope clamp features a 2:1 assist 

making it easily controlled from the rower’s 

seat while eliminating tripping hazards and 

entrapment risks. 

The dry box seat platform(s) provide 

convenient external trays and internal 

waterproof storage compartments keeping 

gear dry, organised and off the raft floor. 

It’s available in two sizes. 

The Approach 100 is perfect for the solo 

adventure angler. With room for overnight 

gear, anglers can catch the Golden Hour 

on both sides of the day, or tagalong on a 

multiday and stalk all the tribs along the way. 

Anglers looking for a little more room 

or who enjoy the company of others, the 

Approach 120 comfortably fits a rower and 

an angler in the bow with additional gear 

capacity. 

In an effort to welcome more anglers into 

the community, the Approach series is a great 

option for anglers looking to buy their first 

raft. 

Add on the Rower’s Package to include all 

the accessories needed to get on the water. 

NRS 

www.nrs.com

UNI PRODUCTS J.G. Cote Inc. 

1004 Principale 

Ste-Melanie, QC. Canada JOK 3AO 

Tel: 450-889-8054 

Toll-Free: 1-877-889-8054 

Fax: 450-889-5887 

Email: info@uniproducts.com 

NEW FROM UNI 

TAKE CONTROL OF SPOOLED WIRE 

WITH THE NEW UNI-STRAP 

Look to UNI for the best in spooled fly-tying materials! 

www.uniproducts.com

FEATURE 

Emerger Strategies 

The emergence of 

sustainable business 

Having a sustainable business is more important than ever today but where do you start 

and how do you get it right? Fortunately, help is at hand thanks to Rick Crawford and his 

Emerger Strategies company. 

Rick Crawford was born and 

raised in Savannah, Georgia, 

USA and his love for the 

outdoors began by boating, 

fishing and crabbing in the Lowcountry 

with his grandparents. 

After spending a few years living in 

Colorado and Wyoming after college, 

Crawford’s passion for fishing grew, as 

did his sense of responsibility to give back 

to the resource. 

Looking for a way to find a career 

with his newfound purpose, Crawford 

decided to go back to school and, after 

earning an MBA in Sustainable Business 

and spending several years in renewable 

energy and green building industries, 

he decided to marry his passions for 

sustainability and fishing. 

Crawford started by assessing the 

fishing industry and saw that many 

companies were donating to conservation 

non-profits, but most were not doing 

anything to clean up their own act 

and likely didn’t even know that their 

businesses were part of the problem when 

it comes to plastic pollution and climate 

impact. 

This seemed like a good opportunity to 

help those companies protect the fisheries 

that they love and Emerger Strategies was 

born in 2016. 

With you for the journey 

Emerger Strategies, based in Charleston, 

South Carolina, is a sustainable business 

consultancy that guides businesses on 

their sustainability journey by measuring 

and improving their sustainability 

performance. 

It works with companies at every 

stage of their sustainability journey and 

recommends that companies who are 

dipping their toe in the water try its free 

Simple Sustainability Assessment. 

For companies who may be committing 

“random acts of sustainability” Crawford 

recommends conducting a more 

comprehensive Sustainability Assessment, 

developing and executing a Strategic 


Sustainability Plan and communicating 

results to stakeholders through an annual 

Sustainability Report. 

If your company is being asked by your 

customers to supply sustainability and 

climate disclosures, they can help with 

Walmart Sustainability Compliance and 

REI Product Impact Standards. 

Emerger Strategies also works 

with clients to achieve third party 

certifications, such as 1% For The Planet 

and Climate Neutral. 

Most recently, Emerger Strategies has 

joined Climate Neutral’s service provider 

network, working alongside the program 

to offer consulting services to brands 

who want to become Climate Neutralcertified. 

Crawford said: “We’re thrilled to be 

part of this group of impact-oriented 

organisations working with brands to 

eliminate carbon emissions.” 

Other highlights include being featured 

in Garden & Gun and the Patagonia 

film, Drop, which follows a single drop 

of water from its starting point atop 

the Continental Divide to its final 

destination in the Pacific Ocean. 

Rick has also created the awardwinning 

podcast, The Sustainable Angler, 

whose purpose is to inspire anglers to 

protect the planet and founded the 

Fly Fishing Climate Alliance in 2020, 

which is made up of 50-plus fly fishing 

guides, shops, lodges and brands who are 

committed to net-zero emissions by 2050. 

Emerger Strategies 

www. emergerstrategies.com

FEATURE 

Panther Martin 

Six new Panther 

Martin lures on 

their way for 2024 

Anglers will be getting ready to fill their tackle boxes and catch their fill with some Sonic 

Whammy, SpikeADelic, Sonic Thumper and more exciting lures from the company that’s 

been churning out winner after winner since 1958. 

In 2024, family owned Panther 

Martin will be celebrating its 66th 

year with six exciting new lure series 

that will include over 50 colour and 

size combinations. 

Not only will there be innovative 

spinners like the Sonic Whammy, Panther 

Martin is also introducing some fan 

favourites in single and barbless hooks. 

Of course, all these lures have Panther 

Martin’s unique convex/concave blades 

with a shaft that goes directly through 

the blade. This design lets the blade 

spin freely, creating sonic vibrations that 

attract fish near and far. 

What’s new? 

Let’s start with the Hybrid Holographic 

series. These spinners are available in 

three popular sizes (2, 4 and 6) and 

three enticing colours (Silver Chartreuse 

White, Silver Blue and Gold Pink Blue). 

The most exciting part of these spinners, 

though, is the tails. The full-bodied 

dressings are made with an ultraviolet, 

silky smooth synthetic fibre that has 0 per 

cent water absorption! That means the 

tails stay fluffy and full underwater for 

hours. Zero per cent absorption, 100 per 

cent captivating. 

Next up, we have the Sonic Whammy. 

You’ve never seen a blade like this before. 

Yes, it’s Panther Martin’s signature blade 

but it’s split at the bottom with a slight 

downturn. This creates two separate blade 

rudders that chums up and magnifies the 

already great sonic action of a Panther 

Martin blade. The little downturn at the 

end of the split allows a unique thumping 

action to attract fish. Available in three 

sizes (2, 4 and 6) and six colours (Gold, 

Silver, Fire Tiger, Tiger Green, Rainbow 

Trout and Spotted Black). 

If single hooks are your go-to, Panther 

Martin has four more single hook lures 

coming. Two are dressed – the Single 

Hook Flies in Gold Black and Gold 

Brown – that include a single, supersharp 

barbed hook. 

The Single Hook Barbless series also 

has a super sharp hook. Catch and release 

customers have been asking for barbless 

hooks and Panther Martin delivered 

with its ever-popular Regular Gold and 

Rainbow Trout colour combinations. 

Both styles of single hook spinners are 

available in three sizes (2, 4 and 6). 

Get ready to reel in some monsters 

with the Sonic Thumper spin baits. 

With two genuine silver- or gold-plated 

blades, or a combination of both, brightly 

coloured silicone dressings and minnow 

heads, these Sonic Thumpers are sure to 

have you reeling in some monster bass. 

Small clear glass beads behind the first 

blade and a swivel in front of the second 

larger blade create the spinning action 

that call to the fish. A small second hole 

in the larger blade also produces bubbles 

that further add sonic action. Available 

in two sizes (6 and 9) and four colours 

(White, White Chartreuse, Fire Tiger 

and Blue Black). 

Finally, get ready for some ultrafabulous, 

ultraviolet SpikeADelic lures! 

These are totally groovy, with wild, eyepopping 

colours like Holographic Bubble 

Gum, WonderBread, Tangerine Surprise, 

Hulk, Glow Rainbow and Fire Tiger. 

These soft-bodied lures have a super 

sharp, weedless hook, brightly coloured 

and patterned bodies and blades, and a 

large, bright salmon bead. Since they are 

ultraviolet, SpikeADelics appear as one 

colour in daylight but, once underwater, 

they change colour and fish see them in 

all their glowing glory. Available in the 

six colours listed above in four sizes (4, 6, 

9 and 15). 

Visit Panther Martin in booth 2802 at 

ICAST 2023 to see all of these exciting 

lures and more or contact Mauricio@ 

PantherMartin.com 

Panther Martin 

www.PantherMartin.com 

Mauricio@PantherMartin.com 


Your B2B 

PRODUCT 

See us at 

SUPPLIER 

From rod repair to OEM components 

and fully built rods, we are the #1 b2b 

product supplier in the industry! 

• Custom Rod Building Demos 

• Hottest New Products 

• Rod Building Happy Hour 

BOOTH # 2015 

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STOPPIONI s.n.c. Firenze Italy Prod. Effevuemme s.r.l. 

Tel.+39 0558739615 -Fax +39 0558739648 stonfo@stonfo.com 

MEMBER 

BAIT TRAY STONFO 

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FOLDING 

Leader holders 

Magnets for hooks and small metal rigs 

Seat for big bait box 

Needle rests 

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Folding, light weight bait 

tray designed to meet the 

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Its structure, in durable 

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rounded and has no sharp 

edges. The compartments 

can hold various bait 

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Other important features 

make this bait tray a well 

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A universal metal screw 

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lLightweight gr 700 

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Rubber for positioning 

hooks 

Holes for water drainage 

Seat for bait boxes or accessories 

Open/closed 

block knob 

Chopping board 

Leader holders 

Slots for scissors and other 

utensils 

Moulded section with rule to measure 

the size of fishes

FEATURE 

AN EXCITING NEW CHAPTER 

FOR ANGLERS RESOURCE 

Now under new ownership, the exclusive distributor of Fuji products in North America is 

excited to announce several key product launches for ICAST 2023. 

For the first time in more than 

a decade, Anglers Resource – 

the exclusive North American 

distributor for Fuji products – 

will release six new product lines this year 

at ICAST 2023. 

“It really is a very exciting time for us 

at Anglers Resource,” says new president 

and CEO Bill Falconer. 

“I am so grateful to Carl Haber for all 

he did to build this business. I’m proud 

to stand on his shoulders and continue to 

grow Anglers Resource with an emphasis 

on delivering the best rod building 

components in the world backed by 

world-class customer service.” 

Falconer also lauds the efforts of 

long-time sales director Donnie Paul and 


marketing director Jim Ising. 

“Everybody in the industry knows and 

likes Donnie. He is sorely missed but he 

and his wife Sally are enjoying his wellearned 

retirement.” 

He also took a moment to address the 

passing of long-time marketing director 

Jim Ising. “Jim was my friend. He was 

instrumental in my acquisition of Anglers 

Resource. I would not be here without 

him. We were all devastated by his loss 

and my thoughts and prayers remain with 

his family. 

“That said, my entire team remains 

focused on the future. We are extremely 

excited about these new products. And I 

can assure you there will be more exciting 

announcements in the months to follow.” 

NEW RESOURCES 

In the reel seat category, Fuji has released 

the new flagship TCH spinning and casting 

seats. These seats feature revolutionary 

Titanium Carbon Hybrid technology that 

allows a seat weighing a mere 22g to be 

stronger and more crush-resistant than most 

aluminium seats on the market. 

They are currently available in sizes 

13 and 15 in both casting and spinning 

configurations with either shiny titanium or 

gunmetal T2 hoods. Additional larger sizes 

will be released later this year, along with 

matching grips in both high quality cork and 

EVA. 

On the guide front, Fuji’s game-changing 

KR concept guide trains have established 

a new industry benchmark for value and

Anglers Resource 

FEATURE 

ICAST 2023 will see see 

key rod guide launches. 

Prisma colour-changing metallic threads 

are also being added to the line up. 

How eye-catching are these? 

performance. For the first time, all the 

proprietary tangle-free and high-frame, 

small ring characteristics of the KR Concept 

Guide family are available with a completely 

redesigned Concept Slim O+ enhanced 

Aluminium Oxide ring. 

Completely braid safe and weighing a 

fraction of previous Aluminium Oxide and 

O ring guides, the new K+O series will be 

available in all KR Concept guide frames and 

sizes in both matte silver (CC) and gunmetal 

grey (BCC) Corrosion Control finishes. KR 

Concept Guide trains have never been so 

affordable and will be available in both sets 

and individual guides and tip tops. 

THREADS AND GRIPS 

Anglers Resource is also excited to announce 

a new line of Prisma colour-changing 

metallic threads. Available in six new colours 

of Size A 100m spools, these Prisma threads 

exhibit chameleon (colour change) properties 

that are perfect for decorative wraps and trim 

bands. 

Then there are the 22 additional colours 

of Fuji UltraPoly and NOCP threads in 

size A and D in both 100m and 1oz spools. 

These colours were developed in conjunction 

with Billy Vivona and the Northeastern 

Rodbuilders (NERBs). 

Meanwhile, an extensive selection of 

custom grips, foregrips and fighting butts 

has been designed by Falconer exclusively for 

custom rod builders in North America. 

He explained: “As a custom rod builder 

for 28 years, I had no idea how many people 

preferred the simplicity of a handle kit versus 

turning your own grips from scratch.” 

While there are several handle kit options 

Fuji’s KR Concept Guides will be available 

with redesigned rings. 

available on the market from Fuji and 

other suppliers, Falconer wasn’t sold on the 

offerings. 

“There is nothing wrong with the kits 

that are on the market now, but they haven’t 

changed much in the last two decades. I 

basically developed a set of custom split 

grip options that look like the grips I shape 

instead of a cookie-cutter factory handle 

assemblies.” 

Thirty grip options will be available in both 

high quality cork and EVA including several 

new sets designed specifically for slow pitch 

rods. 

Falconer also noted a gap in the market as 

it relates to high-quality reel seat arbors. 

“Like most custom builders, I have had a 

hard time finding arbors to fit all of our Fuji 

seats consistently. Quality control as well as 

fit and finish has been all over the map for 

the last three years. And that’s if you could 

even find arbors in stock.” 

The Anglers Resource team decided to 

take matters into their own hands and are 

now offering long one-piece arbors to fit 

Anglers Resource CEO Bill 

Falconer out on the water.. 

every seat in the current Fuji line up. 

“These are dense, void-free arbors built 

to our custom specifications for perfect fit 

and finish. I really think custom builders are 

going to appreciate these premium quality 

arbors,” Bill added. 

All products will be in stock as of ICAST 

2023. 

For pricing please reach out to info@ 

anglersresource.net or call +1 251 943 4491. 

ANGLERS RESOURCE 

info@anglersresource.net 

TCH reel seats are incredibly light yet super-strong. 


49

FEATURE 

ROSCO 

ROSCO 

champions 

‘Made in 

America’ 

American terminal tackle manufacturer 

Rome Specialty Co., Inc., (ROSCO) has 

announced the creation of the American 

Made Partner (AMP) Program as it presses 

for more US-manufactured fishing kit. 

ROSCO created the AMP 

Program to recognise its dealers, 

wholesalers and manufacturers 

who are committed to selling 

American-made products. 

These dealers and wholesalers realise 

that the shelf space in the tackle store 

that they dedicate to American-made 

tackle directly supports American jobs, 

and the manufacturers know that using 

domestic terminal tackle and components 

adds significant value to their finished 

product. 

“There used to be a proud and robust 

fishing tackle manufacturing industry 

here in the USA,” says ROSCO president 

Jack Butts (pictured above). 

He added: “There are only a few of us 

left as most large American companies 

moved their production offshore years 

ago.” 

Butts would like to see a resurgence 

in the American-made tackle industry. 

“In an era of geopolitical uncertainty, 

it makes sense to support Americanowned 

and operated businesses. The only 

true way to avoid tariffs and secure your 

supply chain is to buy domestically,” he 

explained. 


He hopes that by encouraging ROSCO 

customers to “Buy American” and in turn 

encourage their customers to do the same, 

a movement can be started to bring a 

once thriving manufacturing community 

back to the continent. 

Rewards all round 

The AMP program is designed to educate 

the American consumer on the benefits 

of the “Buy American” movement and 

reward the dealers for supporting it. 

The only criterion for membership is to 

be a current customer of Rome Specialty 

Co and all the information can be found 

on www.americanmadepartner.com. 

The firm is currently offering a special 

during show season. New dealers that 

want to join can receive 20 per cent off 

dealer prices for a qualifying purchase on 

any Sampo, ROSCO or Donnmar retail 

products just for signing up. 

All participants in the AMP program 

will receive a welcome package that 

includes a window cling to proudly 

display their membership in the program 

and one participant will be honoured 

every year with an award. 

Butts added: “We realise that fisherman 

have a lot of choices when it comes 

to terminal tackle. We hope that by 

rewarding dealers for informing their 

customers on the benefits of buying 

American-made products, together we 

will help support good paying jobs right 

here in the USA.” 

ROSCO 

www.americanmadepartner.com

AGENTS 

WANTED 

Leeda is looking for skilled and driven agents 

to boost its European sales team. 

Focussing on our key in-house brands, MAP and Wychwood, we are looking 

to recruit agents who have an in-depth knowledge of key European territories 

and the changing marketplace. 

Do you have what it takes to push the brands to the next level in your country? 

Get in touch by submitting your resume and details to 

nick.gritton@madison.co.uk 

Check out the brands here 

GAME 

PREDATOR 

CARP 

MATCH & FEEDER

FEATURE 

Flying Fisherman 

FLYING FISHERMAN 

ADDS FLOATING 

SUNGLASSES 

US sunglasses brand Flying Fisherman understands the 

frustrations of losing your glasses in the water while 

fishing – it happens all too often. Now it has solved the 

problem with its floating glasses range. 

Has this ever happened to you? 

You’re out on the water and 

the boat is cruising along on 

plane when you turn around 

to check behind you and poof… your 

sunglasses fly off and end up in the water, 

quickly sinking straight to the bottom. 

Or you’re wearing sunscreen and 

the mix of sunscreen and sweat gets 

slippery… when you look down, your 

sunglasses slip off and take a dive into the 

water, never to be seen again 

It’s a gut-wrenching feeling and can 

get expensive! 

What about a floating lanyard, you may 

ask? 

The response from many is they don’t 

like the cord on the back of the neck and 

find it uncomfortable – especially floating 

lanyards that can be bulky. 

After 39 years in business, the Flying 

Fisherman team has heard it all, with 

countless stories of high-priced, premium 

sunglasses lost overboard by customers 

replacing them with more affordable, 

polarised eyewear options. 

STAYING AFLOAT 

For 2023-2024 Flying Fisherman is 

taking it a step further, introducing three 

new frame styles with innovative, floating 

frame technology – the Rafter, Lagoon 

and Sea Bean. 

The eco-friendly frames are made with 

TPX material that’s less dense than any 

other plastic polymer and lighter than 

water, allowing them to float. So you’ll 

never lose your sunglasses again. 

TPX is also highly durable, flexible 

and heat resistant. Flying Fisherman’s 

AcuTint polarised lenses improve visual 

comfort, enhance contrast and clarity, 

eliminate annoying glare and block 100 

per cent of harmful UVA and UVB rays. 

The Triacetate lenses are also impact 

and scratch resistant and have an antisaltwater 

coating. This combination 

makes the new Floaters incredibly 

comfortable for all day wear. 

IN THE RANGE 

The Rafter is a medium-fit, wrap design 

built for fishing with wide temples for 

generous, side blocking coverage, and eight 

base curve lenses. 

It’s available in a choice of matte black 

frames with smoke gray, silver mirror or blue 

mirror and tortoise frames with green mirror 

lenses. 

The Lagoon features a timeless design for 

classic styling on and off the water. Fit is 

medium with six base lenses. Colour options 

are matte black with smoke gray, blue mirror 

or green mirror lenses and tortoise frames 

with blue mirror. 

The Sea Bean is a small-to-medium-fit, 

round frame with unisex styling and a six 

base curve lens. Four colourways are offered 

– gloss black with smoke, gloss black with 

blue mirror, tortoise with amber lenses and 

crystal champagne with smoke gray lenses. 

Flying Fisherman Floaters will debut at 

ICAST 2023, in the New Product Showcase 

and in the Flying Fisherman booth #5130, 

along with other new products. 

FLYING FISHERMAN 

www.flyingfisherman.com 


ATTENTION ROD BUILDERS: 

Make A 

Splash! 

The TiForged Family of guides are requested more by rod builders than any other guide train 

in the world. With the versitility of double foot, single foot, ceramic rings, and sizes the TiForged 

Snagless guides are the perfect choice for any rod builder, designer, or brand looking to have 

the best guides on their rods. 

KEY FEATURES 

Snagless 3166 or solid 

titanium alloy guide frame 

designs in spinning & casting 

configurations. 

Hardened frames for extreme 

strength, keeping 

rings secure and safe 

from frame deformation. 

Slim ring design to reduce 

weight, polished round for 

increased casting distances 

& extended line life 

Available with American 

Tackle’s proprietary Nanolite, 

Duralite or ultra-slim Pentalite 

ring guide options 

Contact your American Tackle Distributor today & start 

building with TiForged Guides - and see the 

TiForged Family of Guides at 

BOOTH #4030 

AMERICANTACKLE.US 

For more info, contact sales@americantackle.us

FEATURE 

SIMMS CELEBRATES 

30 YEARS OF WATERPROOF/ 

BREATHABILITY 

Innovation drives all industries – and fishing is no exception. Boats, engines, rods, reels and 

even lure and fly designs have all dramatically improved over the last 30 years, and it’s the 

case with waders, too… 

Although not always viewed 

through the lens of gear, 

technical fishing apparel has 

also seen its fair share of 

performative advancement. 

In spring 1993, arguably the most 

significant innovation in technical fishing 

apparel hit the market – the original 

Simms Gore-Tex Stockingfoot Wader. 

Designed, developed, and built by 

hand, heart and soul in Bozeman, 

Montana, Simms Gore-Tex Stockingfoot 

Wader introduced the fishing industry/ 

community to a brand-new, gamechanging 

concept – waterproof/ 

breathability. 

Prior to the introduction of this 

important innovation, the technology 

of the day was neoprene… and thick 

neoprene at that. Yes, it was waterproof 

and quite durable, but talk about a sweaty, 

uncomfortable, immobile way to stay dry! 

ANSWERING THE QUESTIONS 

Initially, the notion of waterproof/ 

breathability was challenging for 

consumers to grasp. How could a porous 

fabric be waterproof? Not to mention, 

visually, Simms’ new creation looked 

flimsy and raised loads of questions as to 


The very first waterproof 

breathable wader… 

introduced by Simms in 1993. 

whether or not they could last one fishing 

trip, let alone multiple seasons. 

On top of that, they were very 

expensive. In short, on all fronts from the 

technology to the aesthetics, to the price, 

the OG Simms Gore-Tex Stockingfoot 

Wader was breaking all the rules and 

questioning all the norms. 

Back in 1993, the Simms team 

consisted of somewhere between 15 

and 17 passionate employees (including 

Wader Makers). While the small, 

dedicated team knew they had challenges 

aplenty to overcome, they were equally 

confident that they were onto something 

big, something important, something 

that could completely revolutionise an 

entire product category and truly redefine 

technical performance. 

So how did they do it? In a word – 

education. 

EDUCATION, EDUCATION, 

EDUCATION 

Simms’ vice-president of culture and 

community, Diane Bristol, was among 

this dedicated team and has vivid 

recollections of the educational process. 

“Educating consumers and retailers 

on breathable technology was never 

ending. Looking back, we were about 

as aggressive as a brand could be on the 

trade show front. We attended, displayed 

and demoed at virtually every show there 

was in order to showcase that wader

Simms 

FEATURE 

and, more importantly, demonstrate its 

technology” says Bristol. 

“We’d explain the technology, show 

macro illustrations of how it worked and, 

of course, we were doing the glove demo 

incessantly.” 

The glove demo Bristol refers to 

was simple but incredibly effective and 

became a trademark activity at every 

show. 

It was a way for Simms to give 

countless consumers and retailers a 

tangible taste of a foreign concept/ 

challenging technology to verbalise. 

Demo participants would receive two 

mittens. One was made of a waterproof 

non-breathable material, the other was 

made out of the waterproof/breathable 

Gore-Tex membrane. 

They would put the mittens on and 

dunk their hands in a tub of cold water. 

After a minute or so, they’d remove their 

hands and realise the one covered in the 

non-breathable material was wet with 

sweat. When they removed the Gore-Tex 

mitten, they’d notice that hand was bone 

dry. 

“In my mind that demo really moved 

the needle. It was almost like a magic 

trick. That’s when we really started 

getting consumer and retailer buy in,” 

says Bristol. 

While most magicians refuse to reveal 

the secret to their tricks, in the case of 

waterproof/breathability, it’s not a trick, 

it’s science. In a nutshell, the waterproof 

membrane’s weave is loose enough to 

allow water vapor to escape but tight 

enough to prevent water molecules from 

entering. 

Make no mistake, this technology came 

from WL Gore & Associates but, really 

and truly, it was Simms that was on the 

ground floor educating, demoing and 

achieving buy-in momentum from the 

fishing industry and community. 

According to Bristol, “We knew we had 

something good in the works. We just 

had to hound, encourage and push Gore 

to continue innovating and making subtle 

change after subtle change until the fabric 

was able to meet the incredibly high 

breathability and durability standards we 

set for ourselves.” 

MOVING FORWARD 

Since the initial launch, waterproof/ 

breathable waders have become the 

norm. Simms was the first to put this 

technology into the marketplace and has 

been doing it longer than any other brand 

in the fishing space. Through the years, 

Simms’ wader collection has continued 

to advance in terms of performance, 

durability, and fishy features. As a result, 

Simms has acquired more industry and 

consumer awards for its waders than any 

other wader manufacturer out there. 

After 30 years of wader evolution, 

Simms’ appetite to innovate and uncover 

the next best cutting-edge technology has 

only intensified. 

As an example, this summer, Simms’ 

wader collection will expand with 

the release of the all-new Confluence 

Stockingfoot, a wader boasting a stretch 

fabric package and an incredibly unique 

knee construction designed for anglers 

that refuse to let any obstacle get in the 

way of presenting a cast in those hard to 

reach and often untouched runs, pools 

and riffles. 

Simms waders stem from innovative 

design, cutting-edge materials and 

tenacious testing. 

They’re also the end result of a 

painstaking process driven by Wader 

Makers who pledge allegiance to it every 

day. 

SIMMS 


See the debut of Simms’ all-new Confluence 

Wader at ICAST this July. 


55

FEATURE 

St. Croix 

SEVIIN – 

AN ANGLING 

LEGACY AND 

POTENTIAL 

IN ONE 

After spending the last seven decades building the 

‘Best Rods on Earth’, St. Croix Rod has taken its 75 

years of design and manufacturing expertise and 

focused it on a range of reels under the name SEVIIN. 

St. Croix Rod has learned a thing 

or two about crafting world-class 

fishing equipment that gives anglers 

the upper hand. The company didn’t 

achieve its leadership by following others; 

its trust has been earned through die-hard 

persistence, honest innovation and placing 

anglers at the centre of everything it does. 

In 2023, St. Croix Rod applies that same 

Midwest work ethic and angler-driven 

mission to the next chapter of its story – 

one that’s laser-focused on reels and reels 

alone. 

SEVIIN reels are meticulously 

engineered and purpose-built to help 

anglers conquer every species on every 

piece of water on the planet. Seven seas, 

seven continents, seven days a week, 

SEVIIN reels are fueled by a collective love 

of fishing surpassed only by a passion to 

deliver the most reliable and advanced reels 

on the water. 

Whatever fishing means to you, the reel 

in your hand should help create better 

experiences. Like your rod, your fishing 

reel fosters growth and plays a critical role 

in your angling story. Cast by cast, day by 

day, season by season, the best reels help 

us check boxes, earn victories and guide us 

towards the next big challenge. 

NOT JUST MAKING UP NUMBERS 

SEVIIN shares St. Croix DNA and was 

born from the same, sharing its skills 

and resources while being designed and 


marketed to improve the angling experience, 

regardless of the specific rods used. 

While both St. Croix and SEVIIN share 

the same mission of elevating the angling 

experience, each brand will remain distinct 

and be supported by dedicated resources. 

The SEVIIN Team is comprised of reel 

experts focused solely on reels. 

SEVIIN’s retail partners will serve 

as valuable team members and brand 

ambassadors to anglers, with these reels 

available for order by any retail customer, 

regardless of whether or not they carry St. 

Croix rods. 

St. Croix Rod CEO, Scott Forristall said: 

“As we excitedly prepare to announce details 

on our initial line-up of reels in the coming 

weeks, we want to take this opportunity to 

firmly establish the promise we’re making to 

anglers and to the fishing industry. 

“SEVIIN only exists to serve anglers. 

Their satisfaction with our products is our 

only satisfaction and measure of success 

as a brand. Like the anglers we serve, our 

own angling passions run deep, and we 

take care of our own. We will provide 

uncompromising customer service from 

right here in Park Falls, Wisconsin to keep 

anglers who place their trust in SEVIIN 

reels where they belong – on the water.” 

To make sure this promise is kept, 

SEVIIN Reels will offer an accelerated, 

no-questions-asked, one-year return and 

replacement policy to any SEVIIN reel 

owner who registers their reel after purchase. 

ON THE HORIZON 

SEVIIN Reels will announce and reveal 

its initial product launch at ICAST 

2023. This will consist of one series of 

baitcasting reels (GF), two series of 

spinning reels (GS and GX), and one 

saltwater-specific spinning reel series 

(GSW). 

SEVIIN reels feature internal 

componentry – manufactured and tested 

to exacting specifications – delivering 

an optimal combination of performance, 

durability, longevity and value. 

Additionally, the proprietary aesthetics of 

SEVIIN reels are conceived to stand out in 

the retail marketplace while contributing 

to pride of use and ownership. 

GF Series baitcasting reels will be 

available to dealers and anglers in 

September, with GS and GX spinning 

reels available from January 2024 and 

GSW saltwater spinning reels from 

February 2024. 

SEVIIN Reels has a rolling five-year 

product funnel that extends annually, 

which means new SEVIIN products 

will be available to dealers and angers 

each year. The SEVIIN Product Team is 

currently developing products for 2025 

and 2026. 

See them at ICAST 2023 in booth 

#3026 or visit the website. 

ST. CROIX 

www.seviinreels.com

FEATURE 

Mazzaferro 

EXCELLENCE 

AND QUALITY AS 

STANDARD FOR 

MAZZAFERRO 

For 70 years, Brazilian line manufacturer Mazzaferro has offered top quality products. 

Although originally focused mainly on the Latin American market, in recent years it has 

expanded its global reach and is now present in almost 60 countries. 

Family, work and friends were 

the pillars for the foundation of 

Mazzaferro way back in 1953 in 

Brazil. 

Formed by committed Italian 

immigrants, it became the first synthetic 

fibre and yarn industry in Latin America 

and today it is thought to be the second 

largest line manufacturer in the world. 

Since its foundation, Mazzaferro has 

always sought excellence and quality in its 

products, thanks to the use of innovative 

technology and processes. 

Most importantly, the company works 

to generate added value for society, 

as both customers and employees, 

transforming industrial raw materials 

into a wide variety of different but 

distinct products, while at the same time 

positively impacting the daily lives of 

thousands of people and other businesses. 


SETTING THE STANDARD 

Mazzaferro offers a selection of great 

brands to the tackle market, including 

well-known names such as Grilon, Araty, 

Trilon and Dourado. 

Crucially, these are seen as a national 

reference in the quality of fishing lines, 

fibres, ropes and nets. 

The safety and quality of all 

Mazzaferro products is vital and the 

company is able to guarantee this through 

rigorous laboratory tests at every stage. 

At its facility is a special laboratory, 

where the quality and production teams 

are committed to delivering beyond what 

is specified in the products, ensuring a 

great experience for all users. 

As it continues to expand globally and 

attend more international trade shows, 

it is keen to carry on its tireless work to 

produce the best fishing lines, both under 

its own brands and via OEM. 

As the company says: “We are 

Mazzaferro, a company that will 

continue to take new steps every day to 

overcome challenges through our passion, 

commitment and high performance, 

values that motivate us to innovate and 

grow every day.” 

MAZZAFERRO 

www.mazzaferropesca.com.br 

Mazzaferro’s HQ houses a laboratory 

where each product is rigorously tested.

FEATURE 

Energofish 

RAPID 

SOLUTIONS FOR 

MODERN ANGLERS 

Development is one of the major focuses of the Hungarian company, Energofish, with the 

team constantly designing new gear to make anglers’ lives easier. Two great examples are 

its Benzar Mix Jetty Adapter and its Rapid Method Kits. 

The engineers and testers of 

Energofish are continuously 

working on new and modern 

products to ensure everyone is 

fishing at their optimum. 

One look at the Benzar Mix Jetty 

Adapter and it’s obvious that this is 

something brand new. 

This is a tool that has been missing from 

the range so far but now it is available for 

all the anglers who prefer fishing from piers, 

platforms or jetties. 

Fishing on these structures always 

presents some difficulties regarding comfort, 

for example the placement of fishing rods. 

Using rod pods is not an acceptable 

option for everybody because these are not 

necessarily items carried by certain anglers, 

for instance those keen on feeder fishing. 

Instead of rod pods, many fishermen 

prefer using bank sticks. The only question 

is how to fix them into platforms. 

ADAPT AND THRIVE 

The revolutionary Jetty Adapters are 

what many anglers have been needing for 

years. These premium-made products are 

built of 100 per cent stainless steel, which 

guarantees maximum service life, no matter 

how difficult the conditions and situations. 

Thanks to the smart fixing system, the 

Jetty Adapter stands stable regardless of the 


width of the platform’s boards. 

The contra-tightening ring guarantees 

fixed positions for the bank sticks inserted 

into the Jetty Adapter. So it’s as easy to set 

up and ensure stability as it would be fishing 

on a grassy bank. 

RAPID METHODS 

Method feeder techniques are becoming 

more and more popular across Europe so it 

is no surprise that companies are focusing 

the most on this field of fishing. 

Energofish with its dynamically 

developing brand, Benzar Mix, intends 

to provide professional and easy-to-use 

solutions for all who plan to try this exciting 

style of fishing. 

This idea was the background of the 

Rapid Method Kits and Sets, offering 

The Jetty Adapter ensures 

stability for your rods on 

any platform. 

complex and 100 per cent ready-to-use end 

tackle for method feeder anglers. 

This terminal tackle is made of high 

quality swivels, lines, hooks and flat feeders 

using long-established knots so all the 

elements are reliable and suitable for 

catching many big carp. 

Alongside this, the sets contain some 

hook baits and a mould as well, perfectly 

suited to the flat feeder. 

With the Rapid Method Kits and Sets, 

anglers do not need to know how to tie 

hooks or how to make the ultimate end 

tackle. Their only task is to go fishing and 

enjoy the advantages of these smart, rapid 

solutions. 

ENERGOFISH 

www.energofish.com

YOU LOVE FISHING, YOU CLEAN UP TRASH ON THE WATER, YOU VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME, YOU SUPPORT CONSERVATION, 

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FULL RANGE OF TERMINAL TACKLE AND ACCESSORIES 

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FEATURE 

Great Lakes Finesse 

THE SECRET OF 

REDEFINING 

FINESSE FISHING 

Faced with pressured fish and clear water, a team of successful tournament anglers not 

only developed innovate new ways of catching them but also redefined an entire fishing 

technique and so Great Lakes Finesse was born… 

It’s not often that you can say you have 

developed a whole new style of fishing 

but a group of tournament anglers in 

North America have done just that 

– and built a fast-growing brand into the 

bargain. 

Around 10 years ago Dan Miguel and 

his tournament friends began finding that 

traditional methods of targeting smallmouth 

bass and other species were not as successful 

as they once were. 

The clear water of the Great Lakes 

coupled with additional pressure on the fish 

of more and more boats and anglers and 

fishing technology such as forward-facing 

sonar meant that the fish were smarter and 

harder to catch, so something new was 

needed to give these anglers the success they 

craved. 

Downsizing seemed to be the obvious 

answer but the team discovered that many 

of the existing so-called ‘finesse’ baits just 

weren’t up to the task of tackling the bigger 

specimens which tournament fishermen 

sought. 

So, the Canada-based Great Lakes 

Finesse team set about developing and 

creating their own, firstly by modifying 


some of the baits already on the market by 

upgrading various parts of them and then 

simply by producing their own custom 

moulds and using premium materials 

throughout. 

The result is a range of top-quality finesse 

baits that has redefined the entire sector and 

led to unprecedented demand as the baits 

have proven to catch pretty much every 

species out there. 

Dan revealed: “Great Lakes Finesse 

challenges the status quo with a new 

super finesse and fine detailed approach to 

catching these highly pressured fish. 

“What makes Great Lakes Finesse unique 

is our intense commitment to quality but, 

more importantly, our focus on the small 

details other brands ignore. Details such as 

matte finish, neutral buoyancy and scuffed 

patterns on smaller profile baits, make a 

significant difference in triggering more 

bites. Top pros have been modifying their 

baits for years to achieve this level of bait 

performance but now these secrets are 

available right out of the package.” 

GREAT LAKES FINESSE 

www.greatlakesfinesse.com 

DEALING WITH DEMAND 

Such was demand that Great Lakes 

Finesse found it hard to keep up 

with production but, thankfully, help 

was at hand with PRADCO recently 

adding it to its roster of great 

outdoor brands. 

Dan explained: “We had eight 

products in our line up originally but 

it was hard to find time to design 

and develop more when we needed 

to simply meet the existing level of 

demand, which continues to grow. 

“So having PRADCO’s know-how 

and infrastructure behind us is 

already making a real difference to 

what we do and how we do it. 

“Alongside hugely successful gear 

– such as our Sneaky Underspin 

paired with a 2.75in Drop Minnow, 

which basically catches everything – 

we can now refine existing products 

while also continuing to innovate 

new ones.”

We'll see you in Orlando! 

July 11-14 

Orlando, FL 

POWERED BY 

Orange County Convention Center 

ICASTfishing.org

2023 FISH TALES CUP 

THE LURE MASTER CHALLENGE 

Start registration, welcome to sponsor us 

Dates: 13-17 August 2023 

Location: Yunbing, Pahang, Malaysia 

VENUE:Kuala Rompin,Pahang,Malaysia 

consultation:robert.li365@gmail.com

The 2023 Nanri Leisure Fishing Challenge 

Concluded Successfully 

On May 2, "Putian Sports and Leisure Experience Season 

in Puyang" Putian City Sports and Leisure Experience 

Season Xiuyu Station, Putian City Sports Assisting Rural 

Revitalization Activities and "Puyang Cool Summer 

Embracing 'Bao' South Day" 2023 Nanri Leisure Fishing 

The challenge was officially closed at Nanri Island. This 

event is guided by CRAA Rocky Fishing Branch, Fujian 

Fishery Industry Association, Putian Sports Bureau, 

Xiuyu District National Fitness Leading Group, hosted 

by Xiuyu District Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, 

Xiuyu District Nanri Town People's Government, Fujian 

Tourism Co-organized by the Fishing Brothers Group and 

organized by the Xiuyu District Fishing Sports Association, 

the competition attracted 30 top players from all over the 

country including Taiwan. 

As the venue for this challenge, Nanri Island in Xiuyu 

District is favored by sea fishing enthusiasts because of its 

unique geographical location and rich fish resources. After 

two days of fierce competition, finally, Lin Lebin from 

Raoping, Guangdong stood out and won the first place in 

the total weight of the target fish (bream) with a score of 

10.64 kg. Zhang Canhui from Fujian Quanzhou won the 

single-tail champion of the individual target fish (bream). , 

Liang Guodong from Xiamen, Fujian won the single-tailed 

non-target fish championship. 

It is understood that in order to increase the atmosphere of 

the event, the organizing committee also set up supporting 

activities such as parent-child fishing experience on the 

spot, so that the families of the contestants can deepen their 

understanding of sea fishing knowledge while experiencing 

the fun of playing. It is worth mentioning that this challenge also specially invited a Yutaku teacher from Zhoushan, 

Zhejiang to come to the scene on Monday to teach Nanri children how to make Yutaku, which is very important to 

Nanri's fish culture and fish resource protection. 

In addition, in order to expand the tourism consumption scene and enhance the experience of tourists on the island, 

during the "May 1st" holiday, Nanri Island also set up a golden beach music festival, travel agents and experts stepping 

on the line, the first camping life culture festival, abalone culture science popularization A series of activities such as 

exhibitions have further enriched the cultural connotation of the scenic spot and enhanced the attractiveness of the 

tourism brand of Nanri Island. 

In the future, Nanri Island will also follow the trend, plan the layout, improve tourism infrastructure, cultivate and 

introduce more characteristic cultural tourism projects, and provide tourists with a better travel experience, so that 

more tourists can feel the beauty of Nanri Island. Have fun, have fun, have fun.

2023 Wuhan China Fishing Challenge 

On the morning of May 4th, the "2023 China Wuhan 

Fishing Challenge", which has attracted the attention of 

fishing fans all over the country, was grandly opened at 

the Cangbu Villa Ecological Fishing Ground in Xinzhou 

District, Wuhan, Hubei. 

CAA leaders and staff, all athletes, referees, and 

media personnel participated in and witnessed the grand 

opening of this fishing event. 

This fishing challenge held in Xinzhou District, 

Wuhan, Hubei Province is also the first natural water 

fishing competition held by the China Fishing Sports 

Association in 2023. The competition attracted 156 

teams, 312 fishing masters and Fishing enthusiasts 

compete in the same field. This is not only a competitive 

arena for China's top anglers, but also a gorgeous stage 

for fishing enthusiasts to show their personal style. 

On behalf of the China Fishing Sports Association, 

Secretary-General Su Baosheng of CAA handed over 

the flag of the "2023 China Wuhan Fishing Challenge" 

to the host of the competition. Yao Ruanan, director of 

Wuhan Social Sports Guidance Center, received the flag. 

During the opening ceremony and the competition, 

Hubei Satellite TV conducted a high-definition satellite 

live broadcast of the whole process. The number of 

online viewers of Changjiang Cloud exceeded 2.1 

million; the number of online viewers of Jingchu 

Impression Live Room reached 200,000. The Yangtze 

River Cloud Cultural Tourism Platform also broadcast 

live simultaneously, and you can watch it back at any 

time. Douyin's hot list in the same city has reached 4.147 

million followers, ranking third. 

Set up the stage for the competition and serve the 

enterprise. At the competition site, Xinzhou local 

enterprises such as Ziwei Urban Garden, Fengwa 

Ancient Village, Paddy Field Memory, My Homeland 

(Wuhan) Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 

Dianxiyuan Ecological Development Co., Ltd., Taohe 

Cheng Xueya Doctor Banya Shop, etc. Brown sugar, 

Taohe salted duck, organic vegetables and other local 

specialties and characteristic agricultural products were 

exhibited and sold, which attracted everyone's attention. 

The Wuhan Fishing Challenge lasted for two days, 

with a total of four games, and each game lasted for 3 

hours. The competition event is the 4.5-5.4m hand pole 

fishing mixed fish team weight points competition. 

Each team (2 people) has one person to fish and one 

person to assist, and can be rotated arbitrarily during 

the competition. The team's total score and final ranking 

will be determined by the sum of the total scores of each 

team's two days and four games.

China Shicong Fishing Contest Winner Prize 

500,000 Yuan 

On May 14, the "Yicun Zhuangyuan Lake" Cup 

2023 China Shicong Fishing Competition closed at 

the Zhuangyuan Lake Fishing Center in Shicong 

Town, Nanxun District, Huzhou City, Zhejiang 

Province. 600 teams and 1,200 athletes successfully 

completed the established competition tasks after 

two days and four games. Shenlong Fishing Club 

won the championship of this competition and won 

the grand prize of 500,000 yuan. Liu Songsong's 

sixth team and Zhejiang Shaoxing Huzichen's third 

team won the runner-up and third place respectively. 

The champion said: I am very happy to be able 

to win the championship. Everyone knows that 

Zhuangyuan Lake has released many fish species 

for this competition. We have caught fish for so 

many years, and some of them have never been 

caught. In the first game, we were also very 

confused. We changed the most line sets. After four 

adjustments, we finally changed to 1.5+0.8. We 

mainly aimed at the fish situation and wanted to try 

it in many ways. Today's last game, I feel a lot of 

pressure, because after the first three games, I am 

temporarily ranked first, and I have the possibility 

of winning the championship. Fortunately, I was 

drawn to the big side, and the position is better. 

We just thought about how to catch this fish well. 

After the first three games, the fish were afraid of 

loose guns. We changed our tactics to reduce the 

vigilance of the fish. By fishing the bottom and 

catching larger fish, the final effect was not bad. We 

took the total score of the four games The score of 7 

points won the first place.

FEATURE 

EWF 

EWF EVENT BACK 

TO FULL STRENGTH 

The 18th edition of the Experience the World of Fly Fishing (EWF), the largest 

fly-fishing show in mainland Europe, returned to its former glory, with around 2,600 visitors 

on a weekend back in April. 

Visitors flooded to the 

Fürstenfeld venue in Germany 

from all over Europe for the 

annual EWF show and enjoyed 

numerous stands, the extensive fly-casting 

program, the special activities for women 

and children (including fly casting and 

fly tying), the demonstrations in fly tying 

by over 45 well-known fly tiers and the 

beautiful spring weather. 

The program for ladies included a 

presentation on the history of fly fishing 

by women up to the present time and 

30-minute workshops for newcomers and 

advanced female fly casters. 

Other presentations dealt with new 

developments in fly line production 

by Scientific Anglers, the problems 

with pink salmon in many Norwegian 

rivers and numerous new fly fishing 

destinations across the world. 

Among the well-known fly casters 

that gave demonstrations at the outside 

pool and along the Amper canal were 

Jan Kubala, Erhard Loidl and Wolfgang 

Pijawetz from Austria, Arve Evensen 

from Norway, Christopher Rownes and 


Paolo Rezzonico from Switzerland, 

René Gerken from Denmark, Mike 

McFarland from the USA, William Peake 

and Tom Brown from Scotland, Katka 

Švagrová from the Czech Republic and 

Paddy McDonnell from Ireland; all of 

this under the expert guidance of Jürgen 

Friesenhahn. 

A special highlight this year were the 

“Art & Craft” artists that showed how 

leaders were furled, fly reels were built, 

(fish) leather accessories were made, fly 

boxes and porcelain were painted, how 

salmon hooks were made and there were 

also two art painters present with a stand 

full of their paintings. 

Another highlight was the “Tenkara 

Village” with guests from Japan and the 

USA. There were also, for the first time, 

demonstrations in Tenkara fishing at the 

fly casting pool outside. 

By selling donated products, a record 

amount of money was again gathered for 

the Children’s Hospital in Munich. 

The next Experience the World of 

Fly Fishing event will be held on April 

13th and 14th 2024, again at the same 

location, the Event Forum Fürstenfeld 

near Munich in Germany. 

EWF 

www.e-w-f.com

Ultimate Roll-Up Fishing Skiff Now Even Better! 

Inflatable Sea Eagle ® FishSkiff 16 

The super sleek, super stable inflatable FishSkiff 16 now features a patented 

drop-stitch outside keel for precise steering and better open sea motoring performance! 

Due to the new ultra-light, ultra-strong construction that bonds two layers of reinforced PVC 

together the FishSkiff is super tough and super stable. Great for 1, 2 or 3 anglers. 

NEW High Pressure 

Drop-Stitch Keel 

Inflates To 15 psi 

• 16’ x 54” Inflated • 58” x 27” x 13” Deflated • 95 lbs. with Transom 

• Low Profile 6” Thick Drop Stitch Chambers • Inflates to 15 psi 

• Takes Up To 10 hp Motor • Motors Up To 21.5 mph 

16’ Boat Rolls up 

to fit in a bag! 

WholeSale@SeaEagle.com 

for Dealer Info 

Dept. TT073B 

NEW PACBAY 

CHARONOSAURUS 

ROLLER GUIDES 

The world’s best-known saltwater anglers trust in PACBAY’s fishing tackle components and accessories for their 

reliable and faultless performance. With a view to preserving its valued reputation, PACBAY has maintained a strict 

program of quality control in the making of each and every product with the PACBAY name carved on it. 

In the same spirit as always, PACBAY has now launched its brand-new Charonosaurus roller guides. 

- Aluminum openwork construction reduces weight but doesn’t reduce strength - Deeply embedded roller design restricts line from cramming between 

roller and frame - Inbuilt Teflon tube bearing to diminish friction and heat - Tube bearing treated with TEFLON for performance and constant lubrication 

- Perfectly shaped guide feet to fit blanks with tip size - The structure of the arch-bridge design reduces weight as well as reducing the restrain between 

blank and guide - Structure designed to accommodate knots and connection of wind-on leader – line never gets stuck 

- PACBAY roller tip-tops (model # ERT,EMRT,EJRT) are an excellent match for these guides - All products patented. 

Build Great Fishing Rods 

info@fishpacbay.com 

www.fishpacbay.com

FEATURE 

Fish Monkey 

FISH MONKEY SOCKS IT 

TO THE COMPETITION 

Fish Monkey and Hunt Monkey have both enjoyed tremendous growth since their launch in 

2016, with a laser focus on producing the highest quality performance fishing and hunting 

gloves on the market. Now it has branched out into the sock sector. 

To date there are more than 47 

task-specific fishing and hunting 

gloves currently available from 

Fish and Hunt Monkey. Each 

brand is passionate and unrelenting in the 

pursuit of producing the highest quality, 

most functional gloves on the market. 

They have now burst into the 

performance sock market for hunters, 

anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts. 

They have teamed up with one of the 

oldest and most respected sock mills in the 

United States to produce a merino wool 

performance sock line that is specifically 

built to address the needs of the hunting 

and fishing communities. 

Each style has a specific purpose that 

ultimately leads to a more enjoyable and 

successful day on the water or in the field. 

Perhaps best of all, these products are 

proudly made in the USA. 

Among the new sock lines, there is a 


lightweight Guide series featuring a No- 

Show ankle sock and a Mini Crew designed 

specifically for use with deck boots; the 

medium-weight Back Country series 

showcases a Boot Cut sock as well as an 

Over the Calf design for use with waders. 

The heavyweight Yeti line has both Boot 

Cut and Over the Calf socks in a heavier, 

warmer construction – the ultimate coldweather 

sock. 

BUILT FOR PERFORMANCE 

Each product in the new line has several 

common features, including merino wool 

construction for superior performance, 

a premium cushioned heel and toe with 

no-seam construction, vented panels for 

moisture management, arch compression 

and much more. 

And that’s not all. For spring 2024, 

Fish Monkey is returning to old school 

cool with some updated patterns for its 

Face Guards and select gloves. 

Among them is an Old School Camo 

pattern in three colours – beige, blue and 

grey – which will be in the Face Guards 

as well as the best-selling Half-Finger 

Guide Glove, the Stubby Guide Glove 

and the Pro 365 Guide Glove. And 

there’s a Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo 

pattern as well, also available in the Face 

Guard, Half-Finger Guide Glove and 

Stubby Guide Glove. 

With the current worldwide reach of 

the Fish Monkey and Hunt Monkey 

brands, the addition of performance socks 

as well as updated colour patterns for the 

core glove products is a natural market 

progression that will lead to increased 

retail sales and a happier customer at the 

end of the day. 

FISH MONKEY 

www.dealers.fishmonkeygloves.com

ULTRA HIGH PERFORMANCE CAMOUFLAGE 4 STRANDS BRAID. 

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FAST SINKING. 

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FEATURE 

St. Croix 

ST. CROIX ROD 

PREPARES TO 

REVEAL MOJO 

BASS TRIGON 

The next-generation Mojo Bass Series rods being 

introduced at ICAST 2023 represent a significant 

evolution in design, innovation and individuality for the 

benefit of bass anglers. 

Ergonomics is a science focused 

on the study of “human fit” 

based on anthropometric data – 

the various measurements of the 

human body. In the case of the new Mojo 

Bass TRIGON Series – set to be unveiled 

by St. Croix Rod later this month at 

ICAST 2023 – ergonomic design comes 

in the form of an all-new Dynamix reel 

seat and TRIGON handle, carefully 

conceived to improve angler control while 

decreasing fatigue and discomfort. 

“New Mojo Bass is all about building 

a comprehensive bass-rod series on 

a proven high-performance platform 

while pushing limits and setting new 

standards with science-based ergonomic 

advancements,” says St. Croix brand 

manager Ryan Teach. 

“Think of TRIGON as a bionic 

extension of the angler that makes all 

aspects of bass fishing easier to execute. 

Our unique TRIGON handle recognises 

that the human hand does not form a 

circle when closed. TRIGON features a 

curved, triangular profile with a rounded 

inner apex and a flattened top curve to 

better fit the human hand. The results 

are a more comfortable grip so anglers 

can fish longer while exercising increased 

control to maximise power and accuracy.” 

St. Croix engineers partnered with 

renowned industrial designer and 

anthropometrics expert Paul Richardson 

of Rise Creative, over the past two years 

to perfect the TRIGON handle design 

and accompanying Dynamix reel seat. 

“TRIGON’s inner apex – the 

triangular point on the lower part of the 

grip promotes greater hand-to-blank 

alignment for dramatically improved 

control,” Paul explains. 

“Meanwhile, the flattened top curve of 

TRIGON creates greater hand comfort, 

which ultimately reduces fatigue and 

supports longer, more comfortable 

fishing. And the design’s benefits are 

further increased in the way of control 

when the angler moves his or her 

thumb to the flattened top curve. The 

accompanying Dynamix reel seat has 

been specifically designed to fully support 

TRIGON’s benefits by meshing perfectly 

with its unique profiles.” 

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE 

Ryan says anglers can expect Mojo Bass 

TRIGON to include 34 distinct rods 

that perfectly support all bass-fishing 

presentations. 

“We’ve updated the assortment with 

more lengths, powers and actions to excel 

in all of today’s bass-fishing techniques 

– from BFS presentations to heavy 

8oz swimbaits. Blanks are either SCIII 

carbon or 100 per cent Linear S-Glass, 

depending on the model.” 

Retailers and media attending ICAST 

are invited to see Mojo Bass TRIGON 

at the St. Croix booth (#3024) and in 

the Freshwater Rod category of the 2023 

ICAST New Product Showcase. 

ST. CROIX 

www.stcroixrods.com 


Classifieds 

SPLIT RING 

PLIERS 

CLASSIFIEDS 

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TO BOOK THIS SPACE CONTACT: 

NORTH AMERICA 

BART MANGANIELLO 

T: +1 914 722 7601 

E: bartalm@optonline.net 

REST of WORLD 

GUIDO KNEGT 

T: +39 347 503 6436 

E: guido.knegt@dhpub.co.uk 

COMING UP… 

SEPTEMBER 2023 

ICAST & EFTTEX REVIEWS 

Ad Copy: July 21st, 2023 

Mailed: August 9th, 2023 

Spotlight: Apparel/Clothing 

Doing Business With: Japan 

OCTOBER 2023 

Ad Copy: August 18th, 2023 

Mailed: September 6th, 2023 

Special issue: Destination Fishing / 

Grand Slam 

Spotlight: Line 

Doing Business With: Rocky 

Mountains 

NOVEMBER 2023 

Ad Copy: September 15th 2023 

Mailed: October 4th 2023 

Special issue: Ice Fishing 

Spotlight: Fly Tying 

Doing Business With: Italy 

To submit news or editorial for 

any of these issues, contact: 

To advertise or discuss a marketing campaign in any of these editions, 

contact our business development team: 

EDITOR 

JOHN HUNTER 

T: + 44 (0)7990 542958 

E: john.hunter@dhpub.co.uk 

NORTH AMERICA 

BART MANGANIELLO 

T: +1 914 722 7601 

E: bartalm@optonline.net 

REST of WORLD 

GUIDO KNEGT 

T: +39 347 503 6436 

E: guido.knegt@dhpub.co.uk

FEATURE 

Last Cast 

Association (AFFTA) has hosted a 

business-to-business trade event for 

decades now and for decades that event 

has stayed the same. 

Recognising the need for changes to 

our industry trade event is step one in 

a multi-year process designed to give 

our industry a place to do business, have 

important conversations and renew the 

relationships that make this industry one 

of the most amazing to be a part of. 

AFFTA has listened to its members, 

those who want to come to an event to 

talk about the future of the industry as 

well as those who want to show the future 

of the products of that industry. 

“The small 

businesses of fly 

fishing from around 

the world need 

to come together 

as a community 

to discuss the big 

picture, more now 

than ever.” 

Last CasT... 

Lucas Bissett, executive director of the American Fly Fishing 

Trade Association explains why its new Confluence event 

this September will bring the whole fly fishing community 

together. 

The world of business is 

changing all around us. 

Between global pandemics, 

global economics, global supply 

chain issues and the global expansion of 

technology, those changes were inevitable. 

The small businesses of fly fishing from 

around the world need to come together 

as a community to discuss the big picture, 

more now than ever. 

The innovators and entrepreneurs who 

create, manufacture, sell fly fishing goods 

and tell others about them need to discuss 

creative solutions to problems we all face 

together. 

Because together is how we will evolve 

and adapt to keep expanding the footprint 

of an industry that defines “small 

business”. 

The American Fly Fishing Trade 

Everyone will have something they 

can learn, share and discuss at the first 

iteration of the AFFTA Confluence on 

September 26th to 28th, in Salt Lake 

City, Utah. 

The AFFTA Confluence is being built 

by the community it serves. Confluence 

is not what AFFTA thinks the fly fishing 

industry needs but what the fly fishing 

community has told us it wants. 

This year we will take what we learn 

and we will continue to evolve until we all 

settle into the best possible event with the 

most business-minded approaches. 

AFFTA trade events of the past weren’t 

built in one year and Confluence is no 

different. 

Changes will happen over time but 

changes will be made. 

Leaders don’t wait for the obvious 

answer, leaders go out and find the 

answers and make them obvious. 

AFFTA has asked for those answers, 

and we are leading the way to make the 

changes necessary to help everyone in this 

fly fishing community find them. 

affta 

www.affta.org/affta-confluence 


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Tackle Trade World - July 2023

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