Tackle Trade World - May 2024

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WILD AND DIVERSE 

Why Alaska is a great 

place for fishing and 

business 

PAGE 26 

SHOWING UP 

China Fish 2024 enjoyed 

a record year. Read our 

report... 

PAGE 30 

FISHING NEEDS HELP TO BEAT 

CLIMATE CHANGE RISK 

Angling and the entire 

outdoor recreational 

industry – a $1.1 trillion 

industry that is a pillar of the US 

economy, supporting five million 

jobs – is at risk from a string of 

factors caused by climate change. 

A US Senate Budget 

Committee hearing has 

highlighted the impacts of these 

changes and has begun looking 

at ways to ensure the sector is 

safeguarded from some of these 

issues. 

The hearing – Recreation At 

Risk: The Nature of Climate 

Costs – was told by Jessica Wahl 

Turner, president of Outdoor 

Recreation Roundtable, which 

includes the US trade body 

the American Sportfishing 

Association: “Climate change 

is increasingly impacting how 

people can recreate outside, 

and businesses of all types and 

all activities know the climate 

crisis needs to be addressed. 

We appreciate Congress 

acknowledging these challenges 

so we can work together on 

innovative solutions to ensure 

outdoor recreation can continue 

to support healthy people, 

places, and the planet.” 

Theresa McKenney, director 

of sustainability and government 

affairs at NEMO Equipment, 

said: “Along with the risk to 

human lives and livelihoods, 

climate change poses a real and 

imminent threat to NEMO’s 

business; without safe, accessible, 

and enjoyable places to recreate, 

there is no longer a need for our 

gear.” 

Among those giving evidence 

was Hilary Hutcheson, a fulltime 

fly fishing guide, outfitter 

and shop owner near Glacier 

National Park, Montana. 

She explained: “As the 

outfitter on record for the largest 

and longest-running commercial 

river company in the Northern 

Rockies region, with 185 

employees, including 100 river 

• Continued on page 8 

S E N T T O M O R E T H A N 1 8 , 5 0 0 T A C K L E I N D U S T R Y 

PROFESSIONALS IN OVER 120 COUNTRIES EVERY MONTH

MAY 

2024 

TackleTrade 


EDITORIAL 

Editor: 

John Hunter 

04 

+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. 

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. 

Sub Editor: David Haynes 

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 


THE SUMMIT OF 

OUR BUSINESS 

EXPECTATIONS 

It seems that angling summits are the latest 

‘thing’ doing the rounds in the tackle trade. 

We can’t move for them! 

While the American Sportfishing Association 

has been running its Sportfishing Summit in the 

USA for over two decades to great acclaim, the 

concept is a little newer for two other industry 

organisations. 

After a poorly backed Confluence trade 

show in Salt Lake City in 2023, the American 

Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) 

is dispensing with the show element for 

its 2024 Confluence, instead introducing a 

similar summit concept, offering networking 

opportunities and business seminars and 

discussions. 

And now it seems the European Fishing 

Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA) will be 

exploring the idea too, perhaps towards the 

end of this year, before adding into its own 

EFTTEX 2025 trade show offering the 

following year. 

So will these work? Well, the ASA has 

actually been holding meetings for its leadership 

and members since 1933, although it was back 

in 2002 that the gathering was revamped and 

rebranded as the Sportfishing Summit. 

The concept was simple – throw open your 

doors to the wider sportfishing trade community, 

encourage more meaningful conversations at all 

levels about the future of our sport and how we 

can all derive greater benefits from our efforts. 

At the same time, throw in a good few social 

and educational events and you can attract a 

veritable who’s who of the industry. 

The Confluence NOLA 2024 (it’s being held John Hunter 

in New Orleans, Louisiana) will be a place for Editor 

3,511 

6,466 

the fly fishing industry to come together, have 

those important conversations as a whole and 

individually, while strengthening the industry 

and businesses, with educational talks and a 

sounding board for AFFTA to hear thoughts 

from its members. 

Naturally, both of these summits usually also 

take place in cool places where the fishing is 

good and visitors can appreciate the natural 

environment which the organisations are 

constantly championing – it’s a smart way of 

encouraging attendance. 

Quite what the plans are for EFTTA’s 

Angling Summit later this year, few details have 

yet been released. 

But I suspect it will be in a popular central 

European location, making it easy to get to, 

with a mix of round-table discussions, business 

advice and talks and perhaps even a few industry 

awards thrown in. 

It will be interesting to see if the European 

tackle trade embraces such a concept and is 

willing to get into its cars or jump on trains/ 

planes to attend. 

While EFTTA and the ASA plan on backing 

or running trade shows in addition, AFFTA’s 

Confluence follows the demise of the IFTD 

show. 

However, I wouldn’t mind betting it won’t 

be long before brand representatives there are 

encouraging attendees to spend a little time 

discussing or looking at their new products or 

launches. 

Maybe things will go full circle...

Register Today! 

Online registration closes June 10th. 

Avoid the registration lines onsite! 

July 16-19 

Orlando, FL 

POWERED BY 

Orange County Convention Center 

ICASTfishing.org

MAY 

2024 

16 

18 

22 

Contents 

26 

08 NEWS 

Zebco Europe finally closes the doors to its 

German facility, details are revealed about 

the fly fishing Confluence event in the USA 

this autumn while the Australian tackle 

trade show is sold out on floor space. 

16 LUNCH & LEARN AT ICAST 

A surprising series of seminars designed 

to help tackle businesses grow and meet 

the latest challenges has always been a 

popular part of the ICAST show. We find 

out why. 

18 SPOTLIGHT ON… EYEWEAR 

Looking to stock the latest and best 

eyewear out there? TTW guides you 

through the lens and frame options and 

explains why polarised glasses are the best 

option, bar none, for anglers. 

20 SHOP WINDOW 

We run the rule over some of the latest 

sunglasses offerings that retailers could be 

seeking to stock. 

06 www.tackletradeworld.com 

30 

22 TECHNOLOGY AT THE CORE OF LURES 

The way soft plastic lures are produced 

changed forever when lure manufacturer 

LIVETARGET introduced its Injected Core 

Technology. 

24 IN LINE FOR MORE MONO 

INNOVATION 

Line manufacturer FirstDart continues 

to make strides in its innovation plan, 

introducing an exceptional mono running 

line – G2R. 

26 DOING BUSINESS WITH… ALASKA 

The least-populated US state actually has 

some of the finest fishing on offer for both 

residents and visitors alike, so it may be a 

great fit for your brand. 

36 

30 ALL ROADS LEAD TO CHINA 

Why the tackle trade beat to a path to 

China Fish 2024, making it a recordbreaking 

show for exhibitors from across 

the globe. 

36 TOBIZO RODS WIN RACE FOR TOP 

SPOT 

Hard-fighting fish, big lures and tough 

conditions call for high-performance rods, 

such as ZENAQ’s Tobizo Type R Racing 

concept. 

38 MAKING CONTACT 

More tackle and gear recently released into 

the market that you might wish to consider 

adding to your inventory for the coming 

season. 

42 UNDER THE INFLUENCE 

Engaging with influencers can be a 

powerful way to grow your brand, as it 

allows you to tap into their established 

audience and credibility. Here’s how to go 

about it…

FISHING NEEDS HELP TO BEAT 

CLIMATE CHANGE RISK 

• Continued from page 3 

guides, I feel responsible for 

many livelihoods beyond my 

own. 

“My fellow guides are 

responsible for offering an 

excellent experience to many 

of the 12.5 million people 

who visit our state each year, 

spending $5.82 billion. 

“Water-based activities 

represent the largest guided trip 

sectors, and guided fishing trips 

bring in about $80 million. We 

love our jobs. 

“Unfortunately, our 

increasingly unstable river 

office environment, marked by 

drastic temperature fluctuations, 

wildfires, floods, droughts, 

wildlife stress, and other 

disruptions, warrants extra 

attention to guides’ physical 

and mental health, something 

my company recognises as an 

essential corporate expense. 

“There’s even a non-profit 

crisis hotline dedicated to 

professional outdoor guides 

in Montana and Idaho, with 

an increasing number of 

calls coming in because of 

environmental stressors. 

“The cost of doing business 

should keep me on my toes, but 

it’s my job to think about these 

numbers, what’s driving them 

and how we can work with you 

to keep it in balance. 

“Each year, more than three 

million people visit Glacier 

National Park to catch a glimpse 

of its diminishing glaciers and 

to enjoy the renowned landscape 

where those features are carved. 

“Anglers are also increasingly 

aware of how human-caused 

climate change affects this 

delicate balance. Clients who 

spend money to come to 

Montana to fish with us are 

asking me and my fellow guides 

some tough, sophisticated 

questions about the climate. 

They are asking about our new 

normals, like unseasonable rainon-snow 

events that can scour 

trout spawning beds. They ask 

about why we run out of water 

so early in the season. They ask 

why they are seeing so many 

weakened, hybrid trout. Today, 

guides explain why we try to 

keep trout in the water instead 

of lifting them into the boat for 

a photo. 

“It’s becoming increasingly 

challenging to budget for 

the season. Will we have 

dangerously high water or 

historically low water? Should 

we not book guests in August, 

when thick smoke from wildfires 

might keep us off the river 

again? How many client trip 

deposits will we have to refund 

because of cancelled vacations? 

How many guides should we 

hire, given all this uncertainty? 

A recent report underscores the 

economic jeopardy posed by 

climate change, predicting the 

potential loss of 8,800 outdoor 

recreation jobs and a staggering 

$263 million in labour earnings 

annually by mid-century in 

Montana alone. 

“Professional anglers have 

a unique perspective on the 

far-reaching impacts of climate 

change. In all pockets of 

the country, anglers, angling 

businesses and the broader 

outdoor economy are painfully 

impacted by the deterioration 

of our fisheries. Through 

active participation in national 

industry associations, nonprofits, 

and partnerships with 

sustainability-focused brands, 

we echo and amplify the urgent 

pleas of our communities to our 

congressional leadership. 

“The future of our 

environment, economy, and 

community is a package deal. 

And it is directly connected 

to our collective efforts to 

safeguard our planet for 

generations to come.” 

recreationroundtable.org 

EFTTA’S CEO STEPS DOWN 

The European Fishing Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA)’s CEO, 

Olivier Portrat, has left his position at the helm of the trade body to 

pursue a new career opportunity. 

Olivier’s departure marks the end of a distinguished term during 

which EFTTA navigated through unprecedented challenges, including 

the transition of the company’s headquarters from the UK to Brussels 

amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic. 

Olivier joined EFTTA at a critical juncture and immediately set 

about transforming the association, reinforcing its commitment to its 

members and the broader fishing community. 

His efforts to re-establish EFTTA’s base in Brussels have laid a 

strong foundation for the association’s future, enhancing its ability to 

advocate effectively for sustainable angling practices and the interests of 

the European trade. 

During his five-year role Olivier and the EFTTA board lobbied 

continuously and successfully defended recreational angling and the 

tackle trade. 

As Olivier embarks on a new chapter in his career, the EFTTA 

board, together with its members, extended its heartfelt thanks and best 

wishes for his future endeavours. 

EFTTA said it remains dedicated to supporting the sustainable 

development of the recreational angling industry, advocating for the 

interests of the fishing tackle trade, and promoting angling as a key 

contributor to environmental conservation and the European economy. 

Australian trade show 

is a sell-out 

The organisers of this year’s 

Australian Fishing Trade 

Association (AFTA) Show 

says floorspace at this 

August’s event is now full. 

With exhibitors ranging 

from Pure Fishing, Daiwa, 

Shimano and Rapala 

alongside names like J M 

Gillies, Wilson, Halco, 

Frogleys and many more, 

it’s set to be a great way for 

dealers to see all the latest 

gear. 

AFTA is even offering 

every independent member 

retail store a $500 voucher 

to spend at the show. 

With registration open 

by the time you read this, 

it’s the perfect time to 

book your flights and 

accommodation for the 

event at the Gold Coast 

Convention and Exhibition 

Centre from August 15th 

to 17th. 

The first two days are 

trade-only, with a public day 

on August 17th. 

www.afta.net.au/tackle-show 

08 www.tackletradeworld.com

AFFTA reimagines Confluence event 

The American Fly Fishing 

Trade Association (AFFTA) has 

released details of its Confluence 

NOLA 2024 event, a change in 

focus from a trade show to one 

focused on networking, education 

and discussion. 

AFFTA says its aim is to 

deliver a summit constructed to 

help improve the businesses of 

its members. It is scheduled to 

take place at the historic Hotel 

Monteleone in New Orleans, 

Louisiana, USA, on October 

22nd and 23rd. 

In response to feedback 

following last year’s venture 

in Salt Lake City, AFFTA 

has transformed Confluence 

away from a trade show and 

into an industry summit 

aimed at fostering networking 

opportunities, facilitating 

educational presentations, and 

encouraging open dialogue 

among industry professionals. 

Confluence NOLA 2024 

will feature a 

diverse array of 

presentations 

and round table 

discussions 

covering a wide 

range of topics 

pertinent to the fly 

fishing industry. 

Attendees can 

expect to gain 

insights from 

industry leaders, 

participate in 

round table 

discussions, and 

exchange ideas 

with fellow 

business owners 

and manufacturers. 

AFF TA’s 

executive director, Lucas Bissett, 

explained: “Same name, different 

Confluence. In listening to 

the feedback of our members, 

we reimagined Confluence to 

be a summit that focuses on 

Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans 

networking, education and 

discussion for AFFTA members. 

“Confluence, coupled with the 

numerous virtual events we have 

planned for the year, will round 

out AFFTA’s goal of providing 

a real return on our members’ 

investments.” 

Registration for Confluence 

NOLA 2024 is now open for 

AFFTA members at affta.org/ 

events 

Zebco closes its HQ doors in Europe 

After 50 years in Tostedt, 

Germany, Zebco Europe’s 

headquarters is set to close at 

the end of April, bringing an 

era to an end. 

The brand itself was born 

in 1860 and has been one 

of the best-known names in 

angling over the past 160- 

plus years. 

When the news broke 

last year, Paul Reeves, the 

European president of parent 

company Rather Outdoors, 

said in a letter to retailers: 

“The operation of several 

locations in several countries 

does not make economic 

sense due to the significantly 

higher costs.” 

Zebco Brands – which 

includes Zebco Europe and 

Preston Innovations – was 

only acquired by Rather 

Outdoors some three years 

ago, in January 2021. 

The last orders of products 

bearing the 

Zebco, Rhino, 

Quantum, 

Radical and 

Black Cat 

names were 

shipped from 

Tostedt at 

the end of 

February. Since 

then, deliveries 

have been made 

from Rather 

Outdoors’ 

European 

distribution 

centre, based in 

Belgium. 

Rather 

Outdoors CEO 

Ken Eubanks 

said the 

move would 

better serve its European 

customers, since the Belgian 

warehouse operated in a more 

streamlined and efficient way. 

Zebco Europe Tostedt 

Headquartered in South 

Carolina, USA, Rather 

Outdoors was purchased by 

merchant bank BDT Capital 

in June 2019 and is also home 

to brands including Fox 

International, Matrix, Strike 

King, Lew’s and Salmo. 


09

FAIRPOINT OUTDOORS 

STRENGTHENS IN THE UK 

Fairpoint Outdoors, the owner 

of Scandinavian tackle brands 

Westin and Kinetic, has made 

another strong move to bolster 

growth in the UK with the 

signing of southern sales manager 

Geoff Brooks. 

Geoff has been involved in the 

tackle industry for over 20 years, 

having extensive experience in 

both retail and trade sales roles, 

and joins the existing sales team 

of Richard Taylor in England, 

Scotland and Wales and Gareth 

Whittington in Ireland. 

This move supports Fairpoint’s 

ongoing aggressive expansion 

strategy, with recruitment of key 

employees being at the heart of 

their investment plan. 

Richard Taylor said: “Geoff 

is a brilliant addition to the 

company and his experience and 

connections should allow him to 

hit the ground running, which is 

exactly what we are looking for. 

“We have seen superb growth 

in the UK since launching our 

new bespoke UK business system 

in 2022/23 and 

Geoff is a key part 

of our projected 

growth plans.” 

In addition to 

the well-known 

Westin brand, 

Geoff is looking 

forward to 

develop business 

of the sister brand 

– Kinetic – in the 

coming months. 

He explained: 

“I’m incredibly 

excited to become 

part of such a 

forward-thinking 

company, and can see huge 

potential for Kinetic, especially in 

coastal stores in my territory. It is 

a no-nonsense brand, with superb 

margin for the retailer but backed 

by Scandinavian quality.” 

Thomas Petersen, Fairpoint 

CSO, added: “We identified the 

UK and Ireland as a key area for 

our growth strategy going forward 

but it’s fair to say Brexit made for 

(L to R): Geoff Brooks, Thomas Petersen Eldor and Richard Taylor. 

tricky times the last few years. 

“However, we have invested 

heavily in bespoke systems 

to get over these hurdles and 

our most recent acquisition in 

Geoff Brooks is testament to 

the progress we have made. 

“Coupled with our expansion 

of new product categories like 

reels, braid and a new terminal 

tackle range, the company is 

going from strength to strength 

and these are really exciting 

times.” 

While many brands seem 

nervous in the current financial 

climate, Fairpoint Outdoors says 

it is striding forward confidently 

and creating impressive results 

despite the uncertain times. 

www.fairpoint.dk/en 

Quest fulfilled for easy-to-use bait boat 

Sonar maker Deeper has launched what it 

claims to be the market’s easiest-to-use bait 

boat, the Deeper Quest. 

Coming with everything needed for carp 

fishing, the boat works right out of the 

box and has taken two years to design and 

develop, working closely with carp anglers to 

get everything right. 

Donatas Malinauskas, co-founder of 

Lithuanian-based Deeper, explained: “We 

wanted to make a product that would be as 

easy to use as taking it out of the box and 

turning it on. No assembling, no tightening 

screws, no attaching additional wires to 

batteries – pressing the power button to turn 

it on is all you need to do before you can 

enjoy your fishing experience. 

“Having never developed similar products 

before allowed us to take the bottom-up 

approach: we made the actual needs for the 

carp-fishing community the core of our 

process.” 


Deeper Quest product manager Vytautas 

Zelvys added: “Ease of use was our priority. 

Even individuals without any technical 

knowledge were supposed to be able to use 

it effortlessly and utilise all its features. That 

was why we custom-designed an externalwires-free 

battery system. Our bait boat also 

has a unique rig hopper that can use PVA 

bags or even carry liquids.” 

Its autonomous area scanning allows carp 

anglers to gather data without constant 

supervision. They can efficiently set up their 

equipment and save time, all while gaining 

insights into underwater structures. 

Deeper Quest hardware is seamlessly 

integrated with the firm’s Fish Deeper app, 

enhancing functionality, enabling precise 

navigation, area scans, route missions, and 

making a return to favoured spots effortless. 

The unlimited number of waypoints allows 

fishing enthusiasts to explore the most 

diverse lakes with the same ease. 

The bait boat also comes with flagship 

Deeper CHIRP technology and a housebuilt 

navigation system, providing the most 

accurate sonar data within 1m accuracy. 

Powered by rechargeable Li-ion batteries, 

it offers a runtime of up to seven hours or 

approximately a 20km range. Recharging is 

convenient via the bait boat’s USB-C power 

delivery system. 

It also comes with a backpack and 

essential maintenance tools. 

www.deepersonar.com

Scott Fly Rod Company 

now in Session with rods 

The Scott Fly Rod Company 

has introduced its Session 

series of high-performance, 

hand-crafted fly rods, blending 

acclaimed design approaches 

with latest materials and 

technologies. 

Session rods bring together 

high line speed, exceptional 

loop control, and a light and 

lively feel in hand. They load 

easily and are said to respond to 

subtle inputs from the angler. 

Scott’s president, Jim 

Bartschi, said: “Anyone who has 

fished Scott freshwater rods in 

the recent past will immediately 

recognise our signature ‘fast 

with feel’ action in Session rods. 

“They share some of the 

design approaches and material 

DNA with some of our most 

legendary rods. Incorporating 

some of our newest technologies 

gives these rods their own 

unique feel and attributes.” 

Session rods feature Scott’s 

Carbon Link epoxy resin 

system, multi-modulus lay ups, 

ARC2 reinforcement, ReAct 

and Natural Finish blanks. 

All the rods are handcrafted 

in Montrose, Colorado, 

USA, using the finest 

components including milled 

aluminium reel seats with type 

two anodised and wood inserts, 

silicon nitride stripping guides 

and super grade cork handles. 

The Scott Session rods are 

available from 8ft to 10ft and 

in four-piece configuration for 

3-wt to 8-wt lines. 

www.scottflyrod.com 

2023-24 

Over 1,400 New 

Line Items in our 

2023-2024 Catalog 

14,600+ Products 

Available for your 

Fly Tying Shops Walls! 

Microflex Soft 

Hackle Chenille 

Available in 5 sizes and 

31 Great Colors! 

LEADERSHIP CHANGES 

FOR MAJOR RETAILER 

Sportsman’s Warehouse in the USA has named Krischelle 

Tennessen as chief human resources officer and Michael Simpson 

as chief information officer. 

President and CEO Paul Stone explained: “These key strategic 

hires are significant additions to the organisation as we continue to 

build out the team with exceptional talent. 

“Both Krischelle and Mike complement the existing skills and 

experience of our leadership team and I look forward to working 

with them directly, as we pursue excellence throughout the 

organisation.” 

Krischelle will oversee company culture, HR strategy and 

processes, and talent development and brings nearly 30 years of 

human resources experience to the business. 

While Michael will be responsible for all areas of the 

organisation’s technology, offering over 20 years of leadership 

experience in tech and software development, including 15 years of 

experience in retail.

NEWS IN BRIEF 

Vista rejects buy bid 

Vista Outdoor, which owns a string of 

brands including Simms, has rejected 

an unsolicited indication of interest 

from MNC Capital for its Sporting 

Products business. 

Instead, its board continues to 

recommend the shooting and hunting 

division’s acquisition by Czechoslovak 

Group (CSG) later this year. 

Meanwhile, its Outdoor Products 

business Revelyst will continue as a 

standalone public company. 

Gill’s Pioneer move 

Gill North America has announced 

a partnership with Pioneer Outdoor 

Group for sales and marketing in 

the western regions of the USA. As a 

premier sailing clothing line in the 

territory, it is now branching into 

other aquatic activities such as fishing, 

paddle, and water adventure. 

Based in Colorado, Pioneer 

Outdoor Group will be representing 

Gill products in Alaska, California, 

Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Kansas, 

Colorado, Utah, Oregon, Washington, 

Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South 

Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming 

and Hawaii. 

Marketing for 

YANMAR 

YANMAR Marine International (YMI) 

has employed the services of PR 

and marketing agency, McKenna 

Townsend to further raise its profile 

across global marine media and drive 

brand awareness. 

Headquartered in The Netherlands, 

YMI continues to expand its range of 

products, services, and expertise to 

deliver total solutions as an engine 

and equipment manufacturer to 

its network of over 2,000 dealers 

worldwide in over 130 countries. 

Hooked on finish 

Gamakatsu has introduced a 

proprietary new finish for its most 

popular hook styles. 

Its latest innovation, the Nano 

Alpha finish, is said to represent a 

paradigm shift in hook performance, 

offering anglers advantages including 

slicker performance and enhanced 

corrosion resistance, all at the same 

affordable price as its standard hooks. 

ADDITIONAL LINE-UP 

FOR US MARKET 

Seaguar, the brand that invented 

fluorocarbon fishing line in Japan in 1971, 

is releasing three products previously only 

available in its domestic market to North 

American anglers. 

R18 Fluorocarbon mainline, PEX8 Lure 

Edition Braid and Grand Max Fluorocarbon 

Leader are now available to retailers and 

customers across the USA. 

The move, at least in part, follows 

requests from enthusiast anglers. 

Seaguar general manager Gerry Benedicto 

explained: “Many of these products are 

known to North American anglers who 

follow the Japanese bass scene. 

“These are existing products that have 

been designed to get the best performance 

out of lures in highly pressured fisheries 

in Japan. Now, anglers here can fish these 

unique JDM lines and experience them first 

hand.” 

Two-time Bassmaster Elite Series Angler 

of the Year Brandon Palaniuk added: “The 

biggest thing about the products that 

originate in Japan is the attention to detail 

and how they make small changes to get big 

results.” 

R18 fluorocarbon is designed for excellent 

casting and performance and uses Seaguar’s 

exclusive double-structure process with two 

custom 100 per cent fluorocarbon resins 

to create a line with exceptional knot and 

tensile strength. 

PEX8 Lure Edition micro braid is a highperformance 

eight-strand braided line with 

exceptionally thin diameters, up to 22 per 

cent thinner than competitors. 

Its colouring is high visibility Passion 

Pink with contrasting lime green segments 

every metre, allowing anglers to gauge lure 

depths and detect bites by watching the line. 

Grand Max is a specially formulated 

leader material with low stretch and 

excellent strength and sensitivity. Created 

in Japan in 1999, it also boasts Seaguar’s 

exclusive double-structure process, which 

creates small diameters and exceptional knot 

and tensile strength. Spooled on to pocketthin 

spools, it fits anywhere and multiple 

spools can be snapped together for added 

convenience. 

www.seaguar.com 


RepYourWater joins North Point Brands 

Outdoor company North Point 

Brands, owner of Cheeky 

Fishing and Wingo Outdoors, 

has added conservation-based 

apparel brands RepYourWater 

and RepYourWild to its 

growing family. 

The move means the 

husband-and-wife cofounders 

of Colorado-based 

RepYourWater, Garrison and 

Corinne Doctor, will bring their 

talents to all sectors of North 

Point Brands. 

Since RepYourWater’s 

launch in 2011, the designdriven 

apparel and accessory 

company has focused its efforts 

on making outstanding apparel 

with authentic design and 

artwork, created by Garrison, 

while building a sustainable and 

cause-driven company. 

To date, RepYourWater and 

RepYourWild have donated 

more than $400,000 to 

conservation. 

Corinne said: “We’re thrilled 

to join North Point Brands. We 

have worked together through 

the years in different capacities 

and, now that we have joined 

forces, we will make a bigger 

difference as brands committed 

The Recreational Boating & 

Fishing Foundation (RBFF) 

has appointed Billy Pope to 

its board of directors, bringing 

a wealth of marketing and 

communications experience. 

His background includes 

overseeing creative services 

and marketing efforts, 

promoting outdoor recreation 

opportunities and producing 

Alabama’s Department of 

Conservation and Natural 

Resources award-winning 

Outdoor Alabama magazine, 

website, and television show. 

BFF president and 

CEO Dave Chanda said: 

“With more than 30 

years of marketing and 

communications expertise, 

to conservation, sustainability 

and our shared passions of 

outdoor pursuits.” 

Corinne will take her years of 

experience with sustainability, 

operations and product into her 

new role 

as director 

of people, 

process and 

planet for 

North Point 

Brands, 

while 

Garrison will assume the role 

of creative director, applying his 

skills as a practising artist and 

designer. 

Garrison added: “Bringing 

together these four brands that 

are making great products for 

the right reasons is going to 

allow us as a team to elevate 

each brand individually. We’ve 

got big goals ahead.” 

North Point Brands will 

also retain all the employees 

at RepYourWater and 

RepYourWild. 

North Point Brands’ CEO, 

Ted Upton, noted: “We 

could not be more pleased 

to welcome not only the 

brands of RepYourWater and 

POPE CLIMBS ABOARD 

FISHING AND BOATING GROUP 

Billy Pope 

his insights will help drive 

innovative strategies to 

enhance participation in 

fishing, boating, and their 

connection with outdoor 

recreation and conservation. 

His addition to the board will 

certainly elevate our national 

and local communications 

efforts related to 

conservation.” 

RepYourWild but also the 

incredibly skilled Corinne, 

Garrison, and all of their team. 

“Our brands have similar 

values of making top tier 

product with forward thinking 

conservation and sustainability 

ethics. We’re stronger together.” 

The combined business will 

co-locate in its existing office 

spaces in Massachusetts and 

Colorado respectively. Normal 

business operations will 

continue uninterrupted. 

northpointbrands.com

RAFAEL PROVIDES FOUNDATION 

FOR ROD BUILDING GROUP 

Foundation Outdoor Group 

has continued its focus on 

European expansion with the 

appointment of Rafael Llaneras 

to lead its southern Europe 

sales and distribution initiatives. 

The world’s largest supplier 

of rod building components, 

supplies, equipment and 

instruction said “Rafa” would 

concentrate on growing sales 

and distribution in the region, 

including Italy, Portugal and his 

home country of Spain. 

Gary Benney, vice-president 

of operations for Foundation’s 

European efforts, said: “Rafa 

is a tremendous addition to 

the Foundation family. He’s an 

industry veteran, already well 

versed in our product line. He is 

also an avid angler, who knows 

the species and waters across 

the continent.” 

Rafael resides on the Balearic 

island of Majorca, Spain with 

his wife and two children. 

Having fished at a 

professional level for many 

years with an emphasis on big 

game species, he has won many 

tournaments, including the 

coveted Spanish Tuna Trolling 

Championship, and has helped 

pioneer slow pitch fishing in 

Spain. 

As a 10-year American 

Tackle ambassador, Rafa 

brings a wealth of knowledge 

and experience to Foundation 

Outdoor Group. 

Brook Oliva, Foundation’s 

president and COO, added: 

“Growing our presence in 

southern Europe is a key 

component to our larger 

expansion strategy. We’re 

excited to have someone of 

Rafa’s calibre join our team. 

Under Gary’s leadership, I 

am sure that Rafa will make 

an immediate impact for 

Foundation.” 

With the recent addition of 

its European headquarters in 

Halmstad, Sweden, Foundation 

Outdoor Group is well 

positioned to grow its presence 

across Europe and to meet 

customer demand for fishing 

Rafael Llaneras 

rod components and tackle 

goods. 

The group’s brands include 

Mud Hole Custom Tackle, 

American Tackle, MHX, 

Custom Rod Builder (CRB), 

ProProducts, ThreadMaster and 

FishHawk. 

gbenney@fogeurope.com 

Dates set for 2025 Fly Fishing shows 

After a record-breaking 2024 season, the 

Fly Fishing Show will visit seven sites in 

the USA over nine weeks during 2025. 

The events’ president and CEO, Ben 

Furimsky, explained: “By spreading the 

seven shows over nine weeks, we hope 

to ease the travel burden for exhibitors 

from Europe, Asia, and Latin American 

countries who need to deal with long 

flights, along with North American 

companies that are showing new 

products at multiple shows.” 

The 2025 dates and locations are 

Marlborough, Massachusetts from 

January 17th to 18th; Edison, New 

Jersey from January 24th to 26th, Atlanta 

RIDGEMONKEY ADDS BONES TO OPERATION 


Georgia from January 31st to February 

2nd; Bellevue, Washington from 

February 15th to 16th, Denver, Colorado 

from February 21st to 23rd, Pleasanton, 

California from February 28th to March 

2nd and Lancaster, Pennsylvania from 

March 15th to 16th. 

For information on 2025 booth 

space, multiple show discounts, deposit 

deadlines and opportunities for show 

feature demonstrations and destination 

theatre presentations, contact the Fly 

Fishing Show at +1 814 443 3638 or visit 

the website. 

www.flyfishingshow.com/exhibitor-info 

UK-based specialist tackle 

brand RidgeMonkey has 

added some strong experience 

to its sales line-up with the 

appointment of Jonathan 

Bones to its ranks. 

Jonathan, who has more 

than 22 years’ experience in 

the angling trade, including 

the last five running and 

directing bait and tackle firm 

Solar Tackle, will be leading 

the sales and accounts in the 

south of England, looking 

after some of RidgeMonkey’s 

biggest customers. 

Jonathan said: “I’m thrilled 

at the new challenge ahead 

and I’m eager to get stuck 

into the role full time. 

RidgeMonkey’s a brand 

that’s enjoyed substantial 

growth, led, in my opinion, 

by innovative product design, 

strong branding, and an 

experienced and competent 

team; three key elements 

that attracted me to the 

company to take up this new 

opportunity.”

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I

FEATURE 

ICAST 

Surprising seminar series 

delivers eye-opening lessons 

ICAST Lunch & Learn has become a can’t-miss resource for staying on top of changing trends 

in the business of recreational fishing. 

The countdown to sportfishing’s 

largest trade show is well under 

way. Registration is open, 

booths are being designed and 

reservations are already being made for 

ICAST 2024, presented by the American 

Sportfishing Association. 

And, while a village of fishing tackle 

filled with thousands of new products 

remains the irresistible lure to the annual, 

summer event, veteran retailers know 

there’s more to ICAST than placing orders 

and perusing products. 

Much to learn 

Launched in 2021, Lunch & Learn brings 

thousands of business leaders, innovators, 

and entrepreneurs together each day to learn 

about the state of the industry and emerging 

technologies, among other things. 

“I see people who attend Lunch & Learn 

for the first time and their eyes open like, 

‘Wow, there’s a lot going on out there’,” 

said American conservation and outdoor 

recreational industry analyst Rob Southwick. 

“Business senses, the market and the 

customer are constantly changing. Lunch & 

Learn is a way to keep up on those changes.” 

Southwick – the go-to source for some of 

the sportfishing industry’s most insightful 

analytics – has been a presenter at Lunch & 

Learn since the beginning. 

Last year, he was joined on stage by 

Stephanie Vatalaro, senior vice-president 

of communications for the Recreational 

Boating & Fishing Foundation. 

Stephanie is tasked with understanding 

the ever-shifting trends of angler and boater 

recruitment, retention and reactivation, 

known as “R3”, to help the industry grow. 

She also has access to the most up-to-date 

data on consumer trends in the sportfishing 

world, and she regularly doles out on stage 

at Lunch & Learn. “Business owners should 

be the visionaries,” said Vatalaro. “If they 

understand what’s going on out there, they 

can grow their bottom line and profit.” 

Southwick and Vatalaro say audience 

feedback is effervescent at ICAST. Despite 

the fast-paced atmosphere, attendees 

regularly make time to ask more questions, 

network and connect. It’s commonplace to 

hear more from Lunch & Learn attendees 

after the weeklong event. 

“Lunch & Learn sessions allow us an 

opportunity to provide valuable information 

to the industry,” added Vatalaro. “The 

response to our sessions has been very 

positive. Attendees have commended our 

efforts, engaged with our collateral and 

followed up with us in meaningful ways 

after the show.” 

Expert knowledge 

For show officials, that message resonates 

loud and clear. ICAST Lunch & Learn 

seminars are making a much-anticipated 

return in 2024 with a full slate of experts 

taking the stage. 

Southwick and Vatalaro will be there. 

So too will an audience of attendees 

who make time to take notes about fresh 

new ideas that are worth their weight in 

gold once they return to the day-to-day 

routine of running their business. 

“Business seminars like these might 

cost people thousands of dollars,” said 

ASA’s trade show & membership vice 

president Blake Swango. “The take home 

value of Lunch & Learn is tremendous. 

It’s one of the events I most recommend 

making time for at the show.” 

Set for July 16th to 19th, online 

registration for ICAST is already open. 

Qualified attendees like tackle dealers 

and other industry retailers can register 

to join the collective global sportfishing 

community there for free. To secure a 

spot in Orlando, Florida this year, visit 

the ICAST website. 

ICAST 

www. ICASTFishing.org 


SPOTLIGHT ON... 

EYEWEAR 

SPOTLIGHT ON 

EYEWEAR 

While not seen as ’mainstream tackle’, a good pair of 

polarised sunglasses is every bit as essential as a rod, reel, 

line and bait for many anglers. 

When it comes to fishing 

equipment, one of the 

most important items 

is undoubtedly a pair 

of sunglasses with polarised lenses. 

Being able to spot fish – or fishholding 

locations – is a staple of many 

anglers’ armoury, while glasses are also 

an effective way to protect your eyes 

from flying hooks, not to mention 

harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. 

Polarised glasses can help reduce 

the glare from the surface of the water, 

enabling you to more clearly see what’s 

going on underneath, enhancing your 

vision and making it easier to locate 

your quarry while also reducing eye 

strain. 

Just as importantly, being able to pick 

out objects underwater might be crucial 

to avoid obstacles while wading. 

Thankfully, there are polarised 

sunglasses to suit every budget and 

requirement, from enhancing low-light 

situations to protecting your eyes from 

bright sun gleaming off the water. 

But making the right choice can be 

tricky so it’s advisable to have a good 

selection of styles and lens colours as 

well as price tags and brands, as some 

anglers can be quite picky. 

COLOUR COUNTS 

A rule of thumb for picking sunglasses 

with maximum polarisation is 

the darker the lens tint, the more 

polarisation it has. 

But here it gets tricky as there is 

a wide range of lens colours, each 

designed to do a different job. 

Enhancing your visual contrast 

will help you to see the shape, colour 

and even the shadow of the fish more 

clearly because it will stand out from its 

surroundings. 

Grey, amber, yellow and rose are the 

most common lens colours offered in 

polarised sunglasses for fishing but each 

of these offers certain 

benefits. 

Grey is probably one of the most 

common colours and works best for 

preserving natural colour relationships 

and contrast levels and decreasing 

brightness; grey lenses are the best 

choice for everyday activities and 

for general all-around use although 

be aware that they provide minimal 

contrast enhancement. 

Amber/copper – another popular lens 

colour for anglers – is perhaps the best 

compromise between the natural colour 

preservation of grey and the contrast 

enhancement of yellow; they preserve 

natural colour relationships but offer 

considerable contrast enhancement. 

Yellow lenses are excellent at 

gathering light, delivering the highest 

degree of contrast enhancement, 



EYEWEAR 

making them well-suited for use in low 

light and foggy conditions, as well as 

being a good choice for sight fishing. 

Vermilion/rose lenses are the colour of 

choice if you are fishing in the clear and 

relatively uniform waters of the saltwater 

flats or in deep slow spring creeks, 

especially in low-light conditions. 

Blue lenses are often the prefered 

choice choice for those heading offshore, 

while for freshwater and inshore, green 

is a great option. A pure green tint is 

considered by many to be the ultimate 

colour for sight fishing, since it offers 

both high contrast and high polarisation. 

PRICE POINT 

As we mentioned earlier, you’ll find 

polarised sunglasses across a wide 

range of price points, and, as a rough 

generalisation, the cheaper they are, the 

lower the quality and performance they 

offer. 

For anglers where brand loyalty is key, 

then many famous tackle names offer 

their ‘own’ glasses, often at a reasonable 

price. 

That said, some of the better-known 

sunglasses specialists such as Costa, 

Oakley, Smith and so on have spent 

years perfecting their offerings and often 

use their own proprietary technology in 

their lenses and/or frames. 

One interesting entry into the market 

a few years back was Bajío, which has 

been gathering market share quite 

quickly thanks to founder Al Perkinson’s 

understanding of the sector. 

Budget makes do tend to sacrifice 

some of the functionality you might 

reasonably expect from sunglasses. 

You not only need them to help you 

see through the glare but you’ll want 

them to protect your eyes from harmful 

UVA and UVB rays while you are 

spending hours in pursuit of that elusive 

fish. 

FORM AND FUNCTION 

Some, like Wiley X, have used their 

experience of the military market to 

deliver eyewear that not only performs 

well but also offers amazing protection 

from flying hooks and lures and even 

from shotgun pellets! 

For the fashion-conscious fisherman 

or woman there is a huge range of 

styles, frames and colours to choose 

from which, added to the lens colour, 

make for a bewildering array of options. 

Some will choose their glasses based 

on fit and lightness of weight as well as 

lens colour and polarisation strength. 

Wrap-around styles are loved by 

many anglers as they block light 

from entering their peripheral vision 

and offer additional protection from 

flying hooks – some brands even offer 

removeable facial cavity seals, side shields, 

straps, cords and more – for the ultimate 

in protection or simply to prevent your 

glasses from going astray. 

Originally, you could really only 

buy glasses with glass lenses but the 

introduction of impact-resistant 

polycarbonate has made fishing eyewear 

lighter in weight and less prone to 

damage; many of these declare themselves 

scratch-resistant, which is especially 

important if you have spent hundreds of 

pounds or dollars on a pair. 

Equally, keeping them on a cord, chain 

or retainer strap is a must to ensure you 

don’t lose them, although some brands like 

Flying Fisherman are also now offering 

glasses that float, especially useful if you 

are on a jetty or a boat. 


19


EYEWEAR 

BAJÍO 

SIGS 

Sigs’ fun colours and casual style disguise a deep list of 

technical, fishy features – from wide, polarised lenses for 

an enhanced field of vision to patent-pending blue light 

blocking LAPIS technology that keeps bad light out and 

reduces eye strain. These medium-fit, full-wrap shades 

with narrow temples also offer stealthy sun protection with 

Bajío’s built-in Sun Ledge - not visible from the outside, it 

blocks rays from the inside. Plus it’s also available in RX and 

Readers. 

Named after General Albert Sigsbee, a distinguished naval 

officer, Sigsbee Key has been home to a naval air base since 

the early 1900s and now houses the Naval Air Station, Key 

West, and a training ground for some of their top pilots. 

www.bajiosunglasses.com 

COSTA 

580G GOLD MIRROR 

Costa has just unveiled its latest glass lens – the 580G Gold Mirror, 

meaning the brand‘s 580 lens technology, renowned for its exceptional 

clarity and colour enhancement, is now available in gold. 

Designed with a rose base for a natural contrast boost and an 

encapsulated gold mirror finish, these lenses create a distinct lifestyle/ 

performance aesthetic and are the perfect go-to for variable light 

conditions between partial and full sun. 

The 580G Gold Mirror lenses will soon be available in more than 20 

Costa styles (in pro, hybrid and lifestyle frames), with an early release 

of Sullivan, Reefton PRO, Spearo XL & Loreto. 

www.costadelmar.com 

FLYING FISHERMAN 

RAFTER 

With its TPX floating technology, the ultralight Rafter floats in fresh or salt 

water, so there’s no stress if they fall overboard on your next adventure. 

The wraparound frames are built with eight-base curve lenses for a 

generous field of view, wide temples to block side glare and non-slip nose 

pads to keep them in place. 

AcuTint polarised lenses enhance contrast and sharpen optics, while 

eliminating reflected glare and harmful UV, and are treated for saltwater 

resistance. 

Available in matte black with smoke lenses, matte black with silver 

mirror, matte black with green mirror, and matte tortoise with blue 

mirror. 

www.flyingfisherman.com 

WILEY X 

WX FOUNDER 

Get ready to elevate your style and performance with Wiley X’s 

latest masterpiece – the WX Founder. 

Honouring its pioneering founder, this iconic model features 

CAPTIVATE colour-boosting lenses for unparalleled clarity in 

any environment. 

With a durable build and slip-free design, it’s perfect for 

every adventure. From urban streets to rugged trails, the WX 

Founder ensures you stand out while staying protected. 

Join the revolution and experience the ultimate fusion of 

legacy and innovation. With WX Founder, you’ll see the world 

in a whole new light! 

www.wileyx.eu 

FIN-NOR 

DROPFLY 

The Dropfly is a fishing-centric style, with a six-base performance unisex 

frame made with lightweight, flexible materials that include adjustable nose 

pads and integrated spring hinges, which prevent pressure points and allow 

for all-day comfort. 

These frames are lightweight and highly breathable, perfect for long days 

in all outdoor environments. 

All Fin-Nor eyewear has Lateral Line lens technology, which features 

the most advanced technology on the market that provides maximum 

protection, clarity and polarisation. 

www.fin-nor.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 2024 

UNI SOFT WIRE EXTRA SMALL GAUGE # 36 0.006 INCH 

BLACK 

YELLOW 

SILVER 

OLIVE 

AXXEL-MINI FLASH TINSEL 

UNI-MOHAIR 

UNI-STRAP 

FUCHSIA 

IRON GRAY 

CAMEL 

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

www.uniproducts.com

FEATURE 

LIVETARGET LURES 

HAVE TECHNOLOGY 

AT THEIR CORE 

Soft plastic lures are the “go-to” of many anglers but the way they are produced changed 

forever when lure manufacturer LIVETARGET introduced its Injected Core Technology (ICT). 

Available in profiles ranging 

from simple to gaudy and 

colours that span the spectrum 

from muted to other-worldly, 

soft plastic baits are well-established 

staples in the arsenals of anglers in 

freshwater, as well as those chasing a wide 

range of finned predators in the seas. 

Still, most soft lures that we thread 

on hooks and dress on jigs have changed 

little since the advent of grubs and worms 

in the 1950s. 

Warm polymer stews, steeped with 

coloured dyes and glitter, are injected 

or poured into metal moulds; when the 

whole operation cools, soft lures emerge. 

While the sizes and shapes of soft 

plastic lures are limited only by the 

bounds of anglers’ imaginations, they 

all suffer from precisely the same 

shortcomings: most soft baits don’t look 

anything like the natural forage that 

predator fish eat, and few behave like 

natural vulnerable prey. 


CHanging THE dYnaMiC 

In 2018, that all changed, thanks to 

Injected Core Technology (ICT) from 

LIVETARGET, the leader in forage 

replication, creating baits that truly match 

the hatch. 

“ICT allows the anglers’ target fish species 

to be presented with an ultra-realistic bait 

that matches the hatch of endless forages 

from around the world,” explained Isaac 

Payne, director of innovation and product 

development for LIVETARGET. 

“The technology uses a combination of 

surfaces and layers alike, which gives the 

bait a unique profound three-dimensional 

effect by allowing light to be refracted 

throughout the lure; enticing trophy-sized 

fish to take the bait.”

Mustad 

Injected Core Technology has taken 

soft plastic baits beyond the 21st century, 

uniting artistry with engineering to 

deliver unprecedented levels of soft 

plastic form and function. 

Lures manufactured with Injected Core 

Technology are effectively a bait-withina-bait, 

featuring a vibrant, biomimetic, 

forage-profile interior that is fully 

encapsulated and intimately linked to a 

clear, soft polymer exo-skin. 

Isaac continued: “These engineered, 

multiple surfaces and layers have created 

unlimited possibilities for optimal life-like 

action and natural movement when fished 

“Our passion is 

to continually 

develop 

and deliver 

unmatched 

products.” 

throughout the water; which is bolstered by 

injected calibrated texture for unmatched 

performance.” 

Matching anatomical features are 

aligned on both the interior core and its 

protective shell, producing unique threedimensional, 

flash-generating textures 

that are both robust and ultra-realistic. 

“The use of different finishes within the 

bait, opaque to transparent layered colour 

through hand painting, digital printing, 

and injected techniques has continued 

the evolution of cutting-edge design and 

craftsmanship,” Isaac revealed. 

Moving forward 

Being a fundamental technology of the 

iconic North American brand, Injected 

Core Technology continues to be a priority 

for LIVETARGET lure development as 

the industry of lure design grows. 

Isaac concluded: “While ICT has 

continued to match the hatch over the years, 

the concept has also evolved by using the latest 

technological advancements and innovating on 

what is possible by matching the ambition of 

anglers and fish alike. 

“Our passion is to continually develop 

and deliver unmatched products, while 

maintaining a keen focus and eye on the future 

of the sport of fishing.” 

mustad 

www. mustad-fishing.com/livetarget 


23

FEATURE 

FirstDart 

FIRSTDART 

IN LINE FOR 

MORE MONO 

INNOVATION 

Line manufacturer FirstDart continues 

to make strides in its innovation plan, 

introducing an exceptional mono 

running line – G2R – to the market. 

Singapore-based line maker 

FirstDart has announced the 

launch of its next generation 

running line, building on its 

commitment to innovation growth. 

Sandy Ogata, the company’s general 

manager, attributed this success to 

FirstDart’s expertise in advanced 

extrusion and material knowledge. 

Sandy specifically acknowledged the 

pivotal role played by the Research 

and Development (R&D) team, led by 

Yuhock Soh, in propelling the project 

forward. 

Yuhock and his team are now extending 

an invitation to anglers to experience 

the superiority of the next generation 

monofilament running line developed by 

FirstDart. 

Yuhock said: “When considering 

monofilament running lines, factors 

such as abrasion resistance, durability, 

memory-free via simple stretching, and 

overall performance are paramount. 

“This is precisely where G2R fishing 

monofilaments excel. Engineered using 

state-of-the-art polymer blending 

technology and premium materials, 

G2R offers a multitude of advantages 

that elevate your angling experience to 

unprecedented levels.” 


REDEFINING FISHING LINE 

According to Yuhock, the G2R fishing 

monofilament offers a spectrum of 

advantages that redefine the angling 

experience: 

1. Controlled Stiffness: The G2R 

running line boasts tailored stiffness, 

specifically crafted for monofilament 

applications, providing the durability 

essential for navigating tough conditions, 

mitigating tangles, and confidently 

landing trophy catches. 

2. Temperature Stability: Anglers can 

fish comfortably in any environment as 

G2R maintains its mechanical properties 

in extreme low or high temperatures, 

ensuring consistent performance when it 

matters most. 

3. Resilience to Impact: With 

superior impact resistance, G2R fishing 

monofilaments endure sudden shocks 

and rough handling, guaranteeing 

performance integrity even in challenging 

situations. 

4.Chemical and UV Resistance: G2R’s 

resistance to chemicals, oils, solvents 

and UV radiation ensures longevity and 

reliability, enabling anglers to confront 

harsh conditions with confidence. 

5. Premium Quality: As a flagship 

product in FirstDart’s Premium Fly Line 

Series, the G2R running line epitomises 

reliability, durability, and performance, 

essential for connecting with trophy 

catches. 

In summary, the G2R mono running 

line represents a significant leap in 

fishing gear technology, offering anglers 

a superior option that enhances their 

angling experience through advanced 

features and capabilities. 

FIRSTDART 

www.firstdart.com

FULL RANGE OF TERMINAL TACKLE AND ACCESSORIES 

It’s a 

family 

thing 

EST. 

1958 

F J Neil has been family owned and operated since the 

1950s… and is still going strong! Under the Dolphin brand 

we supply all types of terminal tackle and accessories, from 

traditional bamboo poles to the latest rigs and lures. 

• Competitive pricing 

• Large stock inventory – no order delays 

• Rapid turnaround • Export specialists 

• Able to source any special requirements 

FOR FULL TRADE DETAILS 

PLEASE CONTACT US AT CANEFISH@AOL.COM / +1 631-957-1073 

FJ NEIL COMPANY INC, 1064 ROUTE 109, PO BOX 617, LINDENHURST, NY 11757-0617 USA 

We are looking for experienced agents or distributors for the European market. If qualified, email Neil Miritello at nmfjn@aol.com 

A GROUNDBREAKING SERIES OF GUIDES AND TOPS, 

TONY ENGINEERING, PATENT PENDING! 

TONY HUANG 

PACBAY MINIMA - X offers an unparalleled level of durability, solving the problems commonly associated with inner rings 

popping out or getting crushed. Through extensive reform and innovation, PACBAY MINIMA - X is constructed using highstrength 

, one-piece stainless steel. Both the guides and tops utilize mirror polishing, multi-layer Hard Chrome plating, and 

Titanium plating processes, resulting in corrosion resistance, low friction, and high thermal conductivity. As a result , the friction 

force during long-distance casting or retrieving is significantly reduced. 

If you’ve ever experienced the nightmare of losing or breaking your inner ring while battling a tough fish, you’ll appreciate the superiority of PACBAY 

MINIMA - X. Currently, we offer sizes ranging from #05 to #20, with plans to expand up to #50. More sizes and models will be available soon. We believe 

these guides are ideal for lure anglers, particularly carp anglers who often face issues with the #50 stripper guide getting damaged during transportation. 

With PACBAY MINIMA - X, this problem has been entirely eliminated. 

In summary, PACBAY MINIMA - X guides and tops are renowned for their exceptional durability and ability to withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. 

This innovation in the fishing world, through the abandonment of ceramic and stainless-steel rings, allows fishermen to bid farewell to the nightmares of 

ring breakages, crushing, and detachment. 

Build Great Fishing Rods 

www.fishpacbay.com 

info@fishpacbay.com

DBW... 

ALASKA 

ALASKA 

D O I N G B U S I N E S S W I T H . . . 

The largest US state by area, Alaska is a world-renowned destination for 

fishing. Thanks to its thousands of rivers, millions of lakes and thousands 

of miles of coastline, it offers some truly diverse sport in often stunning 

locations. How do you get the most from it? 

L 

ocated 

in the 

northwest 

corner 

of North 

America, 

Alaska may 

be the most sparsely inhabited 

of the United States with 

one of the smallest resident 

populations but it is home 

to abundant freshwater fish 

stocks, from various salmon to 

rainbow trout, grayling, Arctic 

char, Dolly Varden and pike, 

among others. 

Some of the salmon species 

can also be targeted in 

saltwater, alongside myriad 

rockfish, ling cod, halibut, 

sablefish (black cod) and 

Pacific cod and more. 

With an estimated 627 

species of fish in total, Alaska 

makes a dream destination 

for any angler and it’s perhaps 

no surprise that around two 

thirds of fishing licences for 

the territory are purchased by 

visitors rather than residents 

each year. 

In all, there are 

approximately 3,000 rivers, 

three million lakes and 6,640 

miles of coastline to go at, 

resulting in thriving businesses 

for fishing lodges inland and 

charter boats in various ports. 

Alaskan angling is overseen 

by the Division of Sport Fish, 

which protects, maintains 

and improves these valuable 

sport fisheries and the many 

personal use fisheries. 

Established in 1951, the 

division’s creation coincided 

with the Dingell-Johnson Act, 

which established an excise tax 

on items such as fishing tackle 

and motor boat fuel. 

These Sport Fish 

Restoration funds are 

distributed back to the states 

to conduct activities such as 

fisheries management, research 

and restoration. 


DBW... 

ALASKA 

FACT FILE 

Capital: Juneau 

Largest city: Anchorage 

Total area: 665,384 sq m (1,723,337 sq km) 

Population: 733,391 (2020 figure) 

Languages (spoken): English (86.3%), Alaskan native languages (5.2%), 

Tagalog (3.4%), Spanish (2.9%), others (2.2%) 

Time zones: UTC -8 to -10 

Dialling code: +1 

GEOGRAPHY AND 

ECONOMY 

Alaska is not part of the 

continguous USA – often 

referred to as the ‘Lower 48’ 

– and its capital city, Juneau, 

while on the mainland of the 

continent, is not connected by 

road to the rest of the North 

American highway system. 

It is bordered by Canada’s Yukon 

and British Columbia to the 

east, the Gulf of Alaska and 

Pacific Ocean to the south and 

southwest; the Bering Strait, 

Bering Sea and Chuckchi Sea to 

the west and the Arctic Ocean to 

the north. 

Its territorial waters even 

touch those of Russia and Alaska 

has a longer coastline than all 

the other US states combined. It 

is also far and away the largest 

state in the US – being more 

than twice of the size of the next 

biggest, Texas. 

While the oil and gas industry 

dominate the Alaskan economy, 

with more than 80 per cent of its 

revenues derived from petroleum 

extraction, its other main export 

product is seafood, primarily 

salmon, cod, pollock and crab, 

while tourism also plays a 

part in the region’s wealth and 

employment, thanks to the many 

fly fishing lodges, charter boats 

and outdoor stores. 

Every region of Alaska offers 

accommodations that cater to 

the needs of the angler, ranging 

from rustic camping to allinclusive 

luxury lodges and 

everything in between. 

Saltwater fishing charters are 

extremely popular, with expert 

captains offering everything 

from salmon and halibut fishing 

to chasing rockfish, cod and even 

bass. 

Alongside the substantial 

freshwater fishing in Alaska‘s 

pristine rivers and streams, 

there are also some great ice 

fishing opportunities as winter 

arrives. 


27

DBW... 

ALASKA 

H O W D O T H E Y F I S H ? 

The King or Chinook salmon 

is the chief quarry for many in 

Alaska although, due to falling 

numbers, fishing in some places 

has been limited in recent places 

and, in some locations, closed 

entirely. 

However, there are four other 

species of Pacific salmon to go at – 

sockeye, chum, silver (or coho) and 

pink – not to mention rainbow 

trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic char 

and grayling and even pike in a 

number of spots. 

In contrast to the plight of King 

salmon in many areas, sockeye are 

at a high point right now – indeed 

places like the Kenai River are 

where to head for at present. 

Rainbow trout fishing is also as 

good as it ever was. They are native to 

waters throughout southeast Alaska, the 

clearwater lakes and streams draining into 

Bristol Bay provide outstanding habitat. 

Release of hatchery-reared Alaska 

rainbows has extended their range of 

resident rainbows to specific lakes and 

streams in the Tanana River drainage near 

Fairbanks. 

Head away from freshwater and out to 

the sea and you’ll find more salmon, along 

with halibut, ling cod, a variety of rockfish 

species, Pacific cod and more. 

Here, charter boats are the best way of 

targeting the saltwater bottom feeding 

species. Indeed, charter boats abound in 

Salmon fishing in Alaska 

Arctic char 

many ports, mainly because 

Alaska is so remote and 

the population so small 

and sparse, with plenty of 

visiting anglers. The boats 

offer a variety of fishing 

styles, including jigging and 

trolling for everything from 

black cod to chinook. 

Inland, head for one of the hundreds 

of fishing lodges offering fly fishing for 

Dolly Varden, Arctic char, rainbow trout, 

grayling and so on using mostly singlehanded 

rods, or doubled-handed for 

swinging flies for salmon or very large 

rainbows in some regions. 

In the north you’ll also find native 

northern pike, too, which are becoming 

Fly fishing is popular 

more popular to target, although be aware 

that, further south, they are a non-native 

species, often illegally introduced to lakes 

and streams in the south central region. 

As the apex predator, they have had a 

dramatic and negative effect on juvenile 

salmon numbers, not to mention rainbow 

trout. In the south central region, 

returning pike is not allowed. 


R E G I O N A L V A R I A T I O N S 

DBW... 

ALASKA 

The Alaska Department of 

Fishing and Game splits the 

state into several distinct 

regions, including southwest, 

south central, southeast and 

northern, with differing 

opportunities and fishing styles 

in each. 

It’s also worth noting that 

the state regularly issues 

Emergency Orders, changing 

the rules in any given season, 

often because of more or 

fewer fish than expected or 

where there is a biological 

conservation concern. 

The northern region is 

characterised by a mix of 

forests, tundra, lakes, glacial 

and clear water streams, with 

mountain ranges, national 

parks and rivers like the Upper 

Susitna and Upper Copper. 

The region is home to 

Alaska’s second largest city, 

Fairbanks, and the USA’s most 

northerly city, Barrow. It’s also 

the place to head for great ice 

fishing in winter. 

South central is where 

you will find more than half 

of Alaska’s residents, with 

mountains, lakes, rivers and 

abundant fishing opportunities, 

thanks to places like the Ship 

Creek in Anchorage, ports 

such as Whittier and Seward 

and, of course, the famous 

Kenai River. 

Head to Prince William 

Sound for some of the best 

saltwater fishing for halibut, 

ling cod, rockfish and all five 

native salmon species. 

Nicknamed “the panhandle”, 

the southeast boasts fjords, 

mountains, forests and a 

maritime climate and is home 

to Alaska’s capital, Juneau. 

There’s year-round fishing 

for wild trout, all salmon 

species, plus exceptional 

saltwater fishing from both 

boat and shore. 

The Situk River also has 

the state’s largest run of wild 

steelhead. 

From trophy rainbows to 

world-class salmon fishing, the 

southwest really is an angling 

paradise, including the deep 

lakes and pristine rivers of 

Bristol Bay, while the towns 

of Kodiak, King Salmon, 

Dutch Harbor and more offer 

accommodation and flights and 

boat services to further-flung 

destinations. 

R U L E S A N D R E G U L A T I O N S 

All residents age 18 or older and nonresidents 

age 16 or older must purchase and 

possess a sport fishing licence in Alaska, 

both for port and personal use fisheries. In 

addition, a king salmon stamp is required to 

fish for king salmon (except in stocked lakes). 

These laws apply in both fresh and marine 

waters. Alaska residents age 60 or older 

and Alaska disabled veterans who maintain 

their residency may participate in sport 

fisheries without a sport fishing licence, but 

must apply for and possess an ADF&G 

Identification Card. 

These card holders, resident anglers under 

18 years of age and non-residents under 16 

years of age do not need to purchase a king 

salmon stamp. 

All anglers must carry their harvest record 

card while fishing and record their catch 

immediately in the field, but do not need to 

turn it in at the end of the season. 

I N D U S T R Y V I E W 

GEORGE KRUMM, editor-in-chief, Fish Alaska magazine. 

“In terms of 

retailers in 

Alaska, there are 

five Sportsman’s 

Warehouses 

in the state, 

plus one Bass Pro and one Cabela’s shop in 

Anchorage, the rest made up of ‘mom and pop’ 

independent stores across the territory. 

“Having a rep is extremely important if 

you are keen on supplying the Alaskan tackle 

market; it’s also vital that they are anglers 

with a good knowledge of the state as some of 

the fishing styles can be very specific to certain 

species or areas. 

“Good quality gear and apparel is a must 

in Alaska; the weather conditions can often 

be challenging and, in many cases, you will 

find yourself fishing away from civilisation, so 

being self-sufficient is key. 

“Everything has to work well. You want 

tackle that won‘t let you down and clothing 

that is insulated and keeps out the rain – 

reliable equipment is crucial.” 


29

FEATURE 

CHINA FISH 2024 

BREAKS RECORDS 

FOR SHOW 

Exhibitors and visitors alike – old and new – contributed to the most successful China 

Fish event yet, with numbers of both domestic and overseas participants reaching 

impressive levels. 

After several years of waiting, 

because of the Covid-19 

pandemic, the giant China 

Fish event finally returned 

to its rightful place as one of the biggest 

tackle trade shows in the world. 

Following its enforced postponement, 

it was perhaps no surprise that record 

numbers of exhibitors flocked to Beijing’s 

New China International Exhibition 

Centre back in February. 

The organisers said that there were 

736 exhibitors – the highest in the 

event’s history – including 256 first-time 

standholders; that’s more than a third of 

exhibitors. They covered 39,300 sq m of 

floor space at the venue. 

The numbers also included 24 

international exhibitors from 14 countries 


or regions, including France, Germany, 

Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, 

Korea, Pakistan, Poland, Singapore, 

Taiwan, the UK and the USA. 

The show floor was busy and buzzy, 

thanks to 1,210 registered international 

buyers and 590 companies from 82 

different countries or territories. In fact, 

there were 520 first-time visitors too. 

NEW PRODUCT FOCUS 

With more than 91 per cent of those 

attending saying they were keen to see 

new tackle, it was perhaps no surprise,

China Fish 

FEATURE 

either, that the much-loved New Product 

Showcase once again proved popular, with 

176 products competing in a string of key 

categories. 

While many of the category winners 

came from the host country, there was 

success for Germany’s Ockert with 

its Climax Ever Braid and American 

tackle for its Tsuka 2 rod handle, which 

continues to win awards wherever it is 

shown. 

Hangzhou Fufan Industry’s folded 

net scooped the Most Popular Overall 

Product honour during the awards 

ceremony and banquet. 

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS 

The organisers are keen to continue 

to grow the event as an international 

trade show and were delighted to see 

representatives from so many countries 

either taking stands or visiting. 

They were aided by interpreters for 

different language speaking buyers, 

including Arabic, English, French, 

German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, 

Spanish and more. 

CHINA FISH ALL-IN-ONE 

Even though the 2024 show has ended, 

the work of China Fish continues with 

the organisation’s platform containing 

7,801 products in 22 categories from 580 

companies. Registered buyers can use 

these to continue their trade discussions 

after the show by viewing the online store 

or simply chatting to suppliers. 

Meanwhile, if you want to connect in 

person once again, then China Fish 2025 

dates have been set for February 9th to 

11th at the same Beijing venue. 

Best Product Showcase 

Freshwater Rod 

Weihai Crony Fishing Tackle 

Saltwater Rod 

Weihai Aquahunting Outdoor Products 

Freshwater Reel 

Cixi Yule Fishing Tackle 

Saltwater Reel 

Yangzhou Yuansheng Machinery 

Fly Fishing & Ice Fishing 

Mulei Yazhida Fishing Tackle 

Hard Lure 

Weihai Ecooda Outdoor Products 

Metal Lure 

Shenzhen YX Fishing Supply Co 

Soft Lure 

Anhui Luremaster Sporting Goods 

Best Freshwater Rod. Weihai 

Crony Fishing Tackle Co. 

WINNERS ALL-ROUND AT CHINA FISH 2024 

Local and international brands were winners at China Fish 2024’s Best 

Product Awards. 

Nets 

Hangzhou Fufan Industry 

Electronic Products 

Yachting Electronics (Nanjing) 

Fishing Apparel 

Jiaxing Scientific Outdoor 

Tackle Management 

Gaobeidian Longyuan Tourist Goods 

Fishing Accessory 

Yangjiang Dingxing Industrial 

Tackle Accessory 

American Tackle Company 

Fishing Boat & Accessory 

Ningbo Pelican Smart Fishing Tackle 

Camping & Outdoor Products 

Suzhou Yuzhongmanbu Rain Products 

CHINA FISH 

www.chinafishshow.org 

Fishing Line 

Ockert GmbH 

Most Popular Product 

Hangzhou Fufan Industry 


31

BAN FISHING POLICY LEADS TO ECOLOGICAL 

IMPROVEMENT IN YANGTZE RIVER 

When the spring breeze blows across the river in 

March, a feast of life is quietly taking place on the 

bank of the Qinhuai River in Xiaguan, Nanjing, 

where it enters the Yangtze River estuary. 

With the implementation of the Yangtze River 

protection policy and the ten-year fishing ban 

policy, the long-awaited crab tide reappeared 

at the intersection of the Yangtze River and 

Qinhuai River in Nanjing this year. 

This wonder has disappeared for more than 

20 years since the beginning of this century. 

Recently, countless Chinese mitten crab larvae 

have begun their migration, moving upstream 

from the Yangtze River and heading bravely 

towards the Qinhuai River. In the dark of night, 

the shore of the Qinhuai River estuary witnessed 

this magnificent crab tide. Under the moonlight, 

thousands of young crabs climbed along the flood control wall and tried to pass the river gate, like an unknown army, 

resolutely marching towards the river. Goal. 

However, not everyone is in awe of this wonder of nature. Some passers-by greedily capture these young creatures 

and try to turn them into delicacies. This behavior not only destroys the ecological balance and ignores legal 

prohibitions, but also deprives young crabs of the possibility of growing into plump hairy crabs in autumn. As the 

old saying goes: "If you don't catch crabs in spring, you won't lose crabs in autumn." Today's people seem to have 

forgotten this wisdom. 

Fortunately, the relevant departments responded quickly and have installed guardrails and crab ladders in relevant 

areas to prevent passers-by from picking up and helping small crabs cross the locks and enter the river. 

The Yangtze River Estuary was once a natural spawning ground for the Chinese mitten crab, but due to overfishing 

and environmental pollution, the number of wild crabs has plummeted. Fortunately, with the advancement of the 

Yangtze River protection policy, this situation has improved. 

Although the number of Chinese mitten crabs has rebounded, this does not mean that we can restart fishing. Wild 

crabs may accumulate heavy metals and organic pollutants in their bodies. Catching immature crabs will not only 

prevent you from enjoying the deliciousness of hairy crabs, but may also harm your health. The "Yangtze River 

Protection Law of the People's Republic of China" and the "Fisheries Management Regulations of Jiangsu Province" 

have explicitly prohibited fishing in the Yangtze River Basin. These are regulations that everyone should abide by. 

The life course of the Chinese mitten crab is full of hardships and miracles. They start from daphnia-like larvae in the 

sea, undergo multiple metamorphoses, and gradually grow into big-eyed larvae, then to first-stage larvae, and finally 

into juvenile crabs. In this process, they must overcome many difficulties and complete their migration from seawater 

to freshwater. This is not only a physiological change, but also a great test of vitality. The young crabs crawl on the 

bottom of the river, forming a magnificent "young crab tide", demonstrating the tenacity of life and the greatness of 

nature. 

Although the life of the Chinese mitten crab is short, it is of great significance. They are not only delicacies on our 

tables, but also an indispensable part of the Yangtze River ecosystem. To protect them is to protect our shared home. 

Let us respect life together, abide by the law, and witness the miracle of nature. 

From the perspective of Jiangsu fishermen, there is no doubt that the past few years have been lost. Jiangsu fishing has 

been completely banned, and there seems to be no possibility of recovery now. 

Among the many provinces in the Yangtze River Basin, Jiangsu’s fishing ban policy is undoubtedly the most 

stringent. From the perspective of the Yangtze River provinces, from Qinghai to Sichuan, Chongqing, Hubei, Anhui, 

and then to Jiangsu and Shanghai, Jiangsu Province passed the revised "Jiangsu Province Fisheries Management 

Regulations" and implemented a comprehensive fishing ban at the local legislative level, extending the scope to 

tributaries and lakes. This policy basically bans all fishing activities on the Yangtze River in Jiangsu Province, whether 

commercial or recreational. Such measures are very harsh for fishermen, but they are crucial to protecting aquatic 

biodiversity and restoring fishery resources, and also lay a solid foundation for the improvement of the Yangtze 

River's ecological environment. 

Fishing enthusiasts may regret the fishing ban policy because they have lost the fun of fishing on the river. But in the 

long term, these measures will help ensure the sustainability of fisheries resources, allowing future anglers to enjoy 

fishing in a healthier, richer natural environment. We believe that over time, these powerful measures will make the 

Yangtze River more vibrant and bring long-term benefits to all those who rely on these resources.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NEW 

PRODUCTIVITY AND FISHING INDUSTRY 

Many people think that sea fishing is a traditional leisure and entertainment activity that has nothing to 

do with productivity. Just like the Apple mobile phone, the integration of Apple mobile phone functions 

all requires the cooperation of new productivity. For example, mobile phones involve the core content of 

new productivity such as smart manufacturing, information content industry, information communication 

industry, and new materials. 

Of course, when we talk about sea fishing, we will directly think of the specific process of sea fishing. This 

is caused by the directional bias in thinking formation. In fact, the sea fishing industry, like Apple mobile 

phones, needs high-end sport fishing boat manufacturing, high-tech communication and radar systems, 

new material systems (carbon fiber, graphene fiber, marine aluminum, etc.), new energy, new power, etc. 

The core of the equipment industry is the core component of new productivity. 

From another perspective, sea fishing is just a display and application scenario of new productivity in the sea 

fishing industry. If you understand this sentence, then you may understand the logic between sea fishing, sea 

fishing industry and new productivity. 

In line with the development trend of the times, sea fishing life will lead a new realm of blue and beautiful 

life. 

A century of change has slowly unfolded, and we are already part of it. Joining the community of a shared 

future for the earth and jointly safeguarding the main theme of peaceful development of mankind and 

harmonious development of man and nature is the direction we actively advocate for development. The 

growth of the mainland economy is extremely weak. Apart from science and technology, local industries 

(including native doctors, heavenly doctors), and culture, there are not many areas where we can make a 

difference. The epidemic has warned us, how did we get through the past three years? Then in the future 

low-desire society, people will suddenly realize that material cannot determine consciousness! Low desire 

shows that people are awakening and returning, and it is true to live well in the present! Everything else is 

false. Because there is always only one second before death. All you insist on is to practice your state of mind 

and make yourself happy! 

The growth pole of the marine economy is exactly the blank world of human activities. Fascination with the 

sea is an instinctive need of human beings. When sea fishing life becomes a fashionable way of cultivating 

one's state of mind, its value lies in conveying the state of blooming heart from the inside out. Let smiles 

spread to China and let happiness see China. When this phenomenon appears all over the world, sea fishing 

is not only a new productive force, but also a joyful journey of soul restoration that touches the depths of the 

soul!

CHINA'S FISHING TACKLE INDUSTRY NGAGES 

IN FIERCE PRICE WAR 

In the past two days, the most popular thing in the fishing circle is the good news that fishing rods and baits 

are on sale at half price. Deng Gang, the owner of Tianyuan Fishing Tackle, suddenly made a "big price 

cut" and sold his own fishing rods at discounts ranging from half price. After returning from refueling in the 

distant Maldives, Deng Gang was full of energy and broadcast live for several hours. Putting a variety of its 

own fishing rods on the shelves, many fishing friends are surprised by the discounts, and some fishing rods 

are even sold at a "fracture price" of 30% off. 

Unsurprisingly, within a short period of time, Deng Gang’s fishing rods originally worth hundreds or 

thousands of yuan were sold at half price, and tens of thousands of them were quickly sold. After a live 

broadcast, a rough estimate shows that Deng Gang earned at least tens of millions. 

Deng Gang's appeal in the fishing community is indeed extraordinary. But here comes the question. Do 

anglers or dealers who previously purchased goods at high prices feel like they were “cut off”? 

Deng Gang made a "big price cut" in advance. This move directly caused an "earthquake" in the fishing 

circle, and a wave of price melee started. Many manufacturers chose to follow suit, with Handing 

significantly lowering the price of its own fishing rods; famous fisherman Li Damao also began selling fishing 

bait at almost crazy prices. 

Another leading company in the fishing industry, "Laogui" also announced before that it would adjust 

the price of its own silver carp and bighead carp bait to 6.66 yuan per pack. Such a price may have been 

unimaginable before. 

Deng Gang's "big price reduction" also aroused dissatisfaction among some peers and even dealers. Some 

people accused him of "ignoring martial ethics and engaging in sneak attacks." 

The reason is simple. Deng Gang's actions have created a psychological expectation among fishermen. 

If other manufacturers' fishing rods are still sold at the previous price, they will definitely lose the market.

It is still unclear whether some dealers who previously 

bought goods at high prices from Tianyuan will suffer 

heavy losses and whether Deng Gang will be compensated 

accordingly. 

No wonder some people in the industry denounced it on 

the Internet: They will never touch Tianyuan’s products 

again. It can be seen that Deng Gang's price war has 

caused a chain reaction in the fishing circle. 

For those smaller fishing tackle companies, it will be 

difficult to withstand such an offensive, and offline 

fishing tackle stores are expected to also struggle. Some 

people have already given predictions that more than 

half of fishing tackle shops will close in 2024, and fishing 

tackle companies without economies of scale will also be 

gradually eliminated in the future. 

Two years ago, everyone in the fishing industry was 

grateful to Deng Gang. Now, I'm afraid some people are 

going to "swear my mother". It’s really this moment and 

that moment! 

Can a price war solve the problems existing in the fishing 

industry? There is no doubt that Deng Gang's choice to 

start a price war must have been carefully considered. 

After rapid growth in the past two years, the fishing tackle 

industry has now reached a bottleneck. Coupled with the 

declining willingness of anglers to consume, competition 

in the fishing industry has become a red ocean. 

If the production load of the previously expanded 

production line cannot meet the standard, it can only 

be cut down. If the products squeezed in the early stage 

are not disposed of in time, they may also become a hot 

potato. 

Looking back at the fishing consumer market, many 

anglers who have cultivated their fishing hobby in the 

past few years may fall into fishing anxiety in the new year. First, they don’t have a lot of time. Second, 

their pockets may not be as big. Third, It is the “no fishing” regulations in many places that discourages 

fishermen. 

Fishing is a leisure activity of "leisure, money and fun". When the above three conditions are no longer 

met, the willingness to fish will drop to freezing point. If one angler encounters the above situation, it may 

not have any impact, but when thousands of anglers combine the above factors, the impact will be huge. 

This phenomenon is reflected on fishing tackle companies, which is that the previous high-speed growth 

performance suddenly reaches an inflection point, and the situation takes a turn for the worse, and they 

have to cut off their strength, otherwise it will be difficult to survive. 

However, is relying on price wars to stimulate anglers' demand just like drinking poison to quench thirst? If 

the consumption willingness of fishing groups still does not change, Teacher Deng may enjoy a short-term 

performance growth after this wave of price wars, but it is still difficult to determine whether the subsequent 

situation is optimistic. 

In the long run, for those in the fishing industry to survive, the most important thing is to maintain 

the sustainable development of recreational fishing. If everyone’s enthusiasm for fishing is ruthlessly 

dampened by measures such as the “ban on fishing”, it will probably be useless no matter how hard we 

try. 

Deng Gang and those head fishing companies should rely on their own influence to improve the 

recreational fishing environment. When the enthusiasm of fishing friends is aroused, fishing tackle 

companies will naturally have no worries about running out of food. On the contrary, I am afraid that most 

of the people in this industry will no longer be as optimistic as before.

FEATURE 

ZENAQ’S TYPE R 

TOBIZO WINNING THE 

RACE FOR TOP SPOT 

Hard-fighting fish, big lures and tough conditions call for high-performance rods. 

Thankfully, ZENAQ’s Tobizo Type R Racing concept delivers a winning formula every time. 

Japanese brand ZENAQ has 

always been at the forefront of 

rod-building technology. Its 

Racing concept product 

line has always been at the cutting 

edge, breaking down stereotypes and 

constantly challenging preconceptions. 

Its Tobizo rods truly showcase this 

spirit. 

These rods are said to embody many 

qualities but they also boast a wealth of 

features that are designed to not only 

make them stand out from the crowd 

but also deliver performance 

when it matters most. 

Its newly developed 

Hexagon reel seat, for example, is 

manufactured from high-strength, longfibre 

Torayca carbon using a special 

moulding machine to form a sturdy 

framework. As a result, even large reels 

will be held securely without wobbling. 

As if that wasn’t enough, the surface 

of the framework is covered with a 

special rubber to create a new feeling of 

comfort in the hands. 

This means the rod demonstrates 

an easy action, with no need for 

unnecessary force. 

The hexagonal shape is said to 

suppress left and right reel rattling 

and transmit power without loss. This 

can conserve hand strength, which is 

the first thing to give up under intense 

angling conditions, increasing the 

probability of landing a big fish. 

A rubber cushion has been 

devised for the area where 

the reel foot rests. This 

prevents the reel from loosening even if 

it’s not fully tightened and stops it from 

rattling even in extreme conditions. And 

we all know how important it is to have 

our rod and reel perfectly integrated. 

Meanwhile, the Hexagon Grip has 

been built to drastically reduce the 

burden on the angler; the irregular, 

hexagonal front grip allows for secure 

yet easy lure manipulation, along 

with general casting and, of course, 

fish fighting, making these grips 

indispensable for tackling big game fish. 

GUIDING LIGHTS 

Another popular feature is the single 

wrapped guides, which create a feeling 

closer to the original blank design. 

Moreover, the single wrapped guides 

do not interfere with the rod’s action and 

allow for a much better feeling, ensuring a 

sharp rod action. 

Drawing out the fullest performance of 

these spinning rods is the redesigned guide 

system. 

The T-RVSG40 is used as the butt guide 

to ensure further smooth line release with 


ZENAQ 

FEATURE 

large reels and heavier line. 

ZENAQ’s original assist guide is 

equipped in the tip section to minimise 

line trouble and keep anglers from 

missing any big chance. 

Other additions include a Type 

R original metal ring, special Type 

R original metal parts with a laser 

engraved Type R logo, a gun-metallic 

thread and silk-printed logo and an 

easy-to-hold end grip. 

The latter has been made with real 

attention to the hardness of the rubber 

and the surface finish while the precise 

combination of metal parts reduces 

any unnecessary grip area for smooth 

casting. 

Constant cast testing and 

understanding of the grip’s requirements 

has resulted in what ZENAQ 

calls “functional beauty” alongside 

exceptional feeling to deliver perfect 

casts every time without undue fatigue. 

ZENAQ 

www.zenaq.com 

TECH SPEC 

TOBIZO TC84-100G TYPE R 

Length: 8ft 4in 

Lure: Max 150g 

PE Line: Max 8 










Length: 8ft 




37

MAKING 

CONTACT 

Making Contact 

1 

2 

3 

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 

Contact John directly for details of 

how to send your product and a 

short description to Tackle Trade 

World’s office. 

1 DAIWA 

LEXA HD 500 REEL 

Daiwa has listened to its saltwater 

and freshwater predator faithful 

about their line-capacity needs. 

They requested a super-capacity 

spool on a full-figured but pristinely 

performing baitcasting reel. 

The Lexa HD 500 is a larger, lowprofile 

baitcaster to hurl big baits 

to offshore and nearshore species, 

as well as pike and muskies. 

Beyond its super-capacity spool, 

the reel boasts exclusive Daiwa 

features and technologies like 

Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD), 

Advanced Robust Construction, 

Magforce Cast Control and a six 

CRBB, one RB bearing system, 

plus an aluminium frame and side 

cover, 120mm swept handle and 

stainless steel gears throughout. 

2 MUSTAD 

ALPHA-GRIP FLIPPING HOOK 

Designed for tempting bass in 

heavy cover, this hook boasts a 2X 

strong heavy gauge construction 

that that will not flex, bend or 

break under pressure. 

Its innovative Alpha-Grip 

baitholder pin securely holds 

soft plastics in place, ensuring 

optimal presentation. The 

unique angle and red epoxy in 

the eye provide a steadfast grip. 

Leveraging Mustad’s AlphaPoint 

4.8 technology, precision fishing is 

enhanced by the combination of 

a slimmer, incredibly sharp point 

and the durability synonymous 

with Mustad. The TitanX finish 

enhances the hook’s sharpness 

and smoothness to maximise 

penetration. 

3 UNI-PRODUCTS 

AXXEL-MINI FLASH TINSEL 

UNI-Products, a world leader in 

the supply of spooled fly-tying 

materials, has added Axxel-Mini to 

its very popular Axxel flash line. 

Axxel-Mini is a narrow strand 

of sparkling material available on 

17-yard spools. With 16 colours, it 

adds versatility to create attractive 

fly bodies, wings and tails – Aqua, 

Black, Bronze, Claret, Copper, Gold, 

Multicolour, Mystic Gold, Mystic 

Red, Olive, Orange, Peacock, Pearl, 

Rainbow Black, Rainbow Purple and 

Silver. 

Tyers can also take advantage 

of its 20-spool Axxel-Mini combo 

pack. 

www.uniproducts.com 

www.daiwa.us 

www.mustad-fishing.com 


Super 

Heat Dissipation 

 

 

 

Super 

Low-Friction 

Super 

Hardness 

Super 

Lightness

Classifieds 

SPLIT RING 

PLIERS 

CLASSIFIEDS 

UNIQUELY DIFFERENT (NEW-PATENTED) 

The EASIEST... The FASTEST... 

The BESTEST... 

for changing hooks or spinner blades 

visit www.TexasTackle.com for demo video 

WHOLESALE ONLY 

4 Sizes 

www.TexasTackle.com 

RIGS !!!! 

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… 

JULY 2024 

Ad Copy: May 17th, 2024 

Mailed: June 5th, 2024 

Special issue: ICAST preview 

Spotlight: Tackle Storage 

Doing Business With: Pacific 

Northwest 

AUGUST 2024 

Ad Copy: June 21st, 2024 

Mailed: July 10th, 2024 

Special issue: Predator fishing 

Spotlight: Hooks 

Doing Business With: MIddle East 

SEPTEMBER 2024 

Ad Copy: July 19th, 2024 

Mailed: August 7th, 2024 

Special issue: Predator fishing 

Spotlight: ICAST & EFTTEX Reviews 

Doing Business With: Central America 

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

With decades of experience in the fishing 

industry, Foundation Outdoor Group is 

dedicated to understanding your business. 

From product development to distribution 

solutions, we provide solutions and services that 

help fishing rod businesses grow. 

FoundationOutdoorGroup.com Call Today: (800) 516-1750

FEATURE 

Marketing 

UNDER THE INFLUENCE 

Engaging with influencers can be a powerful way to grow your brand, as it allows you to tap 

into their established audience and credibility. Here’s how to go about it… 

Everyone is talking 

about the value of 

‘influencers’ today 

and what they can 

bring to your brand. But how 

to find these people and work 

with them to reach more 

potential customers? The first 

step is to identify relevant 

influencers. Look for those 

whose audience aligns with 

your target demographic and 

whose content complements 

your brand. 

Tools like social media 

analytics platforms, influencer 

marketing platforms, or 

manual searches on social 

media can help you find 

relevant influencers. 

Before reaching out, engage 

with the influencer’s content 

by liking, commenting and 

sharing. This helps establish 

familiarity and shows genuine 

interest in their work. Follow 

them on social media and 

subscribe to their newsletters 

if they have one. 

When reaching out to 

influencers, personalise your 

messages. Mention specific 

content of theirs that you 

enjoyed or explain why you 

think they would be a good fit 

for your brand. Avoid generic 

messages that sound like mass 

emails. 

MAKING IT WORK 

Of course, the influencer 

will want to know what’s 

in it for them! So make 

sure you offer something of 

value in exchange for their 

collaboration. This could be 

monetary compensation, free 

products, exclusive discounts 

for their audience or exposure 

to your own audience. 

It’s also important to 

be very clear about your 

expectations. Make sure you 

outline what you expect from 

the influencer in terms of 

content, posting frequency, 

messaging and any other 

requirements. Be open to their 

input and creative ideas as 

well. 

Encourage influencers 

to create content that feels 

authentic to their brand 

and audience. Forced or 

inauthentic endorsements can 

backfire and damage both the 

influencer’s credibility and 

your brand’s reputation. 

Set measurable goals for 

your influencer marketing 

campaigns and track their 

performance. Metrics such 

as engagement rates, website 

traffic, and sales attributed to 

the influencer can help you 

evaluate the effectiveness of 

your partnerships. 

MAINTAINING THE 

RELATIONSHIP 

Building long-term 

relationships with influencers 

can be more beneficial than 

one-off collaborations. 

Continue to engage with 

them, even after the campaign 

ends and consider working 

with them again in the 

future if the partnership was 

successful. 

Ensure that your influencer 

partnerships comply with 

relevant regulations, such as 

disclosing sponsored content 

or adhering to advertising 

standards set by platforms 

like the Federal Trade 

Commission (FTC) in the 

United States. 

Keep an eye on industry 

trends and changes in the 

influencer landscape and 

be prepared to adapt your 

strategy accordingly. What 

works today may not work 

tomorrow, so staying agile and 

responsive is key to ongoing 

success. 

By following these steps 

and approaching influencer 

partnerships strategically, you 

can effectively leverage their 

reach and influence to grow 

your brand. 

Hunter Media 

john@hunter-media.co.uk 

www.huntermedia.co.uk 


THE 10X MORE DURABLE, CHEMICALLY SHARPENED PRECISION NEEDLEPOINT

TRADITION 

MEETS 

INNOV ATION 

Engineered for discerning anglers and 

forward-thinking rod designers, the 

Tsuka 2 takes home ICAST Best of Show 

honors for American Tackle with its 

tough and lightweight single-piece 

forged carbon fiber construction. 

AMERICANTACKLE.US/TSUKA2

Tackle Trade World - May 2024

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