Tackle Trade World - November 2023

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COMMITTED TO INCREASING YOUR BUSINESS GLOBALLY
www.tackletradeworld.com
TACKLE DOWN UNDER
How did the Australian
tackle trade show go this
year? PAGE 10
ITALIAN FLAIR
Italy has so much to offer
the trade and anglers alike.
PAGE 24
EFTTEX 2023 HAILED
A SUCCESS BUT
MAKES NO PROFIT
Despite the European
tackle trade show,
EFTTEX, being
lauded as a success this summer
in Budapest, the organisers have
confirmed it made no profit.
It’s a blow to the European
Fishing Tackle Trade
Association (EFTTA) – which
owns the EFTTEX trademark
but did not organise the
2023 venture – as it had been
promised profits from the show
to help its work in lobbying
the European Parliament to
help secure the future of the
industry.
EFTTA CEO Olivier
Portrat told TTW: “Apparently,
no profit has been generated
and no money will be handed
over to EFTTA.”
Istvan Pal, an EFTTA board
member and one of the show
organisers through EFFTEX
Ltd/Hungary, (EFTTEX Kft)
which was formed specifically
to run the event, explained to
TTW: “EFTTEX 2023 was
revived with very good success.
“In total, 1,170 visitors came
to Budapest from 67 countries.
The last EFTTEX prepandemic
in Amsterdam had
1,636 visitors including 494
retailers; in Budapest we had
589 visitors wearing Retailer or
Wholesaler-Retailer badges.
“In post-show contact with
visitors/exhibitors (over 400
surveys were completed) the
show was rated 4.17 out of
five and industry publications
including TTW have said it
exceeded expectations for many.
“When EFTTA Ltd closed
its books, only 75 per cent of the
prepayments that the Londonbased
company received for
EFTTEX 2020 were returned
to those companies that had
prepaid for that show.
• 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

NOVEMBER
2023
TackleTrade
www.tackletradeworld.com
EDITORIAL
Editor:
John Hunter
THE SEARCH
FOR TRUTH AND
ACCOUNTABILITY
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
www.tackletradeworld.com
We all know that EFTTEX
and EFTTA have not
been happy bedfellows in
the last year and you can be sure we
haven’t heard the last of this.
The European Fishing Tackle Trade
Association – keen to carry on its
crucial work protecting the sport’s
future through its work at the highest
levels of the European Union – had
distanced itself from the EFTTEX
Show organisers, based in Hungary.
Indeed, TTW ran a story to that
effect at the end of last year – albeit
with couple of enforced changes to
the article as it was about to go to
press.
It seems that the original intention
to have nothing to do with the show
was watered down somewhat after
TTW contacted the various parties for
comment.
What was eventually agreed was
that, while EFTTA would retain
the EFTTEX trademark and name,
it would allow EFTTEX Kft in
Hungary to use it to set up and run
the 2023 event in Budapest.
However, in return, it was also
agreed that all profits from the show
would be donated to EFTTA to help
with its important industry work,
safeguarding the interests of European
fishing tackle businesses.
Except – there was no profit. The
organisers say they ploughed in far
more cash (much of it their own)
than they received from exhibitors for
stands and visitors for tickets.
3,511
6,466
But that only tells half the story.
Figures privately reported to TTW
seem to be at odds with the official
spending account, which raises more
than a few questions although it
must be stressed these have not been
officially verified.
At the same time, we have the
organisers of the Budapest show
initially declaring they would not run
another EFTTEX but now claiming
the positive response in 2023 has
encouraged them to reconsider and, at
worst, present options and alternatives
to the EFTTA board.
TTW understands these may
include a choice of venues in both
western and eastern Europe and
autumn dates rather the traditional
summer ones.
So, will there be an EFTTEX 2024
and who will be running it? As TTW
went to press we were still waiting on
an answer but, by the time you read
this, all may have become clearer!
Quite what the EFTTA board, let
alone the industry at large, makes of
all this is still to be determined but it
seems set for some kind of showdown.
Meanwhile, TTW will also have
been at the AFFTA Confluence event
in Salt Lake City – born from the
ashes of the 2022 IFTD Show – and
you can look forward to a report from
that in due course.
John Hunter
Editor

NOVEMBER
2023
18
24
16
10
Contents
08 NEWS
Mustad partners with Flyfish Europe for
growth while the latter adds Whiting
Farms to its portfolio, plus plenty of other
industry news…
10 TACKLE DOWN UNDER
How did the Australian Fishing Trade
Association’s show go in August? We have
a full report of the event, the gala dinner
and awards.
16 ITALIAN LINE MAKER GOING GREEN
Plastools, which scooped four awards at
EFTTEX 2023, has been making waves with
biodegradable packaging on its range of
fishing lines.
18 SPOTLIGHT ON… FLY TYING
Flytying is a crucial money spinning sector
but the array of materials and accessories
is bewildering. We demystify some of it for
you…
20 SHOP WINDOW
Hardened anglers love tying their own
flies. But, to do so, they need access to
great materials and tools. Are you stocking
the right gear?
06 www.tackletradeworld.com
30
22 SEMPERFLI MAKES SELECTIONS
SIMPLE
Fly tying materials supplier Semperfli has
a clever and simple system designed to
remove the hidden set-up costs of taking
on new items.
24 DOING BUSINESS WITH… ITALY
Home to many well-known brands, Italy is
renowned as a major player in the industry
while also offering countless fishing
opportunities.
28 ST. CROIX MARKS 75 YEARS
St. Croix Rod has been marking three
quarters of a century in business
throughout 2023. TTW looks back at the
history of this US manufacturer.
30 KEEPING KEY FLY BRANDS AFLOAT
When Ben Gehrke struggled to find his
favourite fly tying materials his quest led
to him buying an entire materials brand
and more…
34 ZENAQ GUIDES YOU TO INNOVATION
The Japanese brand’s RG guides first
appeared in 2007 but they continue to
evolve to ensure rods will always perform
at their best.
36 MAKING ECO-FRIENDLY GEAR THE
NORM
GT-Bio is at the forefront of
environmentally friendly products in
fishing. CEO Armando Sousa explains what
this means for his business and the trade.
40 WHY CHOOSE CHINA FISH 2024?
At long last China Fish 2024 is finally on
the horizon. How and why should you get
involved in one of the most crucial trade
shows in the world?
42 MAKING CONTACT
More great gear you should consider
stocking. Having the latest equipment can
drive customers to your outlet.
44 WHY LEAD-FREE FEEDERS ARE THE
FUTURE
Environmental consciousness plays
a leading role in Energofish’s product
development process. Its latest offering is
Go Green Feeders.
36
50 LAST CAST
UK angler and Farlows marketing executive
Lucy Bowden explains why more women
are getting into fishing and how it has
become more accessible.

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Heat Dissipation
Super
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Super
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Super
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EFTTEX 2023 HAILED A SUCCESS
BUT MAKES NO PROFIT
• Continued from page 3
“Despite the fact it had no
legal obligation, EFTTEX Ltd/
Hungary accepted parts of these
prepayments for stand payments
for its exhibitors in 2023.
“The volume of the accepted
credits exceeded the EFTTA
total membership amount by
20 per cent. The EFTTEX Kft
owners invested their private
money and worked totally for
free covering even the costs they
had related to EFTTEX travel as
well as paying full price for their
booths.
“Although the owners
aimed to produce additional
cash to be transferred, there is
no additional cash payment from
EFTTEX to EFTTA possible
from this first edition.”
EFTTA and EFTTEX
had been seen as two separate
entities since 2021, when the
EFTTA AISBL board (the new
organisation based in Brussels
following the dissolution of the
Istvan Pal
London company) agreed that
it could not rely on monies from
the show to finance its work.
This split was further evident
at the end of last year, when
EFTTA formally distanced itself
from the organisers of EFTTEX.
At the time, CEO Olivier
Portrat stated: “EFTTEX
Trading (EFTTEX Kft) does
not organise the EFFTEX show
on behalf of EFTTA AISBL
but for the benefit of EFTTA.
The profit of the show is being
Olivier Portrat
forwarded to EFTTA and used
to save the future of recreational
angling in Europe by our
lobbying work.”
However, it appears there is
no profit from the 2023 show
to hand over, to the surprise of
many.
PLANNING AHEAD
There have also been many
questions over plans for a 2024
event. Initially, Istvan and
EFTTEX Kft had said it would
not be running future events but
is unclear if that position has
changed.
Istvan revealed: “As promised,
the surveys completed onsite and
after the event will give the basis
of the offer EFTTEX Trading
(EFTTEX Kft) to present to
EFTTA board, the owner of
the EFTTEX trademark. Over
400 surveys were completed.
Based on the results, the current
organisers will present their offer
for licensing the EFTTEX name
for the next edition.
“I can’t reveal the location yet,
I can only say it is not Budapest,
as a big number of trade
members opted for a different
place. Although Budapest as a
meeting point was a clear success,
most of the trade members
wanted the organisers to consider
western European locations
too. So we will present an offer
including dates and location to
the board.”
St. Croix goes back to school of bass
St. Croix, the parent company to St. Croix
Rod, SEVIIN reels, Rod Geeks and more,
has announced a three-year partnership
with the US Collegiate Bass Fishing
Championship School of the Year.
The deal with the University of
Montevallo includes two-year sponsorship
of the university’s Falcons Fishing Team
and a six-month internship at St. Croix
for one of the team’s student athletes.
Jesse Simpkins, St. Croix vice-president
of marketing, said the agreement
represents great opportunities for both
organisations.
He explained: “The University of
Montevallo gets a lot of well-deserved
attention for the accomplishment of its
bass-fishing team.
“But behind all the titles and honours
the Falcons have earned on the water,
there’s a wonderful university supporting
the personal and professional growth of
these young people, many of whom aspire
to work in the fishing industry after
graduation.
“We’re providing
one of them with an
immersive six-month
internship within our
marketing department
for which they’ll
receive both real-world
experience and college
credit for their work.
“But, beyond
that, we have a
variety of additional
marketing projects and
opportunities planned
that will allow participation and growth
for as many Falcons team members who
want to get involved in the day-to-day
marketing activities that help fuel the
growth of our brands.”
The partnership also includes direct
support to the 2021/2022 MLF National
School of the Year, 2022/2023 Bassmaster
Team of the Year, and 2022/2023 MLF
National Champions in the form of
product sponsorship.
St. Croix Falcons fishing
“St. Croix Rod and SEVIIN Reels will
be sponsors of the Montevallo Falcons
Fishing Team in name, meaning that
we’re providing rods and reels to the team
to use as they see fit,” he added.
“We’re not dictating their use by any
individual team member; we want and
expect to earn the right to be in their
hands and on their decks.”
stcroixrods.com
08 www.tackletradeworld.com

Mustad partners with Flyfish
Europe for greater reach
Legendary fly hooks
manufacturer Mustad has
partnered with the fly
specialists at Flyfish Europe
to offer tackle across the
European market. From
September 1st, Flyfish Europe
– which distributes respectable
brands in the segment all over
Europe – has added Mustad as
its first hook manufacturer.
With this major joint
venture, fly tyers will find
Mustad hooks in local shops
everywhere.
Since Mustad began hook
production in 1877, fly hooks
have been a large part of the
Mustad hook selection and the
brand has stood as a key player
in the production of premium
hooks.
Mustad’s iconic styles
recently received a refresh with
the Heritage Fly Hook series
released with new technologies
and sustainable packaging.
“Mustad’s fly hook reach will
be expanded 20-fold with this
new agreement,” said Eddie
Payton, marketing manager for
Mustad EMEA
“The angling passion, fishing
knowledge, and industry
relationships that the Flyfish
Europe team have established
are irresistible to the Mustad
brand. We look forward to
exceptional growth in serving
retailers across the region.”
Founded in 2002, Flyfish
Europe has exclusively
supplied the market with 15
high-end fly fishing brands
including Simms, Bajio,
Scott Fly Rods and many
others. With the recent
announcement of cooperation
with premium tying feathers
expert Whiting Farms, Flyfish
Europe adds another piece of
the puzzle to reach enthusiasts
of both crafts – fly fishing and
fly tying.
“We are thrilled to introduce
Mustad fly hooks to our
repertoire. The brand strength
and high-quality products are
iconic among fly fishermen
and -women, giving us a
running start,” added Flyfish
Europe managing director
Jarle L Krtistansen.
“Our connections and
dedicated experience to fly
fishing will give Mustad hooks
the edge when introducing to
shops and end consumers.”
www.mustad-fishing.com
2023-24
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EUROPEAN DISTRIBUTION
DEAL FOR FLY MATERIAL FIRM
Both US-based fly tying materials supplier Whiting Farms and
distributor Flyfish Europe are looking at great new prospects
following their recent agreement.
Having dealt with multiple European distributors and dealers
in the past, Tom Whiting is pleased to be working with a single
distributor capable of effectively serving the European market in its
entirity. Tom, who founded Whiting Farms back in 1989, explained:
“Jarle L. Kristiansen, the MD of Flyfish Europe, and I go way back.
I’ve followed the rise of his distribution company and know how
highly regarded, efficient and smooth it has become.
“By teaming up with Flyfish Europe we’ll be able to serve retailers
across Europe in a transparent, cost-effective and coherent way that
will benefit everyone involved.”
Jarle is looking forward to building stock and getting the ball
rolling with his team.
He added: “Whiting fits well into our line-up of high-end fly
fishing brands. Knowing Tom’s dedication to quality, I’m happy
to offer the stock-, distribution- and dealer web solutions that his
products so sorely deserve within the European market. It’s going
to be a win-win situation, not only for Flyfish Europe and Whiting,
but also for the European retailers and end consumers.”
www. flyfisheurope.com

AUSTRALIAN TRADE SHOW
BRINGS SMILES ALL ROUND
The return of the Australian Fishing Trade
Association’s trade show in August brought
smiles to the industry as buyers and sellers
gathered on the Gold Coast to do business.
The three-day event attracted several
hundred stores and buyers on the first two
days followed by thousands of members
of the public on the final day as the show
threw open its doors to consumers.
AFTA president Michael Starkey said:
“Wow, what a show we’ve seen this year; the
support from exhibitors has been fantastic
with the show floorspace selling out weeks
early. We saw many retailers visit the show
and take advantage of the attendance
incentive.
“The trade show calendar offered plenty
of networking opportunities, from the show
itself, AFTA’s AGM, Happy Hour and the
Gala Dinner & Awards Night, which was
the biggest that AFTA has ever seen with
400 people attending for four hours of
drinks and socialising. The support from the
Victorian Government and Brandscope for
the dinner was fantastic.
“The incredible sponsorship from the
Queensland Government enabled AFTA to
offer free entry to all members of the public.
The lines were long and at times the hall
was packed.
“There’s already plenty of talk for the
2024 show; if you missed it in 2023, start
planning now to ensure you don’t do that
again!”
Among those attending was government
fisheries minister Mark Furner who also
attended the gala dinner as well as officially
opening the public day.
He said: “Anglers and fishing enthusiasts
like myself were out in force on the Gold
Coast for the Australian Fishing Trade
Association Tackle Show.
10 www.tackletradeworld.com
“This popular event showcases so many
outstanding fishing and marine products, all
under the one roof.
“As the Minister for Fisheries, I’ll
continue to champion our world-class
fisheries sector and the outstanding produce
it delivers to our plates.”
In a first for the organisers, AFTA’s
AGM was held on the first trade day of the
show at the Let’s Fish Australia stage and
was immediately followed by Happy Hour.
The meeting was attended by 48
members, representing 16 wholesale
companies, 12 retailers and one media
business.
There were three positions on the board
up for nomination this year, with Ben
Scales, Alicia Bolitho and Kord Luckus all
re-elected.
Once again AFTA’s Gala Dinner was
sold out – twice! This meant the organisers
had to request a larger room at the venue
and that evening more than 400 fishing
industry members filled the room.
The Seven Network’s Paul Burt was MC
for the evening while AFTA president
Michael Starkey delivered a quick update
about what the board has been working on
over the past 12 months.
The AFTA Hall of Fame welcomed its
newest inductee, Bill Classon, the executive
team from WARFFA was recognised by
the industry for their contribution over the
past 12 months and product, stand and best
store awards were also handed out.
Meanwhile, Victorian Fishing Authority’s
Caitlin Berecry-Brooks presented some
interesting insights on the Women in
Recreational Fishing and Boating network.
The Best In Show product awards
were voted on by the retailers who
attended the 2023 trade show, while the
Best Stand awards were voted on by the
Victorian Fisheries Authority and Women
in Recreational Fishing and Boating
(WIRFAB).
The Best Tackle Store award was voted
on by AFTA member wholesalers prior to
the show.
You can see all the award winners at
www.afta.net.au/2023-awards
THE SHOW IN NUMBERS
Day 1 – Thursday
285 buyers
143 stores
691 attendees
Day 2 – Friday
275 buyers
139 stores
748 attendees
Day 3 – Saturday
17 buyers
10 stores
4,854 public registered
2,620 public attended
3,067 attendees
Total Unique Retail Stores
174 stores
Number of Days Stores Attended
One day: 65
Two days: 114
Three days: 8
AFTA Tackle Show 2024 is scheduled
for August 15th – 17th at the Gold Coast
Convention & Exhibition Centre

Academy opens doors to
Texas anglers once more
US retail chain
Academy Sports +
Outdoors has added its
109th location in Texas,
with the opening of its
first store in Kyle.
The 56,000 sq
ft store brings a
wide assortment of
sports and outdoors
merchandise to the
area, along with big
brands in the outdoor
recreation sector such
as Shimano and YETI,
alongside Nike, The
North Face and many
more.
This is the fifth store
Academy has opened in 2023
with plans to open up to 140
new stores by the end of 2027.
Sam Johnson, Academy’s
executive vice-president of
retail operations, said: “As
MILLIONS OF DOLLARS ON THE
LINE TO TAKE US KIDS FISHING
We all know that taking kids fishing just a
few times creates a lifelong love of the sport
and a new US bill aims to support this to the
tune of $2 million.
The Youth Coastal Fishing Program Act
could help nurture the next generation
of anglers and, therefore, potential tackle
customers, which is why it is being backed
by US trade body the American Sportfishing
Association.
Studies indicate that just a little bit of
time outside daily at a young age has a
wide array of benefits including improved
physical and mental health and a better
understanding of the importance of
conservation. Fishing is a perfect way to
spend time outdoors, is relatively easy and
when learned at a young age, provides a
lifetime of enjoyment.
The act, if approved, would create a $2
million grant program to fund communitybased
schemes that take children on fishing
trips in coastal or Great Lakes waters.
Academy Sports + Outdoors
expands in our home state, we
are thrilled to bring more sports
and outdoor fun to the Kyle
community. We look forward
to providing a new convenient
location for the best sports and
This bill will give access to the water to
youth who otherwise may never learn to fish
or appreciate the outdoors and is seen as a
great first step towards encouraging kids to
fish.
The ASA is urging all US-based tackle
businesses, guides and anglers to write to
members of Congress and share the bill on
social media and with customers to ease its
passage through the system.
The ASA said: “Studies indicate that
children that spend time fishing receive
substantial physical and mental health
benefits compared to other children.
“Studies also show that 86 per cent of
anglers have gone fishing before the age
of 12, meaning that if you don’t go fishing
while you’re still a kid, the odds are low that
you ever will.
“Introducing new anglers – particularly
young people – to recreational fishing is one
of the overarching goals of the ASA.”
www.asafishing.org
outdoors equipment, at a great
value, so that families can get
to the fun faster.”
Originally founded in 1938
as a family business in Texas,
Academy has grown to 273
stores across 18 states.
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Website: www.wapsifly.com

NEWS IN BRIEF
Finding a way
Raymarine, a global leader in highperformance
marine electronics for
the recreational boating and other
markets, has seen its partnership
with autonomous boat navigation
provider Avikus continue to grow.
Several major boatbuilders
having agreed to integrate
Raymarine x Avikus NeuBoat Dock
technology into their next model
year.
Meanwhile, Raymarine and
Avikus have just unveiled the
NeuBoat Dock camera system at
major international shows.
Serving the Rockies
The opening of the 130,000 sq
ft Outdoor World will mark the
sixth Bass Pro Shops location in
Colorado, as it continues to expand
its presence to serve the Rocky
Mountain region.
Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny
Morris said: “We are very excited
to announce this new location
and continue to strengthen our
relationship with the western
sportsmen and women of Colorado
and beyond.
“This new store will make it
easier for the people and families
who love to hunt the mountains
and high plains of the West and
fish its rich streams to spend time
together in the great outdoors.”
Peli CEO on the
case
Peli Products, known for its rugged,
mission-critical protective cases,
coolers, and temperature-controlled
packaging, has named James ‘JC’
Curleigh as chief executive officer.
With over 30 years’ experience in
high-profile brands including M&M
Mars, Salomon Sports, TaylorMade
Golf, Keen footwear, Levi’s and most
recently Gibson guitars, he is wellequipped
to help lead Peli to new
heights.
The firm says his visionary
leadership and ability to adapt to
changing market dynamics align
seamlessly with its commitment to
delivering exceptional products and
experiences to its global customer
base.
MOST US ANGLERS AWARE
OF CONSERVATION NEEDS
The majority of US anglers understand that
their fishing licence fees play an important part
in wildlife conservation, which helps ensure the
future of their sport.
That’s according to the results of a study
by the Recreational Boating & Fishing
Foundation (RBFF), which is designed to
learn more about the connection consumers
are making between fishing, boating and
conservation.
Conducted every three years, the study’s
findings showcase steady progress in RBFF’s
goal to drive awareness of the conservation
efforts resulting from fishing and boating
participation. RBFF will use data from
the survey to inform actions that continue
resonating with consumers.
Among the key findings were that four in
five anglers know the benefits fishing licence
fees bring to wildlife conservation (up from
two in three in the 2019 survey).
Anglers’ awareness that some of this licence
cash is used for conservation is also strong and,
again, above the 2019 levels.
However, the research also showed that
less than 30 per cent of anglers felt that
conservation was a motivation to go fishing;
most saying that enjoying the outdoors and
spending time with family and friends were
key reasons to pick up a rod and reel.
That said, it was clear that conservation is
a passion shared by the vast majority of those
who go fishing – 92 per cent agreed they want
to help protect and preserve waterways and 91
per cent care about healthy fish populations
and public access to fishing.
The study also showcased that learning about
the link between licence fees and conservation
increased the likelihood of families going
fishing and that more communication about
the sport’s benefits should be targeted via
online and social media platforms.
Dave Chanda, RBFF’s president and CEO,
said: “This study shows RBFF’s efforts to
improve education around the ties between
licensing and conservation have been
consistent and effective.
“Education is key to continuing to grow
conservation awareness. Emphasising this link
will build momentum in the next generation
of anglers and boaters since this knowledge
increases the likelihood of participation.”
www.www.takemefishing.org/specialreport
UK tackle trade stalwart Ricky Teale passes
TackleTrade World recently
learned that Ricky Teale
had sadly passed away,
aged 56. Ricky was a top
UK match angler but it
was in the tackle industry
that he really made his
mark. He began working
at Preston Innovations
back in the 1990s and
turned what was then a
small company into one
of the biggest match
brands in Europe with the
introduction of countless
new, innovative products.
He also launched the
Sonubaits brand as well as
other non-match brands
in the Preston Innovations
stable such as Korum and
Avid.
He also had spells with
Fox International where
he created the Matrix
brand and more recently
Ricky Teale (left).
he worked for Zebco
before his last job role as
European project manager
at global tackle giant
Daiwa.
Ricky leaves his wife
Kath, son Dale and
daughter Kimi and our
sincere condolences go
out to all his family and
friends. He was a popular
character in the tackle
trade and he will be
deeply missed by all those
that knew him.
Ricky Teale
1967-2023
12 www.tackletradeworld.com

Quantum leap for
industry veteran
Mark Talwin
Tackle brand Quantum, part
of Rather Outdoors, has
added industry veteran Mark
Talwin to its team in the role
of senior product engineer.
With over a decade of
fishing reel engineering
excellence behind him, Mark
and the team are poised to
write an exciting new chapter
for Quantum in the USA
and deliver a new era of
innovation.
Quantum’s senior vicepresident
Mike Rice said:
“This brand has a rich
history and a name that still
resonates with avid anglers.
With such an accomplished
engineer like Mark joining
the team, we are laser focused
on Quantum’s future.”
Mark added: “I’m
extremely excited to join the
massive amount of talent
that is now under one roof
and driven toward one goal.
Quantum has all the pieces
of the puzzle to deliver the
best saltwater gear on the
market.”
Mark grew up in
Columbia, South Carolina,
where he and his wife
Brittany now raise their
young son, James. When he
is not designing reels for
Quantum, you will find him
putting them to work on his
home waters of Lake Murray
or along the coast of the
southeast.
www.quantumfishing.com
NO ’BULL’ FROM DAIWA
Daiwa’s latest saltwater-grade Bull Steel bladebait takes a freshwater
favourite out to sea.
For decades, freshwater anglers have cast, jigged and trolled these
hyperactive tight-wobblers like the Heddon Sonar for everything
from walleyes to spotted bass.
However, the lures and associated techniques haven’t really
penetrated the saltwater market… until now.
Cast and retrieved or dropped and pumped, Bull Steel emits a
sonic typhoon that fish can hear from afar. In fact, you can adjust the
sweet siren song by tying to one of its two cut outs, each creating a
unique underwater dining experience for the fish.
Its attractiveness is further enhanced with electric flashes as it
shakes violently from side to side. And its baitfish inspired silhouette
is instantly recognised by reef fish and pelagic species alike.
It’s available in in 1oz (30g) and 1.5oz (45g) sizes and four
colours.
YAMAHA MOTORS
INTO SALTWATER TEST
FACILITY
Yamaha Motor Corporation USA has purchased a Florida marina
with the aim of converting it into the Yamaha Offshore Endurance
Center (YOEC).
The facility at Fort George Island marina will serve as a testing
base for Yamaha Marine products including outboards, sport boats
and WaveRunners. It includes a 36,500 sq ft warehouse and marina
building as well as a 7,200 sq ft office and event space.
“The YOEC complements our test centres in Alabama and
Kennesaw while adding greater capacity and capability. It also
supports Yamaha Marine global testing plans by expanding
opportunities to develop products,” said Ben Speciale, president of
Yamaha US Marine Business Unit.
“The environment provided by this location will allow us to focus
on durability and reliability testing for larger engines, systems and
boat hull designs in an offshore environment. It will also include
an immersive team centre designed to inspire future engineering
talent.”
Earlier this year, Yamaha completed the expansion of its
freshwater test facility in Bridgeport, Alabama, adding 5,900 sq ft of
office space and 8,000 sq ft of labs and storage.
In addition, it recently finalised the construction of a new Marine
Innovation Center in Georgia.
www.daiwa.us

ANDREW BLAZES A TRAIL AS
HEAD OF MOUNTS FIRM
Boat and rod mounts and accessories
specialist Railblaza has announced
current US president Andrew
Moczygemba as its global CEO.
The former chief operating officer,
based in Houston, Texas, has been a key
part of the company’s organisational
transformation and enhanced
profitability in recent times across
various sectors.
Peter Tinholt, Railblaza director and
partner at private equity fund Oriens
Capital, said: “Andrew’s dedication,
strategic prowess and effective leadership
align deeply with Railblaza’s ethos. His
visceral knowledge of the market and our
products will help the business achieve
its ambitious goals. His passion for the
outdoors is pivotal for the advancement
of the organisation.”
Prior to joining Railblaza in 2014,
Andrew served as the new business
advisor and vice president of business
development at YakGear, Inc.
He has consistently exhibited
substantial competence in corporate
strategy as the company transitions
toward a more focused, growth-centric
business.
Railblaza chairman Nigel Jeffries
added: “It’s particularly pleasing that
we can promote from within. Andrew
has proven his ability to drive growth,
face challenges head-on and adopt an
entrepreneurial approach. The board took
careful consideration of Andrew’s location
in the US. We concluded that this was
not only appropriate but advantageous for
future business opportunities.”
With over two decades of experience,
his diverse background spans the outdoor
industry – including retail giant Bass Pro
Shops and former Texas-based paddle
sports maven Austin Canoe & Kayak.
Meanwhile, Ross Pratt, executive
director and Railblaza founder backed
Andrew’s elevated position: “After
working with Andrew for the last 10
years, his knowledge and belief in the
brand have been inspiring. His experience
in the outdoor industry is robust, and he
has all the skills to lead a strong team.”
intl.railblaza.com
Mazzaferro lines up fluorocarbon launch
Brazilian line manufacturer
Mazzaferro has released its
latest fluorocarbon, Trilon,
which has been developed as
a main line or leader for all
fishing needs.
Trilon fluorocarbon is
said to boast high abrasion
and knot resistance. The
crystalline aspect of the line
means it is almost totally
invisible in water, while
the resistance to the knot
is at least 70 per cent of its
linear resistance, a very high
parameter for the market of
leaders.
The high sensitivity derived
from its rigidity, and the
uniformity of the diameter
along the line gives it an
excellent tensile strength.
This latest product is
another demonstration
of Mazzaferro’s vision to
be recognised as a market
leader in fishing products,
maintaining its 70-year
tradition and pioneering
spirit, while constantly
seeking innovation and
sustainability.
The company, which
was the first synthetic line
industry in Brazil, is known
for a wide range of quality
lines such as Araty, Grilon,
Trilon and Dourado, each
with a focus on quality and
durability to meet the needs
of both professional and
amateur fishermen.
CEO Maurizio Mazzaferro
said: “The company
recognises the importance of
innovation and technology
to remain competitive in the
market. It constantly seeks
to update its production
processes, invest in new
manufacturing and research
technologies, in addition to
being attentive to industry
trends and customer needs.”
www.mazzaferropesca.com.br
14 www.tackletradeworld.com

Our Heartfelt Thanks for Being with China Fish All the Way
Getting Back to Your Business at
February 21-23, 2024
New China International Exhibition Center
Beijing, China
Registration is Open
On-line registration
http://web.chinafishshow.org/chinafish_reg
Any questions or more information
LiJiang@chinafish.cn
www.chinafishshow.org
+86-13810708871
WeChat Registration
CHINAFISH1991

FEATURE
Plastools
Plastools lines up eco-friendly
packaging for products
Italian line manufacturer Plastools has plenty of reasons to celebrate.
Not only has it begun using biodegradable packaging on its range of fishing lines, including
several new ones, it also scooped four awards at EFTTEX 2023 this summer.
Plastools has become a pioneer in its
field as well as leading the way with
eco-friendly solutions. Not only
does it make and supply around
200 different fishing line products but it uses
a wide selection of packaging made from
biodegradable materials, not to mention
plastic-free OEM yarns.
CEO Moira Dal Pozzo explained: “At the
recent EFTTEX 2023show, we launched
several new products, but most importantly
we launched – and have been the pioneers
of – BIO packaging.
“We were able to showcase many qualities
of these BIO raw materials we exhibited
such as the use of bamboo, hemp, coffee
and wood, giving our OEM monofilaments
compostable or biodegradable or biobased
packaging.
“We are the only business in the fishing
market to offer our customers fully
biodegradable packaging, thanks to our inhouse
plastic moulding department where
we can create any object in biodegradable
material with our exclusive recipes.
“In addition to BIO packaging we offer
our customers their OEM yarns which
are completely plastic free, alongside
new generation monofilaments such as
Zero Memory, High Visibility and KS
Fluorocarbon lines, which won EFTTEX
2023 Best Product awards.
16 www.tackletradeworld.com
Leading the way
Zero Memory, as you might imagine, is a
completely memory-less line that stunned
EFTTEX visitors, with little elasticity and
excellent abrasion resistance, especially at the
knot.
It’s an extruded thread with advanced
technology using three molecules, which
ensures the complete absence of memory,
super abrasion resistance and high knot
strength.
It is said to be excellent for all types
of fishing, from small fish to monsters.
Available in diameters from 0.14mm to
1.20mm and in exclusive OEM colours, it’s
specially designed to satisfy every angler in
any discipline.
High Visibility is another line with the
same Zero Memory characteristics along a
with super-visible colour for every type of
fishing that requires high visibility out of the
water.
At the same time, in the water it
disappears, like a nylon crystal. It, too, boasts
high abrasion resistance as well as high knot
strength.
Meanwhile, KS Fluorocarbon is perfect
for sea fishing since it is extremely salt
resistant, making it more than suitable for
inland waters.
This high-knot-strength fluorocarbon is
supple and not too soft, making it suitable
for all types of fishing and, above all, excellent
value for money.
Tried and trusted
Having also picked up the Best Stand award
at EFTTEX 2023, Moira is in no doubt that
Plastools is the perfect line partner for brands
and companies.
She added: “Plastools has been successfully
operating for 55 years in the manufacturing of
OEM fishing lines and our latest catalogue has
a whole lot of new items to discover, including
many monofilaments which can be customised
with your design. And don’t forget our new
BIO packaging too, helping you ‘go greener’ at
the same time!”
PLASTOOLS
www. plastools.it
PLASTOOLS FACT FILE
• 2,500 sq/m headquarters in Italy
• 100% Italian processing
• 800 sq/m nylon processing
• 800 sq/m plastic processing
• 100 sq/m ISO 2062 test office line
• 300 sq/m commercial, graphic,
accounting and management offices
• 400 sq/m unloading and loading of
goods
• 200 types of monofilaments available
• 60 types of reels and packaging

Nico, Sunseri
Pyramid Lake, Nevada
www.adamsbuiltfishing.com

SPOTLIGHT ON...
FLY TYING
SPOTLIGHT ON
FLY TYING
HAVE YOU GOT FLY MATERIALS ALL TIED UP?
Hardened anglers will tell you there is nothing like catching a fish on a fly you have
tied yourself. This skill is also a great way to save money and fill fly boxes in the off
season. But, to do so, they need access to great materials and tools.
There is no doubt that a self-tied
fly pattern – especially one that
fools fish time and again – makes
for a wonderful feeling. Indeed, for many,
it’s all part of the experience and is almost
as crucial as landing the fish itself.
At the same time, being able to tie
consistently is a brilliant way to fill fly
boxes when you can’t get out on the water
and it certainly can save these advocates
some money. Indeed, some get so good
they might even be supplying retailers!
At first glance, tying flies looks
awkward, fiddly and time-consuming and
it’s true a certain amount of practice may
be required, but the fact is that anyone
can do it and it doesn’t require a mountain
of kit.
With a simple vise – which acts as
your hook clamp and your base to begin
– scissors and some basic tools, you’re all
set to tie your own flies; all you need are a
selection of cool materials and some hook
patterns.
18 www.tackletradeworld.com

SPOTLIGHT ON...
FLY TYING
TOOLED UP
The most important tool in your fly tying armoury will be the vise,
which typically forms the foundation for anyone’s fly-tying career.
Choosing your first vise is pretty straightforward but, once you get
going, it’s likely you’ll find it will become a firm friend as you work
your way up through the features and price tags.
Key things for buyers will include including hook size compatibility,
jaw types, base types and rotary features, among others.
A bobbin or bobbin holder retains the spool of thread while you are
tying. This ensures a good grip for the best wrapping and thread tying
as well as controlling the tension. Some bobbins incorporate tension
adjusters, ceramic inserts and even disc brakes.
A dedicated fly tying pair of scissors is also useful, since they have
been designed with fine points and edges for cutting delicate material.
Some tyers will use both long- and short-bladed versions.
Another handy tool is the bodkin, which boasts several uses, such as
freeing trapped fibres, splitting thread or even making holes through
material strips.
Other specialist items needed may include a whip finishing tool, a
selection of clamps, a dubbing spinner, hair stacker and hackle pliers.
In addition, it’s also handy as a retailer to stock a supply of glues
or resins – UV, superglue and head cement – and even marker pens,
which are used to colour the tying thread on a fly’s head.
MATERIAL OPTIONS
Now we’ve covered the basic tools, it’s just
as important to stock a great and varied
selection of materials.
First, a tyer will need to select the correct
hook pattern for their needs, determined
by target species or type of fly required. As
a retailer, stocking the best quality hooks
makes sense and you can justify this by
explaining that the hook is the main contact
between fish and angler and really cannot
afford to fail.
You’ll also need to source various shapes,
colours and sizes of beads, with brass or
tungsten being the most obvious ones,
allowing for additional weight to be added
to flies. Countersunk beads are the most
popular as they bed down nicely on to most
hooks.
A range of different coloured eyes is also a
must, as is a wide selection of wire – copper,
gold, black and silver especially – for bodies
and abdomens and don’t forget lead wire for
additional weight.
Dubbing wrapped around the thread can
help create a fly’s thorax or abdomen and
you can make this easy for customers with
multiple dubbing dispensers.
Arguably the king of materials for
the discerning tyer are feathers – you’ll
undoubtedly need to source cock hackle,
coloured marabou, peacock and pheasant.
And then there are hairs like bucktail, deer
and elk hair, not to mention zonker strips
for added movement and even hare’s masks,
while chenille is perfect for quickly creating
bodies on streamers such as Woolly Buggers,
baitfish imitations and large nymphs.
Add some flash for extra sparkle and you
have most bases covered for keen fly tyers of
all abilities.
If all this seems a bit overwhelming, the
other trick would be to stock ready supplied
fly tying kits, as these will offer the most
useful tools along with basic materials such
as feathers, wires, threads and even glue.
They’re a great introduction for the
newcomer and you can always help them
upgrade their gear as time goes on and they
really get into tying – and catching on – their
own flies.
www.tackletradeworld.com
19

SPOTLIGHT ON...
FLY TYING
VENIARD
FLY TYING KITS
The 2023 anniversary edition of the top selling
Premium kit has recently been revamped, with new
sleeve, revised materials and now including the
superb quality, gold loop tool kit, it will leave any fly
tyer completely satisfied.
The top of the range Pinnacle kit includes a
comprehensive selection of both modern and
traditional materials. With vise and tools included,
there is enough in this super storage box to keep any
fly tyer happy for many an hour.
The Barry Ord Clarke Fly Tying Material Pack has
all the materials required to tie all 12 patterns in the
accompanying book. With QR code links to instruction
videos, this is the most comprehensive starter kit/
book combination available.
Any of these kits would make a great Christmas gift.
www.veniard.com
SEMPERFLI
CLASSIC WAXED THREAD
Why are fly tyers converting in their droves on to Semperfli’s Classic
Waxed Thread?
When you see the newly released colours these are real winners
to meet massive worldwide demand!
This is the highest quality waxed thread! From a huge colour
range, these new shades – burnt orange, rusty brown, watery olive
and wood duck – are described as incredible by the Semperfli team.
They offer fantastic value for money with 240 yards/220 metres
per spool, making it cheaper by the metre!
It’s easy to split, beautiful to tie with and, as it’s spooled so
perfectly, it comes off the spool perfectly too – so no tangles here!
In stock and ready for dispatch worldwide.
www.semperfli.net
HARELINE DUBBIN
MICROFLEX SOFT HACKLE CHENILLE
Hareline’s innovative Microflex Soft Hackle Chenille was meticulously crafted
to provide anglers with an exceptionally supple and pliable synthetic chenille
reminiscent of natural feathers.
This versatile material is offered in a diverse range of sizes and vibrant
colours, ensuring you have the perfect options at your disposal.
Its user-friendly nature allows for easy tying and, when folded back as you
wrap it, you’ll create irresistibly pulsating fly patterns that entice fish to strike
and hold. Just a few wraps are all it takes, much like winding a soft hackle collar.
Available to all Hareline dealers worldwide.
www.hareline.com
20 www.tackletradeworld.com

SPOTLIGHT ON...
FLY TYING
CASCADE CREST TOOLS
CHENILLE SELECTIONS
The wait is over. Tired of searching for chenille or
waiting forever for a order? Cascade Crest Tools has
acquired two modern chenille machines and they are
up and running, producing New Age, Tinsel, Mottled
Chenille and solid-coloured chenille.
Cascade Crest Tools has a full range of sizes available
and will make custom colour combinations for you. It is
also the owner and distributor for Estaz chenilles.
flytying@cascadecrest.com
DR SLICK
BLACK WIDOW SCISSOR RANGE
This wicked cool looking series revolves around the time savings and ergonomics of
a bent shaft instrument.
The loops on the super sharp razor scissors are raised and exposed, allowing the
user to simply put their fingers into the loops without having to slide them across
the bench to get them in hand or worse, dropping them on the floor!
For those who keep scissors in hand while tying, the bent shaft is more ergonomic
than a straight shaft and follows the contours of your hand. Less hand fatigue equals
more flies leaving the vise. Available in three sizes: 3.75in, 4in and 4.5in.
www.drslick.com
UNI PRODUCTS J.G. Cote Inc.
1004 Principale
Ste-Melanie, QC. Canada JOK 3AO
Tel: 450-889-8054
Toll-Free: 1-877-889-8054
Fax: 450-889-5887
Email: info@uniproducts.com
NEW FROM UNI
UNI SOFT WIRE EXTRA SMALL GAUGE # 36 0.006 INCH
UNI-PRODUCTS
MOHAIR (2-PLIES) CAMEL
UNI-Products, a world leader in the supply of spooled fly-tying
materials, announces the addition of UNI-Mohair (2-Plies)
Camel.
The mohair fibres do not absorb water. It has long fibres
and the 29 colours offered by UNI Products make it possible to
create the perfect body: Beige, Black, Brown, Camel, Charcoal,
Cream, Dark Brown, Dark Olive, Fl. Green, Fl. Orange, Fl. Red,
Fuchsia, Golden Brown, Gold, Green Highlander, Gray, Kelly
Green, Light Blue, Light Cahill, Light Gray, Maroon, Olive, Orange,
Purple, Red, Rusty Brown, Tan, White and Wine.
Making realistic dubbed bodies in a single step or combing
out a few fibres at the back to simulate a trailing shuck are just
two of the many possible uses. In addition to regular singlecolor
packaging, UNI-Mohair (2-Plies) is available in a combo
package of 20 spools.
Look to UNI-Products for the best in speciality fly-tying
materials and accessories.
www.uniproducts.com
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
Semperfli
DEALERS OFFERED
SIMPLE WAY TO BUY INTO
SEMPERFLI MATERIALS
Adding new brands or products to your retail offering is crucial for every dealer and
shop but the costs – of both stock and set up of information – can be very high. Fly tying
materials supplier Semperfli has a system designed to remove the hidden set up costs of
taking on new items.
British fly tying materials
manufacturer and supplier
Semperfli has always prided itself
on helping dealers get the most
their partnership.
It offers a range of resources through its
Onboarding program to encourage new
retail outlets as well as help existing ones
when new items are available.
This was especially important recently
when the company unveiled its biggest ever
single product launch just a few months
back.
To help further, the Yorkshire, Englandbased
supplier has now added a Shopify
export option, available directly through its
dealer log in.
The Shopify export system offers two
CSV files available for download, which
automatically add every Semperfli product
required to a dealer’s Shopify e-commerce
store.
Dealers can choose from a ‘products as
variants’ export, where each item is grouped
under a parent – for example Classic
Waxed 8/0 has all of the individual CWT
8/0 grouped under its parent – and a ‘full
products’ export, where every item appears as
a unique one in the retail store.
Every hour these export files are updated
22 www.tackletradeworld.com
automatically and are always available to
download. And, since they are CSV files,
dealers can edit and make manual changes
as required.
Since Semperfli is constantly updating the
raw data and images, using these resources
means your e-commerce site is always fully
up to date.
SMOOTHING THE BUMPS
Semperfli director Andy Kitchener explained:
“We all know that there are two big expenses
for retailers whenever they take on a new
brand – the cost of initial stock can be quite
high but the most expensive is often the
administrative costs of simply adding all
of the product data into their own EPOS
system.
“We don’t see why that should be a
barrier so, in order to help with this, we have
developed a full Shopify feed, which allows
Semperfli dealers to quickly and easily add
off the products, their images and attendant
information on to their website quickly and
easily, usually within minutes.”
He continued: “If certain products are
not relevant to your market you can remove
these manually. But remember, with our large
stocks we can get products to you rapidly
in most countries worldwide so having all
products online enables you to sell products
that you may not realise fly tyers want in your
country. We can rapidly deliver for back-toback
orders.
“We really felt it was necessary to help
reduce the huge costs for our partners taking
our products and the system includes every
item in every colour and/or size, with all the
relevant information in the correct fields, not
to mention images for their website.”
A TRUSTED PARTNER
Semperfli is considered one of the most
innovative and fastest growing fly tying
manufacturers in the world, based around
its four core values of quality, customer
service, innovation and passion.
Alongside its UK head office and
manufacturing facility in the UK,
Semperfli boasts a dedicated team with
full inventory at its US office in Idaho.
It is regularly congratulated on its
extensive stock availability and prompt
delivery service, not to mention the
quality of its materials.
You can see the Shopify feed in action
here: youtu.be/-idefySyUoc
SEMPERFLI
www.semperfli.net

STOPPIONI s.n.c. Firenze Italy
Tel.+39 0558739615 -Fax +39 0558739648 stonfo@stonfo.com
MEMBER
PRO MATCH CATAPULTS
Competition catapults with soft touch
handle. Allow maximum precision
with a minimum quantity of bait.
Equipped with elastic saving Ptfe
bushes.
MAXI CATAPULTS
Aluminium catapults with anatomic plastic handle
and soft rubber groundbait pouch.
Designed to deliver a large quantity of bait at long
distance.
Art.356 Art.357 Art.358
Art.340
Art.341
www.stonfo.com
FoundationOutdoorGroup.com

DBW...
ITALY
D O I N G B U S I N E S S W I T H . . .
ITALY
With some well-known brands, which have been at the forefront of
European fishing for decades, Italy is renowned as a major player in
the recreational angling industry while its geography lends itself to a
wide range of disciplines too.
L
akes, rivers, canals and the
sea combine to make Italy a
brilliant place to go fishing,
while a number of well-known
brands also call the country
their home.
Depending on your location,
you can target everything from
trout to carp and predators like
pike and perch in freshwater,
while sea fishing can bring you
everything from sea bass and
mackerel to grouper, barracuda
and, of course, tuna.
Freshwater anglers will
require an annual licence
(visitor or tourist licences are
also available) and must be a
member of the Federazione
Italiana della Pesca Sportiva
(www.fipsas.it), which manages
over 90 per cent of Italy’s
inland waters.
On top of the licence fee,
you will also most likely have
to buy a day ticket or similar
to go fishing and local rangers
are often the people in charge
of this.
Conversely, no licence is
required for sea fishing so
anglers are able to join a deepsea
fishing excursion or can
hire boats. It is also particularly
good news for those visiting
on vacation, as sometimes
restrictions can put them off.
With its many types
of water, it is perhaps not
surprising that Italy caters for
all sorts of angling disciplines
from light rock, deep sea
fishing off its coast, lure fishing
on its large freshwater lakes,
specimen carp and freshwater
match fishing; honed on this
abundance of water, Italy’s
24 www.tackletradeworld.com

DBW...
ITALY
match fishing team has
historically been one of the
best in the world.
Italy boasts a large number
of tackle manufacturers, who
produce rods, lures, reels,
terminal tackle and top end
fishing poles. From an import
point of view there are many
opportunities available in Italy
to source products. On the flip
side of this, the opportunity is
also there to do business the
other way.
All of the major brands
and suppliers have a strong
presence in tackle shops here,
including Shimano, Daiwa and
a number of Pure Fishing’s
portfolio of brands.
Meanwhile, many of Italy’s
domestic brands have also
done well in other European
countries, most notably
Lineaeffe, Maver, Colmic,
Stonfo, Trabucco, Molix and
Milo.
Another leading the
charge is Plastools, which
manufactures around 200
different fishing line products.
It has also recently introduced
a selection of packaging, using
biodegradable materials as well
as plastic-free OEM yarns.
Indeed, it uses raw materials
such as bamboo, hemp, coffee
or wood, and offers its OEM
monofilaments in compostable,
biodegradable or bio-based
packaging.
Meanwhile, one Italian
company – the NEXT Group
– founded by experienced
industry professionals, has
been increasing its global
presence as a designer of point
of sales and show displays, rod
and reel racks and in-store
sales projects.
A TOUR OF ITALY
As mentioned, fishing
opportunities abound in Italy,
thanks to some huge lakes in
the north, well-known rivers
www.tackletradeworld.com
25

DBW...
ITALY
Lake Garda
such as the Po and Tiber plus
the fifth longest coastline in
Europe, facing east, south
and west and covering the
Tyrrhenian, Ligurian, Ionian
and Adriatic Seas.
The lakes – such as
Maggiore, Como and Garda
– boast spectacular scenery,
crystal clear waters, a luxury
lifestyle feel plus fishing
for species including trout,
grayling, zander, pike, perch
and whitefish, with fly fishing
being the method of choice.
Head to the one of the
1,000 or so rivers and you
can do battle with everything
from chub, pike, perch and
asp to carp and catfish, not to
mention trout for fly anglers
in the more mountainous and
northern areas.
At the same time, of course,
you can enjoy the culture for
which Italy is rightly famous.
THE MARKET
Italy is home to between
two and 2.5 million anglers,
of which a majority – an
estimated 1.5 million – will
spend their time targeting
saltwater species.
Of course, the Italian
dominance in freshwater
competition fishing is well
documented and it has led to
individual champion anglers
like Roberto Trabucco and
Emilio (Milo) Colombo
founding their own very
successful tackle brands.
In terms of tackle outlets, it
is estimated there are around
1,500 tackle shops across
the country, covering pretty
much every discipline. While
there are some larger general
sport and outdoor players like
Decathlon, the big dedicated
tackle chain is known as
Paradiso del Pescatore.
There are also a number
of key organisations, who
work hard to protect an
industry said to be worth
around €2 billion. These
include FIPO (Federazione
Italiana Produttor Operatori
Articoli Pesca Sportiva) and
FIOPS (Federazione Italiana
Operatori Pesca Sportiva).
FIOPS was founded by
some of the largest Italian
fishing companies (Colmic,
Tubertini, Trabucco and
Olympus) with the aim of
grouping and coordinating
all the existing producers
and service providers traders
in the recreational angling
sector as well as individual
anglers.
FIOPS’ main aim is to
protect and promote the
sport in marine waters and
inland Italian waters while
also promoting the defence,
respect and improvement of
the environment, ecosystems
and fish fauna.
Roberto Trabucco
Milo Colombo
26 www.tackletradeworld.com

FACT FILE
Capital: Rome
Area: 301,340 sq km (116,350 sq miles)
Population: 58.85 million (2022 estimate)
Currency: EURO €
GDP: $2.169 trillion (2023 estimate)
Time Zone – CEST/GMT+1
Internet Domain - .it
International Dialling Code - +39
HOW DO THEY FISH?
MATCH FISHING, CARP FISHING, SPINNING, FEEDER,
LIGHT ROCK FISHING, BOAT AND CATFISH FISHING.
DBW...
ITALY
MAIN ITALIAN
MANUFACTURERS/WHOLESALERS
Tubertini – www.tubertini.it
Trabucco – www.trabuccofishing.com
Colmic – www.colmic.it
Lineaeffe – www.lineaeffe.it
Milo – www.milo.it
Maver – www.maver.net
Stoppioni / Stonfo – www.stonfo.com
Plastools – www.plastools.it
MAIN ITALIAN RETAILERS / CHAINS
Decathlon, Bricchi Pesca, New Airone Sport, La Mincio,
Paradiso del Pascatore
CONTACTS
FIPO – www.fipopesca.it
FIOPS – www.fiops.it
FIPSAS – www.fipsas.it
T A R G E T S P E C I E S
FRESHWATER - CARP, BARBEL, BREAM, PIKE, BASS, ZANDER, CATFISH
SALTWATER - SEA BREAM, SEA BASS, TUNA
I N D U S T R Y V I E W P O I N T
FEDERICO FERRARI, The NEXT group
Federico Ferrari is one of the
best known and best-connected
people in the Italian tackle
trade.
“I think the Italian tackle
market is worth somewhere
between 2.5 to 3 billion right
now.
“Like many countries,
following Covid-19 in 2020 and
2021, there is no doubt many
tackle companies and shops
enjoyed great results as more
anglers wanted to practise their
hobby.
“Unfortunately, in both 2022
and now 2023 we have also
been facing a not inconsiderable
recession. All of our tackle shops
are overstocked and are further
being affected by inflation due
to the turmoil in Ukraine, the
cost of energy and other factors.
“As with many sectors, not
just the fishing tackle market,
we are suffered a double-digit
decrease in turnover, in general.”
www.tackletradeworld.com
27

FEATURE
ST. CROIX’S
75 YEARS
OF SERVICE
TO ANGLERS
St. Croix Rod has been marking its 75th anniversary
throughout 2023. TTW looks back at the history of
this American manufacturer and the changes it has
gone through in the last three quarters of century.
St. Croix
Much has changed in 75
years but the hands-on
element – in this case sizing
ferrules – is still vitally
important for the company.
We’re proud of our 75
years in business and the
control we command over
our rod-manufacturing
process – handcrafting the ‘Best Rods on
Earth’ in the two most advanced fishing
rod factories in the world,” explained St.
Croix CEO, Scott Forristall.
“We’re also proud that we’ve been
owned by the same family for the last 46
of those years. Most of all, though, we’re
grateful to you – our anglers – for the
trust and confidence you’ve placed in us
to add value to your precious time and
experiences on the water.”
A LOOK BACK
Founded by brothers Bob and Bill
Johnson in 1948, St. Croix originally
made and sold landing nets. The Johnsons
soon learned how to make cane fishing
poles more portable by cutting them
into three pieces and joining them back
together with brass ferrules.
St. Croix Rod has made fishing rods in
the tiny Northwoods community of Park
Falls, Wisconsin, continuously since that
time.
When the company experienced
financial difficulties in 1960, Gordon
Schluter – a Park Falls businessman
and community leader – invested in the
company and became CEO, revitalising it
before it was subsequently sold in 1965.
Schluter then moved to New Mexico
to pursue other business opportunities. In
his absence, low-priced foreign markets
28 www.tackletradeworld.com
and higher domestic costs pushed the
company he’d worked so hard to fix
towards bankruptcy in just a decade.
At a time when he could have settled
into a comfortable retirement, he returned
to Park Falls, re-engaged with St. Croix
and eventually purchased the company,
hiring his sons Paul, Jeff, and David,
who – along with their father – saved the
company once again.
Gordon would eventually get his
retirement in the 1990s and transfer
ownership of the company to his three
sons and daughter, Pam Smylie.
The four siblings have owned St. Croix
ever since, shaping and leading the iconic,
American fishing brand that millions of
anglers have come to trust and rely upon
today. All four children have also since
retired, stepping back from the day-today
operations of St. Croix Rod, but
continuing to exercise leadership on the
company’s board of directors, along with
Pam’s husband, chairman of the board,
John Smylie.
ALWAYS MOVING FORWARD
Today, St. Croix is run by CEO Scott
Forristall, a former executive for two top
fly fishing companies. He is assisted by vice
presidents Jason Brunner, Alex Ogurek, Paul
Rybak, Steve Self and Jesse Simpkins.
St. Croix owns and operates the two
most technologically advanced fishing
rod factories in the world, one in Park
Falls, Wisconsin and a duplicate facility in
Fresnillo, Mexico.
The materials, equipment, procedures and
passions are the same at each factory. The
only difference is the 32 sets of hands that
craft each and every St. Croix rod before it
reaches each angler.
St. Croix currently offers over 800
different fishing rods, each one meticulously
engineered and painstakingly handcrafted by
passionate St. Croix team members to give
you – the anglers – the upper hand on the
water.
Scott added: “Anniversaries are fun to
celebrate, and we’re certainly proud of our 75
years in business but the future will always
remain most important. We move forward
each and every day here at St. Croix.
“We take the best moments of discovery,
learn from the rest, and move on to
tomorrow where the materials, technologies
and processes may change but the goal
remains the same: keeping anglers at the
centre of everything we do, and handcrafting
the ‘Best Rods on Earth’ that improve the
angling experience.”
ST. CROIX
www.stcroixrods.com
The materials,
equipment,
procedures
and passions
are the same
at each St.
Croix factory –
this is the Park
Falls facility.

FEATURE
KEEPING
MUCH-LOVED
FLY BRANDS
AFLOAT
When Ben Gehrke struggled to get hold of his favourite fly tying materials his quest to track
down remaining stock led him to buying the entire brand and it proved to be a stepping
stone to saving another key name too.
Ben Gehrke has always been
on or around water. Whether
working as a mariner or fly
fishing since he was a small
child, his love of water and of the great
outdoors has led him on many adventures.
But one of his most recent involved
two key names in the fly tying world –
Lagartun and RaidZap – and his efforts
to save both from disappearing forever
from the industry.
STARTING OUT
Hailing from Maple Ridge, just outside
Vancouver in Canada, Ben started his
working life as a deckhand on the tug
boats on the Fraser River and up and
down the British Columbia and USA
coastlines before gaining his captain’s
qualifications.
In his twenties he got back into
fishing and found himself working at a
tackle shop in Vancouver – talking, tying
and educating people to make the best
decisions on where they would go and
what they would use for flies, rods and
general tackle.
Ben revealed: “This eventually led me
into tying flies commercially for the shop
and some private clients. It was during
this time that I started to really grow as
an angler and a fly tyer and started to
tie Spey, Dee and some classic patterns.
I also started to use a lot of Lagartun
products and instantly fell in love with
them because, in my view, they are the
best on the market.
“Eventually, I found out that Lagartun
was no more. The doors were closed and
the rumour mill had all kinds of stories as
to why the business had disappeared.
“A friend of mine encouraged me to
contact the company directly, because I
was extremely worried that I would never
be able to use their beautiful tinsels and
other products ever again.
“I called every fly shop on the west
coast of Canada and the United States
to buy up every spool of Lagartun that I
could find – around $5,000 at the time.”
THE HAND OF FATE
But his quest ended with the remaining
partner in the business, who – having
lost her husband two years before – had
decided to finally hang up her hat.
Ben revealed: “I finally decided to make
the jump and drive down all the way to
Arizona to see her to purchase what I
thought would be a lifetime supply of
30 www.tackletradeworld.com

Ben Gehrke
FEATURE
tinsel, just for myself.
“After a 22-hour drive, I arrived early
in the morning and was asleep in my
vehicle when Marggie – the owner –
pulled up.
“She invited me inside, and I started
to look around at all the machinery, the
raw goods, the finished goods, everything
that was inside the building, and I was
extremely excited, because up to that
point I had never seen so many materials
in one place, let alone my favourite ones.
“But it was clear that the business was
still totally viable but she was not going
to be the one to do it. So we ended up
making a deal that I would purchase the
company.
“I was so nervous and excited my heart
was literally beating out of my chest and
when I called my wife to explain to her
what I had done, she was excited, but
thought that I was crazy.
“That evening I went and rented a
U-Haul trailer and spent the next five
days meticulously loading all of the
product and machines that I could carry.”
However, he was in for a surprise
when he reached the Canadian border
as he needed to produce an itinerary of
all the products he was bringing into the
country.
He recalled: “I spent the next eight
hours in the middle of the summer heat
unpacking the U-Haul trailer that I had
so carefully loaded and I had to inventory
every single item and product that was in
the truck and trailer and sort out where it
came from.
“I had had little to no sleep, had no
food and no water and, by the time that
I made it back inside with my list, one
customs guy felt pretty bad for me and,
thankfully, helped me navigate how to
import all the items into the computer
system.
“It took some time and patience on my
part, but also my family because I was
working so hard and so long hours but
eventually I did put out all the fires, sort
out all the issues and we were back at it.
“As word got out that the business
was back up and running, even after a
hiatus of about two years, most of the
distributors jumped
back on board and
started ordering
product again.”
MOVING
FORWARD
After a few years
of success, Ben
began distributing
other product lines
including Fair Flies,
Stealth, a range of
feathers, Omni spool
and RaidZap.
He continued:
“About two years ago I had a conversation
with the previous owner of RaidZap (UV
glue) and he was experiencing some issues
and he wanted to sell the business.
“After some short discussions, we struck
up a deal and now I had another company
to run.
“We took some time and found a way to
improve the formula, which I didn’t think
was possible because at that time it was the
best on the market.
“Biodegradable, environmentally friendly,
would never yellow, 100 per cent tack
free and most, importantly, it didn’t make
anybody sick. There are no harsh chemicals
in the resins that will give people chemical
burns or allergic reactions and, as yet, I
still have yet to hear of a single case of any
issues.”
When not chasing steelhead on rivers in
the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find Ben out
on the ocean and fishing the flats.
“This is the first place that I started
to use the RaidZap products, and was
so impressed with them that I started
to distribute them in my business and
eventually bought the company. There
simply is nothing like it on the market.
“We are continually evolving and always
looking at ways to improve things and, as
a result, we will be coming out with more
products after they are thoroughly tested.”
Today, both Lagartun tying materials and
RaidZap resins and bobbins are available to
Europe through Denmark’s The Fly Co, too.
BEN GEHRKE
www.raidzap.com
www.lagartun.com
www.flyco.dk
www.tackletradeworld.com
31

FEATURE
ZENAQ
ZENAQ
GUIDES YOU
TO THE LATEST
INNOVATION
Only the most innovative ideas can change the world and ZENAQ’s original guide system
brings out the fullest potential of spinning rods. While its RG guides first appeared in 2007
they continue to evolve to ensure rods will always perform at their best.
ZENAQ’s RG guide system
fully resolves the downsides of
using PE line and maximises its
benefits with perfect cast feel
and sensitivity, as well as decreased line
problems.
In 2007, the RG guide system was born
as a new guide setting concept with its
innovative form and excellent performance
and it continues to evolve.
BUTT GUIDE
With an intimate understanding of the
characteristics of PE line, Zenaq’s RG
butt guide has been chosen with a high
foot frame that perfectly positions the
ring to tame line spirals coming off the
spool instantaneously.
NARROW GUIDE SETTING
The RG guide system calls for
approximately twice as many running
guides. Due to the guides’ proximity to
one another, line shoots from one to the
next as straight as possible to minimise
air resistance, improve cast smoothness
and decrease the rate of tangles. The
narrow setting brings many more
advantages to anglers.
ASSIST GUIDE
The “Assist Guide” is placed close to the
top guide and prevents line from wrapping
around the tip perfectly. Even on windy
days, you can concentrate on fishing without
having line trouble.
PERFECT CAST
The small calibre butt guide suppresses line
34 www.tackletradeworld.com
spirals instantaneously while the narrow
setting allows PE to shoot straight through
the entire guides with absolutely minimal
friction. This system greatly decreases
resistance on the line due to strong winds
and rain.
INTUITIVE LURE ACTION
By minimising line slackness, the RG
guide system greatly improves delicacy
and precision in lure control.
Lures are now that much more
responsive to the slightest rod movements
so the angler can impart more and more
exact action to their lure with much less
effort than before.
SENSITIVITY AND POWER
The narrow setting means that there are
many guides on the rod, and those many
guides serve as many sensors. It brings better
information from underwater like movement
of fish, the lure and even the effects of tides.
The RG’s greater sensitivity is second to
none.
Due to the narrow setting, PE line very
closely follows the natural curve of the
rod when bent. As a result, more of the
blank’s power can be accessed, which allows
the angler to set the hook more resolutely
and fight fish with proper pressures while
absorbing surges that might break the line.
In addition, the RG guide system decreases
PE line troubles dramatically.
The frequent guide spacing and small ring
diameter work in unison to suppress line
oscillation even the thinnest PE lines.
On top of that, the assist guide set at the
very tip virtually eliminates all line wrapping
around the tip.
ZENAQ
www. zenaq.com

Best tinsel and
braid available
Rock hard UV glue!
Dealer inquiries welcome
E-mail: john@flyco.dk
The Fly Company – www.flyco.dk
European fly-tying and fly-fishing distributor
R
R

FEATURE
Armando Sousa and
Albino Marques with the
range of GT-Bio products.
MAKING
ECO-FRIENDLY GEAR
THE NORM IN THE
TACKLE MARKET
More and more tackle brands have started talking about being environmentally friendly as
they realise the future of the sport and the industry is in their hands. GT-Bio is one that has
been making waves in this area since its inception. We spoke to CEO Armando Sousa about
what that means for his business and the trade at large.
36 www.tackletradeworld.com

GT-Bio
FEATURE
TTW: HOW DID YOU GET INTO
LURE FISHING AND THE SUPPLY
OF INNOVATIVE FISHING TACKLE?
ARMANDO SOUSA: My journey
began very young with a genuine passion
for fishing and a deep concern for the
environment. My family have always
enjoyed fishing and my interest in fishing
with artificial lures started at a young age.
I took a decision to make my passion my
job and for more than 10 years now I have
been a distributor of several fishing brands
in the Portuguese market. Through this
experience I have gained some important
knowledge and connections. This has given
me a full understanding of how the market
operates not only in Portugal but in Europe
and across the globe.
I noticed that fishing brands haven’t
historically been particularly worried
about the environment. Despite talking
about pollution, plastic waste and the way
the world is changing, there is very little
tangible action under way to tackle the
problems.
There is an opportunity to do something
GT-Bio head
office and factory
new and different, to make a positive
impact on the environment, using leadfree
materials and eco-friendly plastics
and utilising the innovative technology we
have to produce high quality eco-friendly
solutions to angling enthusiasts worldwide.
WE SEEM TO BE HEARING MORE
AND MORE ABOUT GT-BIO. WHY
IS THIS?
Probably because the market has been
looking for a brand of this type for a while.
We put our best efforts into bringing
something new and different to our industry.
In the beginning we wanted to build a
reputation as a developer and supplier of
innovative and eco-friendly fishing products,
and as interest grew, this sparked fresh
conversations in the fishing industry and
beyond.
Our products have a significant impact,
both for their striking appearance and for
their technical attributes. They are, of course,
very effective and will catch all species!
All of our lures
originate with a
careful and wellstudied
design process
to ensure a natural action. Each product is
made with lead-free weights, with the latest
generation of eco-friendly plastics using a
new nanotechnology natural colour system.
All of this combines to create something
different, more natural, more realistic and
environmentally friendly. Fishermen test our
products and discover that this new fishing
concept is more effective and produces great
results.
WHAT MAKES GT-BIO
DIFFERENT FROM OTHER LURE
FISHING BRANDS?
GT-Bio stands out as a brand that
embraces innovation while maintaining
a strong commitment to quality and
environmental responsibility, using the
ultimate technology to produce the best
eco-friendly lure fishing products from
Portugal.
GT-Bio products offer anglers the chance
to contribute to the global action that our
world needs, using eco-friendly products.
YOU SAY YOUR PRODUCTS ARE
ECO-FRIENDLY, WHAT DOES THIS
ACTUALLY MEAN?
It means that our products are designed
to have the least possible impact on the
environment. We have achieved this by
eliminating lead in more than 90 per
cent of our lures, by using less than 20
per cent of last generation eco-friendly
plastic (without BPAs, PBTs, phthalates,
endocrine disruptors or arsenic). We also
use recycled plastic in the packaging and
natural colours with non-toxic pigments,
without any impact on the environment.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO GIVE
ANGLERS THE CHANCE TO HELP
THE ENVIRONMENT?
This is essential because their efforts
can lead to improved conservation and an
increase in sustainable fishing practices.
This can also help to promote community
education and help to to preserve fishing
traditions for the benefit of both present
and future generations.
Anglers buying the GT Bio products
can feel confident that they are
proactively preserving the environment
www.tackletradeworld.com
37

FEATURE
Injection batch before assembly
while enjoying exceptional fishing
experiences.
CAN YOU OUTLINE THE
RESEARCH YOU HAVE
UNDERTAKEN TO MAKE YOUR
LURES SO EFFECTIVE?
The development of our baits is
focused on analysing prey and predators.
We try to give our lures the most natural
presentation of the prey they imitate.
This applies to shape and colour and also
the vibrations that each prey emits.
Today’s technology allows us to
evaluate the vibrations of a prey and
compare it digitally with the vibration of
a bait, modifying the bait until it matches
the vibration of the natural prey. As a
consequence, our lures vibrate like the
original prey.
Another important part of our research
and development are the colours we use.
We study each prey in its true form and
analyse light and refraction in everyday
fishing situations. We use an innovative
nanotechnology system to create dynamic
and very natural colour schemes.
Our lure colour ranges take into
account different fields such as night
fishing or fishing in deep waters or in
bright conditions.
WE UNDERSTAND THE GT-BIO
ROLLER SHAD HAS CAUGHT MANY
RECORD SIZED FISH. WHAT DO
YOU ATTRIBUTE THIS TO?
The Roller Shad is a very special bait
created to imitate a real shad, with very
natural colours, a lead-free jig head and a
very strong hook, ready for the big fish!
The lead-free jig head is made using a
zinc alloy, which gives it a less dense and
slower presentation. This means that the
shad has more time in the strike zone.
Based on our team’s field research the
results have meant more and bigger fish.
We have many followers also recording
bigger and better catches and this
information is penetrating all platforms
of social media and angling publications.
During one of our first action videos,
38 www.tackletradeworld.com
we recorded an incredible moment.
Whilst the lure was being retrieved it was
joined by an entire shoal of the baitfish it
was designed to imitate. This was a great
testimonial that we had achieved our goal
and the first time we had witnessed this
behaviour.
It was as though the shoal was
following the lure for protection, a very
unique and satisfying moment for us and
one which demonstrates how perfect the
Roller Shad’s swimming action is.
WHERE ARE YOUR BIGGEST
MARKETS AND WHERE ARE YOU
LOOKING TO EXPLORE?
We are actively seeking opportunities
to expand and make our products fully
available in other environmentally
conscious markets around the world.
Our commitment to sustainability
and innovation drives us to explore
new regions and work towards making
a positive impact on global fishing
practices.
Our current focus lies in Europe,
where we have a wide distribution
chain implemented and we are trying
to find the right partner for some
important markets where environmental
responsibility is high. Such countries
include France, Germany and
Scandinavia, where we believe we can
have a good impact with our products.
At same time we are open to proceed
with countries in other continents –
Africa, the Americas, Oceania and Asia
are on our list.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR IDEAL
FISHING DAY…
My ideal fishing day is simple. I like
to choose a serene and untouched fishing
location, using eco-friendly gear, catching
and releasing some good fish. Ideally
this experience is shared with family and
friends for optimum enjoyment.
I try to align the joys of fishing with
GT-Bio’s core values: environmental
responsibility and sustainable practices.
It’s all about creating a harmonious
relationship with nature and contributing
to the preservation of our precious
ecosystems.
CLEARLY YOU
ARE PIONEERING
ECO-FRIENDLY
FISHING,
DO YOU
THINK OTHER
BRANDS CAN
FOLLOW?
Absolutely! GT-
Bio’s commitment to
providing innovative
and environmentally friendly products
for fishing demonstrates that sustainable
practices are not only possible but also
essential in today’s fishing world.
We encourage and welcome other
brands to join us in this journey towards
a more sustainable fishing industry. By
working together, we can collectively
make a significant positive impact on our
oceans and the entire planet. Sustainable
practices are not just beneficial for the
environment but also for the longterm
success and growth of the fishing
industry as a whole.
WHAT ARE THE PLANS FOR GT-
BIO IN THE FUTURE?
GT-Bio will continue to invest in
research and development to enhance our
existing products and create new cuttingedge
alternatives for lure fishing, reducing
the impact on marine life and habitats.
Our short-term plan is to expand
our range of eco-friendly lures and
accessories for lure fishing. Alongside
this, we have some pioneering soft lures
in development. This includes a totally
new range of soft lures for EGI and a
new range for black bass fishing.
We are also looking to produce some
plastic free hard lures and some leadfree
jigging and shore jigging lures. We
have the prototypes and should be in
a position to showcase most of these
between 2024 and 2025.
We expect to present a new rod range
for lure fishing, with our own concepts,
that have been developed over the last
two years.
In the medium term we are continuing
to develop a biodegradable soft plastic
and we expect to have the first of these
lures launching soon. It’s an exciting
time!
GT-BIO
www.gt-bio.net

100 YEARS SERVING THE FLY FISHING TRADE
Why settle for less?
TOP QUALITY FLY-TYING MATERIALS SINCE 1923
With our traditional approach to business,
straightforward family values and a real
desire to ensure customers are 100%
satisfied, 2023 sees Veniard celebrating its
100th anniversary in the fly fishing trade.
Contact us now to open your account on:
sales@veniard.com
+44 (0)208 684 2288
See our comprehensive range of fly-tying
materials and kits at
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‘Tied to Quality’ for 100 years
A GROUNDBREAKING SERIES OF GUIDES AND TOPS,
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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

FEATURE
WHY CHOOSE
CHINA FISH 2024?
We seem to have been waiting a long time but China Fish 2024 is finally on the horizon. How
and why should you get involved in one of the most important trade shows in the world?
Ever since it started way back in
1991, China Fish has witnessed
almost all the development
of the Chinese fishing tackle
industry, and has been a main path to
introduce this equipment to the world.
It’s also proved to be a great way strength
to push Chinese fishing tackle innovation
and creation.
And then, there are the CGC Show
and CGC Expo, organised by China Fish
in Weihai.
What do the buyers think of the
shows? The organisers recall an encounter
with two international buyers discussing
trade events. The elder buyer told the
other: “China Fish is a must-attend show,
the quality of exhibitors and products
are better, and there are more interesting
products to see.”
40 www.tackletradeworld.com
WHY CHOOSE CHINA FISH 2024?
Here are six key reasons to do so:
CHINA FISH IS A TRADE-ONLY
SHOW, OPEN TO REGISTERED
BUYERS NOT THE PUBLIC
Over 95 per cent of the exhibitors of
China Fish are manufacturing enterprises,
who have their own factories, and are able
to take all kinds of overseas orders. Most
of them are experienced with the overseas
market, so they know well the demands
from the buyers and market procedures.

China Fish
FEATURE
CHINA FISH 2024 IN BRIEF
• Dates: February 21st to 23rd, 2024
• Venue: New China International
Exhibition Center, Beijing, China
• Event location: Hall E1, Hall E2
• Number of exhibitors: 550
• Web: www.chinafishshow.org
• Email: Lijiang@chinafish.cn
• WeChat: CHINAFISH1991
These groups, who can speak English as
well, keep all their time and space for the
registered buyers during the show.
All products exhibited at the show are
for the international markets, for buyers
from about 80 countries and regions
around the world, who are wholesalers,
retailers, industry organisations and
online stores, all within the sport fishing
arena.
The organiser has been trying to build
China Fish as a first-class international
show for fishing tackle. So you can see a
reasonable number of exhibitors, who are
selected specially for the overseas market
in a good trade business environment
with healthy competition.
CHINA FISH BEST PRODUCT
SHOWCASE
Thanks to the innovation and creation of
associates within the trade, the Chinese
fishing tackle industry develops fast.
Each year, about 200 products regarded
as the most competitive from over 100
exhibitors are gathered together in a
dedicated area within the event. Indeed,
it’s fair to say many brands have been
planning for this showcase for quite some
time.
The Best of China Fish are voted by
all the international buyers anonymously
onsite. And the winners will be
announced at the special show banquet.
IT IS A GREAT INDUSTRY
GATHERING TO CREATE
AND STRENGTHEN YOUR
RELATIONSHIPS
Each year, there will be around 15 per
cent new exhibitors and international
buyers who join China Fish alongside
the regular ones. So at the beginning of
each year, it is the best place to make
new friends and meet old partners in the
industry.
All the winners and nominees of
the Best Product Showcase and all the
international buyers are invited to the
buffet banquet at the show to witness the
announcement and awards presentations,
which is the climax to the gathering.
SHOW SERVICES
For the convenience of buyers to visit
China Fish, the event organiser provides
visa invitation letters to those who need
to apply for a visa to China, and buyers
can book China Fish hotels at group-rate
price; some of them even provide free
airport shuttles. All buyers booking China
Fish hotels can take free show shuttles.
It also provides interpreters
for different language speaking
buyers, including Arabic,
English, French, German,
Italian, Japanese, Korean,
Spanish and more.
CHINA FISH ALL-IN-ONE
PLATFORM
For additional support to the
in-person China Fish, the
organiser has built a platform
containing 7,801 products in 22
categories from 580 companies.
Registered buyers can source
these items before the show to
make a plan for their visit, not to
mention continuing their trade
discussions after the show by viewing the
online stores, products, making inquiries,
placing an order or simply chatting to
suppliers.
The exhibitors on this platform update
their products from time to time, so
it’s recommended that you check back
regularly.
Apart from the show itself, this
platform can provide a service for the
whole year in a very cost-effective way.
HOTEL COUPONS
To thank everyone for their support of
China Fish and to celebrate the reunion
after the pandemic, China Fish will
provide hotel coupons to all the buyers
booking the official show hotels. All
buyers who have registered for China
Fish 2024 and booked its hotels will
have the chance to get the coupons. But
remember that, since the number of
rooms is limited, you should register and
book hotels as early as possible.
REGISTER FOR CHINA FISH 2024
For buyers who visited China Fish before,
simply send the attendee name(s) by
email or WeChat if there is no change to
your last registration information.
For first-time buyers, please log on to
the registration page: chinafishshow.org/
chinafish_reg
www.tackletradeworld.com
41

MAKING
CONTACT
Making Contact
1
2
Want your products to
be seen by thousands of
potential buyers… FREE
of charge? Then get in
touch, we’d love to hear
from you.
1 FLYING FISHERMAN
SAND BANK SUNGLASSES
2 DAIWA
EXCELER REELS
3
3 STONFO
ANTI TANGLE MICRO CLIPS
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.
Flying Fisherman has added two
more colourways to the Action
Angler Series Sand Bank sunglasses
frame style. These provide
generous polarised protection
from the elements in a square
wrap frame design with AcuTint
lenses that are impact and scratch
resistant, reduce glare, and block
100 per cent of UVA and UVB rays.
The colours are matte black with
green-mirror AcuTint lenses and
matte black with yellow-amber
AcuTint lenses. The polarised lens
system enhances colour contrast,
sharpens optical clarity and makes
colours appear more vivid, adding
to fishing productivity for anglers
who benefit from seeing below the
surface of the water.
www.flyingfisherman.com
Daiwa has made significant
improvements to its ultra-popular
Exceler family that offer striking
good looks, smooth performance
and a confident drag in a smartly
priced reel
These now feature an upgrade
to a Zaion V carbon fibre body,
plus an Airdrive rotor and bail,
making them lighter than their
older cousins.
Its machined aluminium
handle is a comfortable, strong
connection to the main gear of the
spinning reel while the retooled
Exceler is extremely smooth,
thanks to its five ball bearings and
one roller bearing to maximise
performance, all in a range priced
at around $100 and offered in
sizes from 1000 to 6000.
www.daiwa.us
These extremely small, anti-tangle
swivel clips are made of selflubricating
plastic material.
The fully machined accessories
are said to be ideal for either
general feeder and competition
fishing.
Lightweight and very strong,
they don’t affect the cast in any
way and are produced in two
different sizes.
www.stonfo.com
42 www.tackletradeworld.com

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…
JANUARY 2024
Ad Copy: November 17th, 2023
Mailed: December 6th, 2023
Special issue: 2024 Product Showcase
Spotlight: Boat Accessories
Doing Business With: Taiwan
FEBRUARY 2024
CHINA FISH 2024 PREVIEW
Ad Copy: December 15th, 2023
Mailed: January 3rd, 2024
Special issue: Bass Fishing
Spotlight: Reels
Doing Business With: Great Lakes
MARCH 2024
Ad Copy: January 26th, 2024
Mailed: February 14th, 2024
Special issue: Fly Fishing
Spotlight: Rods
Doing Business With: Scandinavia
To submit news or editorial for
any of these issues, contact:
To advertise or discuss a marketing campaign in any of these editions,
contact our business development team:
EDITOR
JOHN HUNTER
T: + 44 (0)7990 542958
E: john.hunter@dhpub.co.uk
NORTH AMERICA
BART MANGANIELLO
T: +1 914 722 7601
E: bartalm@optonline.net
REST of WORLD
GUIDO KNEGT
T: +39 347 503 6436
E: guido.knegt@dhpub.co.uk

FEATURE
Energofish
LEAD-FREE FEEDERS
OFFER THE SUSTAINABLE
FUTURE OF FISHING
Environmental consciousness plays a leading role in the product development processes of
Hungarian tackle manufacturer Energofish and several environmentally friendly products
have appeared in recent years, with the latest being its Go Green feeders.
Energofish prides itself on
bringing environmentally
friendly tackle to the market;
products like the lead-free Go
Green weights, shopping bags made of
non-woven material and the completely
paper-based, degradable maggot boxes.
These items help both anglers and
retailers to be more environmentally
conscious, which is one of the biggest
tasks of humanity in the 21st century.
But, of course, product development
cannot stop for a minute, because both
the needs of anglers and the rules of
commercial lakes or natural waters are
changing continuously. To meet these
expectations is the key to success in out
industry, which is why the developers at
Energofish have worked really hard this
year as well.
A GREENER METHOD
A few weeks ago, the Go Green range
was expanded with some equipment for
the fans of the probably most popular
technique – Method feeder fishing.
Different kinds of Method flat feeders
44 www.tackletradeworld.com
have arrived and all, without exception,
are made from totally lead-free materials.
These are the perfect tools for sustainable
Method feeder fishing, so retailers
and anglers, who are environmentally
conscious, can use them.
The family of Go Green Method flat
feeders currently consist of four different
elements. All of them are professional
equipment, suitable for both casual or
match anglers. These feeders are available
in various sizes, offering a “green”
alternative for all the segments of this
discipline.
The form of Go Green Method flat
feeders is modern, thoughtful and fully
planned according to the experience of
Energofish’s professional anglers; that
is why these products catch the eyes of
consumers in tackle shops and serve the
needs of anglers on the bank.
Besides the trendy shape of these
feeders, their most important element
is the weight fixed in the rear. These
weights are made from 100 per cent ecofriendly
materials, devoid of tungsten and
lead. Instead, they have been moulded
from a completely environmentally
friendly zinc alloy. In case of a breakage,
they don’t damage the environment and
provide a solution even for waters where
the use of drop-off rigs is regulated.
Taking everything into account, both
anglers and retailers must pay more and
more attention to environmental issues,
that is why, distributing and using fishing
stuff like Carp Expert Go Green Method
flat feeders is the only proper attitude to
reach sustainable fishing in the future.
ENERGOFISH
www.energofish.com

Power-Pole
ANGLERS HONOUR THE MOVE ZR
Having already won an award at ICAST 2023 for its Move ZR trolling motor,
Power-Pole has now gone one better by scooping the event’s Anglers’ Choice
Award, voted for by anglers themselves.
FEATURE
Although awards at ICAST
are voted on by the trade,
after the event the organisers,
the American Sportfishing
Association, invite consumers to decide
on their own favourite from the winners
from the New Product Showcase Best of
Category votes back in July.
With the results now in, the second
annual Anglers’ Choice Award has gone
to Power-Pole’s new trolling motor –
the Move ZR.
Robert Shamblin, vice-president,
sales and marketing, for Power-Pole,
said: “We won the Best of Category
award at ICAST for Best Motorised
Boating Accessory but this is extra
special. We couldn’t be more excited.”
ICAST draws thousands of tackle
buyers and media members each July
to the Orange County Convention
Center in Orlando, Florida for the
world’s largest sportfishing trade how.
It’s where hundreds of manufacturers
debut tackle, gear, accessories and
apparel in the highly anticipated New
Product Showcase.
The dedicated display area on the
show floor showcases hundreds of the
best of the best in new fishing product
innovation; all competing against each
other to take home one of 37 Best
of Category trophies along with the
overall Best Of Show honour. The
Power-Pole Move ZR was this year’s
winner in the Best Motorized Boating
Accessory category.
Blake Swango, ASA’s vice-president
for trade show and membership, added:
“The New Product Showcase is the
recreational fishing industry’s equivalent
of the Oscars.
“Because ICAST is a trade event and
not open to the public, we decided to
launch the
Anglers’
Choice
Award, giving everyone
with a passion for
fishing a chance to
join in the excitement
that defines ICAST.
“It’s my pleasure to
congratulate Power-Pole’s
Move ZR for winning
the second annual
Anglers’ Choice
Award.”
You can see Robert
Shamblin with the
award and discover
more about the
Move ZR
by visiting:
tinyurl.
com/46jymx8r
POWER-POLE
www. power-pole.com

THE NATIONAL FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP
(XINJIANG SHULE STATION) CONCLUDED
SUCCESSFULLY
On August 24, the 2023 "Almighty King" National
Fishing Championship (Shule Station, Xinjiang)
came to an end at Shule Impression Fishing Center.
Cui Ri won the championship with a total weight
of 2.3 kilograms, while Liu Wenxuan and Zhang
Longlong won the runner-up and third place
respectively.
Cui Ri, a second-level competitive fishing master
from Heilongjiang and the champion of this site,
said: "In today's game, because it rained in the
morning, the weather was cold, and the weather
was hot in the afternoon, which caused the air
pressure to drop, the temperature difference to
change greatly, and the fish did not open their
mouths. Like this The competition can't wait. I
finally caught the fish by fishing for grass carp.
It was my first time to come to Xinjiang. I drove
4,800 kilometers away to see the scenery of the
motherland. The people of Xinjiang are really warm
and hospitable. , I will come again next time there is
a national competition.”
Liu Wenxuan, a first-level competitive fishing
master from Gansu, won the runner-up at this site.
He said: "The weather temperature changes greatly
and the fish condition deteriorates, which is a severe
challenge for the players. I use floating, flying lead,
and bait... I tried all the methods, but the fish just
wouldn’t open its mouth, so there was nothing I
could do, but luckily, I still caught one.”
"This fishing competition has gathered many fishing
experts to enhance friendship, compete in style,
and achieve good results in fishing. It also promotes
the continuous development of Shule culture and
tourism industry." said Shi Zehua, President of the
China Fishing Sports Association, "People from
all over the country 500 fishing enthusiasts from all
over the world showed their personal competitive
level and style in the competitive arena."
The successful holding of the National Fishing
Championship is of great significance to promoting
the rapid development of national fitness in
Shule County, prospering mass cultural and
sports activities, enhancing the national physique,
improving the level of competitive fishing,
and promoting rural tourism through sports
competitions.

FISHING COMPETITION AT LONGQUAN LAKE IN
WENSU, CHINA CONCLUDED SUCCESSFULLY
On August 27, the closing ceremony of the 2023 China Wensu Longquan Lake Fishing Competition
was held in Longquan Lake Park. After two days of intense and fierce competition, Shanxi Shenju Team
won the championship with 10 points. Feida Rice Team of Wensu County, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang
and Sichuan Xiaozhiqiang Team won the runner-up and third place respectively.
This fishing competition is part of Wensu County’s comprehensive implementation of the Autonomous
Region Party Committee’s cultural enrichment project and the strategy of revitalizing Xinjiang through
tourism, promoting the integrated development of culture and tourism, adhering to the people’s
livelihood to promote high-quality development of the tourism industry, inheriting and carrying
forward China’s excellent traditional culture, and enhancing Wensu County’s An important measure
to influence the influence of Suxian County and the popularity of Longquan Lake 3A-level scenic
spot, more fully demonstrate the tourism characteristics of Wensu, promote the in-depth integrated
development of leisure fishery and cultural tourism industries, and build Wensu into a first-class and
nationally renowned leisure tourism destination in Xinjiang. great significance.

CAA AND TAOBAO JOINTLY HOST CHINA
FISHING COMPETITION
On September 12, the "China
Fishing Sports Association and
Taobao Live 2023 National
Fishing Competition " cosponsored
by CAA, Dezhou
Lingcheng District People's
Government, and Taobao was
grandly held at the Lijin Lake
Fishing Center in Lingcheng
District, Dezhou, Shandong. It
is an innovation that the China
Fishing Association, local
government, and an online
platform jointly organize the
competition. It aims to rely on the traffic superposition effect of the Taobao live broadcast platform and
form a traffic matrix for event promotion through the popularity of fishing masters and experts. While
actively promoting fishing, it will also bring attention traffic to the host area and help promote the urban
tourism industry. develop.
The China Fishing Sports Association and Taobao Live 2023 National Fishing Competition have invited
a total of 30 teams each from the Chinese Fishing Masters Team and the Chinese Fishing Masters,
together with 40 teams from the public registration, with a total of 200 members participating. They
shared millions of PV Taobao live broadcast traffic voucher incentives through the Taobao anchor APP,
and broadcast the entire game from multiple perspectives.
The competition events of this CAA&Taobao Live Broadcast 2023 National Fishing Competition are
5.4-6.3 meter hand pole team fishing mixed fish total weight competition, two games, each competition
lasts 3 hours. Lingcheng District Lijin Lake Fishing Center released more than 300,000 kilograms of
carp and crucian carp at a high density for this competition, allowing members of the participating
teams to enjoy the speed and passion of a fishing competition.
The participating teams went through two exciting and
fierce competitions in one day. In the end, the Wuhan
Keyou Qingge team surprisingly won the championship
with a total catch of 209.3 kilograms; the Shaanxi Yudao
Zhijian No. 2 team came in second with a total catch of
201.6 kilograms; and the Jia Diao Ni Wuer team caught
a total of 183.9 kilograms. Won third place. The total
amount of fish caught in this Texas Fishing Competition
once again achieved good results, with the top three
finalists catching more than 100 kilograms per person.

CHINA FISHING TACKLE INDUSTRY SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CONFERENCE HELD
On September 10, the first "China Fishing
Tackle Industry Science and Technology
Innovation Conference" series of events was
held in Weihai City, Shandong Province.
More than 160 people from nearly a hundred
companies in China's fishing tackle industry
and specially invited experts gathered at the
innovation conference to write a new chapter
in promoting the high-quality development of
China's fishing tackle industry.
Yi Xiaoli, Chairman of the China Stationery
and Sports Products Association, delivered
a speech on behalf of the organizers of the
conference and held an unveiling ceremony
for "Weihai, the Fishing Tackle Capital of China". Representatives from JD.com and Amazon shared their
speeches on the current "Big Data Analysis of Fishing Tackle Market Consumption" and "Global Demand for
Amazon Fishing Tackle Categories and Product Selection Operation Suggestions."
Professor Zhu Tianyang of Beijing University of Chemical Technology and Professor Chu Dianhui of Harbin
Institute of Technology made special reports on "China's Fishing Gear Design Trends" and "Industrial Internet
Application in the Fishing Tackle Industry" respectively.
The conference released the "Proceedings of the China Fishing Tackle Industry Science and Technology
Innovation Conference 2020-2021" and issued award certificates. Three first-prize paper representatives gave
special speeches.
The meeting emphasized that during this critical period, companies in the fishing tackle industry must more
deeply understand and implement the spirit of the country's
"Outline of Quality Power", strengthen the development
concept of quality power, focus on technological innovation
as the traction, promote industrial transformation and
upgrading, and transform from extensive, medium and low
High-end, low value-added and weak brands are moving
towards intensive, clustered, high value-added, mid-tohigh-end
and branding. In the era of global stock economy,
we strive to enhance the competitiveness and voice of my
country's fishing tackle industry, fishing tackle companies
and fishing tackle brands.

FEATURE
Last Cast
experience to not only be enjoyable but safe
too. Gone are the days where you’d wear
children’s clothes or a man’s size small, with
many brands including Patagonia and Simms
offering specific clothing and waders for
women.
ACCESSIBILITY AND FACILITIES
With the internet, accessibility to
information about fishing is vast and you can
find your nearest water or angling coach with
a few clicks of a button. Social media and the
rise in female angling influencers are really
helping to drive this change. When I first
started out, social media didn’t exist!
Facilities at fisheries now cater around
families and women, which has a great
impact on ladies taking up the sport.
LAST CAST...
WHY IS FISHING
MORE ACCESSIBLE
FOR WOMEN NOW?
It seems more women than ever are going fishing. Lucy
Bowden, a well-known UK angler and marketing executive
at key UK-based business the Farlows Group, explains why
this might be happening.
Thirty years ago, when I started
fishing, it wasn’t ‘fashionable’,
it was very much perceived as
an old man’s sport and was very
male-dominated. I very rarely saw another
female on the bank. Thankfully today this
has changed and, whilst I don’t think we’re
where we need to be, we’re certainly on the
right path.
CULTURE AND ROLE MODELS
One of the reasons I set up the Fishing For
Everyone Ladies Fishing Club in 2009 and
subsequently became an angling coach was to
try and change the perception of fishing and
introduce more ladies to it. Today, similar
to women’s football, there are many more
female role models in the sport, which in
turn is helping to change the perception of it
and inspire more ladies to think about giving
it a go.
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
Whilst women don’t need specific fishing
equipment to go fishing, they do need
clothing and waders to fit them for the
THE TACKLE INDUSTRY
I’m proud to work for a company, the
Farlows Group (owners of both the Farlows
and Sportfish brands), which is hugely
forward-thinking in its approach not only
to getting more females into fishing but also
introducing the next generation into the
sport.
We don’t just talk about it, we action it.
From working with both male and female
content providers, showcasing imagery of real
women who fish and welcoming blog articles
from females in the sport.
We’ve also just released eight Sportfish
videos fronted by me to get more ladies into
fly fishing. In addition to this, we’ve teamed
up with Country Girls UK and Women
Who Work in Fieldsports to communicate
the message that fishing is for ladies.
WHY SHOULD WOMEN TAKE UP
FISHING
Why not! There’s no reason they can’t. I’ve
always had a motto that no matter your age,
race, gender or ability, anyone can fish and
fishing is great for so many aspects of your
life, including both your mental and physical
health.
In a recent study, over 97 per cent
of Sportfish customers agreed that fly
fishing significantly improves their mental
health, with more than 98 per cent saying
it significantly improves their general
wellbeing.
Don’t underestimate the impact fishing
can have on your physical health either –
getting out by the water, into green spaces
and with nature is good for you. You can also
put some miles in!
Lastly, fishing can be very social. Many
anglers fish with their families, friends or are
part of a fishing club.
FARLOWS GROUP
www.farlows.co.uk
50 www.tackletradeworld.com

The Carp Expert Rapid PVA Rig Kit
for PVA BOMB products is available.
Partners Wanted!
Energofish Ltd. is looking for new Partners all over the World.
Free delivery on orders over €300. Click here to start your
registration and other details.
NETHERLANDS
GERMANY
SWEDEN
POLAND
FRANCE
ITALY
INFO@ENERGOFISH.COM
WWW.ENERGOFISH.COM