Tackle Trade World

SENT TO MORE THAN

18,500

TACKLE INDUSTRY

PROFESSIONALS

IN OVER

120 COUNTRIES

EVERY MONTH

JUNE 2025

COMMITTED TO INCREASING YOUR BUSINESS GLOBALLY

ATTRACTING SALES

HOW FISHING BAIT CAN

BE SO LUCRACTIVE...

PAGE 20

A LAND DOWN UNDER

WHY AUSTRALASIA IS A

STRONG MARKET FOR YOU

PAGE 30

FISHING NOW WORTH OVER

$230 BILLION IN THE USA

The sportfishing industry in the USA

now contributes $230.5 billion to the

American economy and supports more

than 1.1 million jobs nationwide.

That’s the conclusion of the latest report from

the industry body the American Sportfishing

Association (ASA), which also details how the

trade contributes around $70 billion in salaries

and wages, reinforcing its role as a vital economic

force.

Unveiling the report – called Sportfishing

In America – ASA president and CEO Glenn

Hughes said: “Recreational fishing remains

a significant driver of the US economy, as

evidenced by these latest figures.

“With over one in six Americans participating

each year, and overall spending totalling almost

$100 billion on equipment, licences, outings

and related expenses, recreational fishing

serves as an economic cornerstone for many

communities, particularly in rural and coastal

regions.”

The 2024 report includes updated economic

impact figures for each state and every

Congressional district in the country.

Conducted by Southwick Associates, a

leading outdoor economic research firm, the

study draws on data from the US Fish and

Wildlife Service’s 2022 National Survey of

Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated

Recreation. The economic impacts of angler

spending were analysed using the IMPLAN

economic modelling system from IMPLAN, Inc.

The report revealed that there were around

39,900,000 anglers in the US – with 35,100,000

enjoying freshwater and 12,700,000 taking to

the ocean – outnumbering the population of

every US state with the sport supporting more

jobs than at any US company except Walmart

and Amazon.

Two thirds of anglers were men, with the

biggest percentage of fisherfolk being 25 years

old and over. Those aged 25 to 34 and 55 to 64

each made up 17 per cent of the total, with 19 per

cent in the 35 to 44 age bracket, while 16 per cent

were aged 45 to 54 and a further 16 per cent over

65-years-old.

The report stated: “Fishing is enjoyed by

people of all ages. No one is ever too young or

old to enjoy a day on the water. The USFWS

estimated that there were over 9.5 million youth

between the ages of 6 and 15 who went fishing in

2021 (the latest data), putting total participation

in fishing at close to 50 million.

“Additionally, recent examinations of state

fishing licence records indicate many anglers will

not buy a licence every year. Anywhere from a

third to half of people who consider themselves

anglers do not fish each year for various reasons.

“Therefore, it is important to recognise there

may be many more than 39.9 million Americans

who consider themselves to be anglers,

regardless of buying a licence in any one given

year.”

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

EDITORIAL

JUNE 2025

Editor: John Hunter

+44 7990 542958

john.hunter@artichokehq.com

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.

BACKING

THE WINNER,

AS ALWAYS

WELCOME

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@artichokehq.com

A Dutchman, he spent five years travelling the world

as a scuba-diving instructor and English teacher before

settling down in Sardinia. He previously worked

for TTW from 2014 - 2017.

China: Robert Li (Li Ziwei)

+86 13451914155

robert.li365@gmail.com

Li Ziwei (Robert) has worked as news editor for over

20 years. He founded the most influential Chinese

fishing forum in the Straits and 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.

ARTICHOKE MEDIA LTD

Suites 2 & 4 Global House, Colchester, Essex, CO1 2TJ, UK

So, it’s official… the EFTTEX

rival show – run by the other

publication in the global trade

space – has been cancelled, with

EFTTEX agreeing to find space to take the

displaced exhibitors.

To be fair, a few of them were already

signed up for both shows but for the rest

who had only opted for the June one – and

my sources tell me that wasn’t many – then

they will have spent the last few weeks

trying to organise refunds for flights to and

hotels in Bratislava after the collapse of AI

Live.

As AI’s Rob Carter put it – the European

industry could never support two trade

shows in a year on the continent and

certainly not within a couple of months of

each other.

It would have been easy for me to let

sleeping dogs lie and just move on after the

announcement back in early April that the

European Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition

(EFTTEX) was to be given a free run at

2025.

I understand the need to paint a rosy

picture of the situation surrounding the

June show and its demise but I feel it’s a

little rich for the organisers to say they never

intended to compete with EFTTEX, as that

is exactly what they did.

We have known for more than a year that

EFTTEX 2025 – backed by the European

Fishing Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA)

as well as by this publication, which is the

official media partner for this year – was

going to go ahead.

So I’m not sure why it took 12 whole

months for the organisers of the other

event to decide they didn’t wish to compete

with it. They even moved their show from

September to June to ensure they were

earlier in the calendar this year.

As a result, it’s difficult to know if this is

really a “merger” of two events (as has been

claimed) or simply a rescue mission for the

defunct one.

Either way, it’s great to have ONE

unifying trade event taking place in Europe

this year, which will guarantee that all

exhibitors see plenty of buyers from across

the globe and have the opportunity to

network as well as showcase their new gear

to the largest possible audience.

TTW would like to wish every exhibitor

attending the show in mid-September in

Brussels, good luck with organising your

flights and accommodation, not to mention

finalising your booth requirements, and, of

course, a very successful show.

Don’t forget, as the official media partner

for EFTTEX 2025, TTW has some very

special advertising and editorial packages for

all exhibitors. Get in touch with any of the

team to secure your added value pack and

maximise your presence at EFTTEX 2025.

/tackletradeworld

/company/tackle-trade-world

JUNE 2025

Contents

CONTENTS

08 NEWS

EFTTEX 2025 – backed by TTW – is now the ONLY

tackle trade show taking place in Europe this

year while fly fishing giant Far Bank Enterprises

and Australian supplier Frogleys make key

appointments.

10 NEWS

Simms Fishing Products unveils a new resale

platform for used gear, BKK Hooks adds a new

marketing director while industry veterans in the

US have launched another tackle brand.

RALLIES AROUND BAN PLAN

With plans for a three-month ban on fishing

for more than 50 species off the north Florida

coast, the American Sportfishing Association’s

public affairs manager Rob Shane explains the

importance of fighting back.

14 TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR PLASTIC

How the European tackle trade is handling the

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules as it

will have an impact on anyone making or selling

fishing gear containing plastic.

16 ICAST OPENS ITS DOORS TO EDUCATION

Sportfishing’s largest trade show – ICAST – is a

gateway to increasing industry knowledge and

building real relationships with difference makers.

What can you expect this July in Florida, USA?

18 PANTHER MARTIN SCALES UP ITS OFFERING

For almost seven decades, Panther Martin has

been a trusted name among anglers and the

FishScale series, introduced in 2025, takes its

proven design to the next level.

14

19 LET AMERICAN TACKLE GUIDE YOU

American Tackle Company isa cornerstone of

the tackle industry, delivering high-quality rod

building components that empower anglers,

custom rod builders and major fishing rod

manufacturers, worldwide.

20 SPOTLIGHT ON… BAIT

Whatever your style of fishing, you need

something on the end of your hook to attract your

quarry and encourage it to bite. Whether it’s real

or artificial, bait is the business end of the sport.

24 SHOP WINDOW

What are the latest baits to hit the market and

which ones should you consider stocking? We

have a few suggestions to help you on your way

to deciding.

25 SUPPLYING TOP FLOATS FOR 25 YEARS

If you are in the hunt for the best fishing floats,

then it makes sense to trust a manufacturer who

has strong experience and a reputation for being a

reliable and trusted partner – Top Float.

26 HOW TECHNOLOGY IS CHANGING ANGLING

From the workplace to the home, digital products

and smart technology have taken over. Now, hightech

items are arriving on our banks and in boats

to boost our fishing too…

28 GLANZ: THE GIGANTIC GAME ROD

Fire your conviction and break into the ‘gigantic

game ’with oversized swimbaits, thanks to the

fully remodelled range of GLANZ rods from

Japanese rod making expert ZENAQ.

26

30 DOING BUSINESS WTH… AUSTRALASIA

Australia and New Zealand offer a wealth of

fishing opportunities for so many species in

a huge array of water while also delivering a

combined angling market worth billions.

34 LIFE-OR -DEATH TEST FOR CHINESE MARKET

For decades, the United States has been a critical

market for Chinese fishing gear exports. However,

the US-China trade war that erupted in April has

gradually closed the US market to Chinese tackle

exporters.

38 MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS FOR FREE

Marketing is essential for any business – but

it doesn’t have to break the bank. Especially in

today’s digital world, there are countless options.

40 MAKING CONTACT

We have another selection of key products that

have been recently released onto the market. Will

they be making their way onto your shelves?

25

20

06 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM

BETTER THAN A DAY IN THE OFFICE

POWERED

BY

JULY 15-18

ORLANDO, FL

Orange County Convention Center

ICASTFISHING.ORG

NEWS

EFTTEX 2025

NOW THE ONLY

SHOW IN TOWN

EFTTEX will be ONLY tackle trade show in Europe this year,

after the organisers of the rival event shelved their plans and

agreed to work alongside EFTTEX.

continued from page 3

Beyond its economic impact,

the report also highlighted the

industry’s role in conservation.

Through a federal excise

tax on fishing tackle and

motorboat fuel, along with

licence sales and charitable

contributions, the sportfishing

community contributes $2 billion

annually to angler and boater

access, fisheries conservation, and

habitat restoration efforts.

The report added: “Since the

passage of the Federal Aid in Sport

Fish Restoration Act of 1950,

anglers have paid a special federal

excise tax on fishing gear. In 1985

those taxes were expanded to

include the federal excise tax on

motorboat fuel and more.

“These funds are distributed

annually to state fish and wildlife

agencies to help fund projects and

programs that directly benefit

fish, water habitat and, ultimately,

anglers and other recreational

water enthusiasts. In 2022 alone,

the excise tax on sportfishing

equipment and fuel amounted to

over $725 million.

“Along with the $897 million

contributed by anglers through

fishing license fees and $400

million in private donations,

anglers generated over $2 billion

for fisheries conservation in 2022.”

This data is instrumental in

shaping fisheries management at

local, state, and federal levels.

As policymakers make

decisions regarding conservation

and fisheries management, it is

essential to recognise the industry’s

economic contributions and

ensure continued investment in

clean water, abundant fisheries and

access to both.

Funding for this report

was provided by a Multistate

Conservation Grant from the

US Fish and Wildlife Service and

jointly administered with the

Association of Fish and Wildlife

Agencies.

The organisers of Angling

International LIVE – which

would have taken place at the

end of June in Bratislava – have

decided not to press ahead

and have instead started work

on transferring their booked

exhibitors to EFTTEX,

scheduled for September 10th to

12th in Brussels.

Janet Doyle, owner of the

company organising EFTTEX,

said: “This is the best outcome

for the European trade and

for any businesses seeking

to connect with buyers and

suppliers in Europe. Brussels

in September is now the

only location to make your

connections in Europe in 2025.

Red Kulper heads

to Far Bank

Far Bank Enterprises, Inc, the

parent company of brands

including Sage, RIO Products,

Redington and Fly Water Travel,

has added Red Kulper as its

brand portfolio marketing

director.

Red’s duties will focus on

elevating brand identity and

shaping the customer experience

across the individual Far Bank

brands, as well as directing those

efforts toward a comprehensive

Far Bank value proposition.

US-based Far Bank CMO/CPO

Tag Kleiner said: “We are excited

to have Red in the building

and sharing his expertise and

infectious positivity. His strategic

mindset is balanced by deep

tactical marketing experience

“The fact that, between

us, EFTTEX and Angling

International LIVE have

generated so much interest

among exhibitors proves that

Europe needs a trade show

every year. Having one event in a

single location provides clarity to

everyone in the industry.

“With additional media

support from Angling

International, we now have

everything in place for a

re-energised European show

starting in just five months’

time.”

Tackle Trade World will

continue to be the official media

partner for EFTTEX 2025.

The agreement between the

and creative success – there’s

not much he hasn’t done in this

industry.

“He also understands the unique

challenges and opportunities of

managing a family of brands, and

how smart marketing and creative

efforts can simultaneously support

an individual brand as well the

larger portfolio.”

Red arrived at Far Bank after

a decade with Shimano North

America Fishing where he was

most recently the creative director,

leading marketing alongside brand

and product lifecycle promotion

for Shimano, G Loomis, PowerPro

and Jackall.

Prior to this he was the G

Loomis brand manager in charge

of all fly and conventional products

and before that he spent three

years focused exclusively on the G

Loomis fly fishing business.

In addition to also working

with Rajeff Sports where he led

marketing initiatives for ECHO,

Airflo and Air-Lock, Red also spent

time as a fisheries biologist with


Frogleys introduces

new general manager

Australian distributor Frogleys

Offshore has announced Riley

Tolmay as its new general

manager, bringing a wealth of

experience to the business.

two shows means that limited

floor space at EFTTEX in

Brussels has been allocated

to companies registered

as exhibitors at Angling

International LIVE and offered

on a first come, first served basis.

Once that floor space has been

filled, any remaining exhibitors

will be able to contract directly

with EFTTEX.

Rob Carter, co-owner of

Angling International LIVE,

added: “When we launched

Angling International LIVE,

it was never our intention to

compete with EFTTEX. We

staged the show last year when

EFTTEX dropped from the

calendar but circumstances

changed for 2025 and we found

ourselves in the undesirable

position of going head-to-head

with EFTTEX.

“But it is clearly in the

interests of the trade in Europe

that there is one event that

draws the maximum number

of exhibitors and visitors to a

single location. For 2025 we

are merging our show with

EFTTEX, which means our

Janet Doyle.

exhibitors have an even greater

opportunity to connect with

customers. They simply switch

to Brussels in September.

“There also needs to be

certainty going forward into the

future. Suppliers and buyers

need to know which show they

should attend for maximum

opportunities. From 2026,

we believe that show should

be EFTTEX – known as the

number one tackle trade show in

Europe for 40 years.”

info@efttex.com www.efttex.com

Riley has held key roles with

the renowned Powersports

manufacturer Bombardier and,

most recently, at Sea to Summit,

a leading outdoor manufacturer

based in Perth.

With his extensive industry

background and proven leadership

abilities, Riley is seen as a valuable

addition to the New South

Wales-based company, which is a

distributor of key brands including

Fuji, Gamakatsu, Atomic, Samurai,

Majorcraft, Bassday, Zip Baits and

Kershaw knives among others.

A company spokesman said: “We

are confident that his expertise will

help drive our business forward and

contribute significantly to achieving

our strategic objectives. We look

forward to his undoubtedly positive

impact on our organisation.”

Riley can be contacted via

rileyt@frogleysoffshore.com.au

the Oregon Department for Fish

and Wildlife.

Red added: “I have lived and

breathed fly fishing my entire life,

but over the last dozen years it’s

transitioned from personal passion

to professional calling.

“To be part of the Far Bank

family and to represent elite

brands and work with incredible

folks who share my same level

of enthusiasm and commitment

is a humbling experience. I look

forward to strengthening our

individual brand identities and

growing them together into

something greater than the sum

their parts.”

www.farbank.com

WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 09

NEWS

SIMMS UNVEILS RESALE

MARKETPLACE FOR GEAR

LONGEVITY

A good piece of gear should never retire early, which is why

Simms Fishing is launching Simms Recast, a resale platform

that helps anglers buy and sell pre-owned Simms outerwear,

boots, packs and more.

Whether it’s a weatherproof

piece of outerwear with seasons

left in it or a pack ready for its

next adventure, Recast keeps

Simms gear in action thanks to

the marketplace, powered by

Archive.

Ben Christensen, head of

Simms, said: “Simms Recast is

more than just a resale platform

– it’s about fostering a stronger

connection within the angling

community and ensuring our

gear stays in use for as long as

possible.

“By making our products

more accessible through resale,

we’re expanding our reach and

welcoming new anglers into the

Simms family, all while staying

true to our commitment to

quality and conservation.”

At launch, Simms Recast

operates as a peer-to-peer

marketplace, where anglers can

list their own used Simms gear

and sell directly to others. Down

the line, Simms will introduce a

Managed Resale model, offering

an even more seamless way for

customers to buy and sell preowned

gear.

As one of the first fishing

brands to embrace resale, Simms

BKK hooks director

of marketing

Global hook brand BKK has welcomed Casey Yoern as its new director of

marketing to help the brand continue to grow.

Established in 1856. BKK employs

over 800 people today in

factories and offices in the US,

Japan and Shanghai and says

this appointment will help it

reach even more buyers.

Mike Sullivan, BKK’s president

of sales and marketing,

said: “With over a decade

of experience in marketing,

social media management and

photography/videography, Casey

brings a wealth of expertise that

will be instrumental in driving our

brand forward.”

Previously, Casey served as the

marketing specialist/photographer

at Daiwa Corporation, where he

spearheaded digital marketing

campaigns, managed product

says it is pioneering circularity in

the angling world – reinforcing

its long-standing commitment

to product longevity and

sustainability. Simms Recast

extends the brand’s repair and

warranty programs, giving

anglers a trusted place to keep

great gear in play while making

high-quality products more

accessible.

Emily Gittins, co-founder and

CEO of Archive, added: “Resale

is a natural fit for Simms, a

brand built on quality and gear

that’s made to last. With Recast,

Simms is not only opening

up its products to a broader

community of anglers but also

reinforcing its commitment to

keep great gear going.

“We’re thrilled to power this

program and help Simms bring

circularity to the fishing world in

a way that feels authentic to its

brand and customers.”

Simms Recast is part of the

brand’s 2026 vision: “What

is the Future of Fishing?” – a

commitment to sustainability,

innovation and a stronger

fishing community; whether

you’re an experienced angler

looking to offload gear or a

newcomer just getting into

fishing.

www.recast.simmsfishing.com

launches and oversaw catalogue

creation for an extensive line up of

over 2,000 SKUs.

His leadership in social media

strategy helped grow the brand’s

audience to over 500,000

followers, and his hands-on

approach to content production

ensured a strong, cohesive brand

identity, explained Mike.

He added: “We are confident

that Casey’s passion, creativity, and

Boating

group’s big

impact

The European Boating Industry

(EBI) – the trade’s own organisation

– is celebrating after scooping the

‘Impact’ category at the European

Association Awards 2025.

At the ceremony took place in

Brussels, EBI was recognized for

its pioneering Blue Boat Horizon

project, which aims at promoting

sustainability based on Life Cycle

Assessment in the recreational

boating sector.

Organised by the European

Society of Association Executives

(ESAE), the awards celebrate

excellence within the association

community, wit winners chosen

by a jury of leading association

professionals.

EBI was nominated in two of

the four award categories: Event

Innovation – together with boot

Düsseldorf for the Blue Innovation

Dock – and Impact.

The latter acknowledges

initiatives that have made

significant contributions to society,

aligning with the Summit’s 2025

theme, “Association Excellence in a

Shifting Society”.

Blue Boat Horizon is the biggest

project in EBI’s history and an

ambitious industry collaboration,

bringing together key players to

develop a common approach

to improving environmental

performance.

EBI secretary-general Philip

Easthill said: “Blue Boat Horizon

exemplifies our dedication to

environmental stewardship based

on a strong business case and our

proactive approach to addressing

the challenges of a shifting

society.”

strategic mindset will help elevate

BKK Tackle Innovation USA to new

heights.”

Beyond his work at Daiwa,

Casey has 15-plus years of social

media management experience

and over eight years of freelance

photography and videography

work, collaborating with brands

across multiple industries.

www.bkkhooks-americas.com


Brand launch is

anything but standard

1Standard Fishing is a just-launched premium tackle brand founded

by industry veterans with over 20 years of experience designing

high-performance products.

The Michigan, USA-based

company debuts with a focused

collection of meticulously

engineered crappie fishing tackle

that combines innovative design

with precision manufacturing.

1Standard’s inaugural product

line features five signature

offerings designed to meet the

highest standards.

The soft plastic Minnow1 is

available in 2in and 2.75in lengths

and boasts a revolutionary

vertical tail design with a unique

Action Hinge and precision Motion

Slots, creating lifelike movement

with minimal rod action.

The Minnow4 hand-tied,

premium hair jig features a realistic

dorsal fin head design, moulded

eyes and high-quality components

built to withstand multiple catches.

An innovative jig head with

dual line ties, the Stacker Head

allows anglers to fish two lures

simultaneously, effectively doubling

their chances of success.

Meanwhile, the Bait Head is

said to be a versatile jig head with

a tapered bullet shape that runs

true with any plastic combination,

ideal for casting, vertical jigging or

forward-facing sonar techniques.

Featuring a revolutionary

spring wire keeper that holds

plastics firmly in place during

dock shooting, the Dock Shooter

Head is paired with a strong

O’Shaughnessy hook for pulling big

slabs from tight spaces.

1Standard Fishing pro angler

Jeremy Lawyer said: “Our

products are designed and built

to one standard – helping anglers

catch more fish. We’ve created

tackle with unrivalled designs, the

best components, and precision

manufacturing to deliver

products of the highest standard

for crappie anglers.”

The company also offers

a selection of apparel and

accessories featuring unique

designs that reflect the crappie

fishing lifestyle.

www.1standardfishing.com

FEATURE

INDUSTRY RALLIES AGAINST

PROPOSED BOTTOM FISHING CLOSURE

With proposals announced for a three-month ban on fishing for more than 50 species

off the north Florida coast, the American Sportfishing Association’s public affairs

manager Rob Shane explains why the industry is fighting back.

ASAFISHING

Earlier this year, the National Oceanic

and Atmospheric Administration

(NOAA) proposed a three-month

closure for 55 species of reef fish off

the northeast coast of Florida.

The proposal, known as Amendment

59 to the Fishery Management Plan for

the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South

Atlantic, would prohibit bottom fishing for

snappers, groupers, jacks, sea bass, tilefish

and a bevy of other fish from December

through February each year from the Florida/

Georgia border down to Southern Brevard

County.

Amendment 59 was proposed with the

goal of limiting interactions with red snapper

in the South Atlantic. The problem is that

both fisheries managers and anglers agree

that red snapper populations are more robust

thanat any time in recent history.

Instead of closing the fishery, we should

be celebrating the successful recovery of red

snapper and rewarding anglers, who’ve borne

the brunt of the rebuilding process, with

expanded access.

The second flaw in Amendment 59 is that

the recommendation is based on notoriously

unreliable data from the Marine Recreational

Information Program, which NOAA

estimates to be off by 30-40 per cent.

NOAA itself recognised this data as

unsuitable for management use but in

choosing to move forward anyway the agency

is placing the nation’s strongest fishing

economy in danger.

The importance of the fishery

Known as the sportfishing capital of the

world, more than five million anglers take

to the water in Florida each year, spending

$10.7 billion on fishing-related expenses.

As such, it is one of the most important

markets for manufacturers of fishing tackle,

marine electronics, apparel and accessories.

Recognising this value, 76 companies from

across the industry and around the US signed

a joint letter to Secretary of Commerce

Howard Lutnick urging NOAA to withdraw

the large area closures within Amendment

59.

The broad geographic and product range

of these companies is a testament to the

extent of the damage this Amendment

will cause. There’s also concern that if the

Amendment goes through, similar closures

may be introduced in different regions.

NOAA is currently reviewing public input

on the proposal and we expect to hear a final

decision this summer. We are optimistic that

new leadership at NOAA and the White

House will do what’s right by anglers and the

industry and preserve access to one of our

nation’s most important fisheries.

Congress is also moving to protect access.

The Bipartisan Red Snapper Act has been

introduced by members of the Florida

delegation in both chambers.

If passed, this bill would prohibit NOAA

from making sweeping management

decisions until the South Atlantic Great Red

Snapper Count, an independent assessment

of the stock, is completed later this year.

You can read the full letter and learn more about

Amendment 59 at www.asafishing.org/protectbottomfishing-access


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FEATURE

EFTTA

TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR

PLASTIC IN FISHING TACKLE

There’s been a lot of talk about Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and how it

affects fishing gear containing plastic. Jan Kappel, the European Fishing Tackle Trade

Association’s lobbyist, explains how some countries are already tackling the issue.

Since January 1st this year all 27 EU

member states should have set up

Extended Producer Responsibility

(EPR) schemes for fishing gear

containing plastic.

This is required by the European Union’s

Single-Use Plastics Directive, which was

adopted back in 2019, although EFTTA

lobbied hard to avoid the banning of fishing

lines made from plastics.

Since that adoption, we have urged

EFTTA members to make contact with

their national authorities to ensure they

influence their national Extended Producer

Responsibility (EPR) schemes.

As a result, companies selling fishing gear

on the European Union market or online

must take responsibility for waste collection,

recycling and raising awareness about proper

disposal.

For now, EFTTA assume sthe directive

concerns both sea- and freshwater

recreational fishing gear even though the

Directive’s Article 3(4) reads: “‘fishing gear’

means any item or piece of equipment that

is used in fishing or aquaculture to target,

capture or rear marine biological resources

or that is floating on the sea surface and is

deployed with the objective of attracting and

capturing or of rearing such marine biological

resources.”

For better or worse, the Directive does

not operate with a harmonised EPR scheme;

each EU country can set up their own unique

EPR scheme. Later this year, EFTTA will be

working to understand which countries have

such schemes in place already but recent

examples include…

Sweden

The Swedish EPR scheme is run

by Fiskekretsen AB. Producers/sellers pay

an annual fee of SEK 6,000 (€520) and

10SEK (€0.87) per kg of plastic placed on the

market.

Swedish legislation makes it obligatory

for tackle trade companies that are subject to

EPR to be a member of Fiskekretsen AB. If

they refuse, they will be fined SEK 20,000

(€1,743), with that doubling to SEK 40,000

and so on until the situation is remedied.

Denmark

In Denmark, businesses covered by the

Producer Responsibility for Fishing Gear

Containing Plastic must register with the

digital producer register (Danish Producer

Responsibility) and make the mandatory

reports required by the register.

This is done through Fiskeriretur, which

serves as the Producer Responsibility

Organisation (PRO) in Denmark.

Businesses ae encouraged “to manage

waste responsibly, including ensuring

collection and materials for national

collection, and that as much as possible

is reused, recycled or disposed of in an

environmentally sound manner.”

The first report of fishing gear placed on

the market in 2024 was due on March 31st,

2025. Reporting will occur annually on

that date.

United Kingdom

The Directive’s strong emphasis on marine

fishing is due to the way commercial fishing is

conducted (mainly at sea). Collection stations

for trashed commercial fishing nets and trawls

are placed in a few harbours.

But collection of trashed recreational

fishing gear requires many more collection

points than a few harbours.

The UK’s Anglers National Line Recycling

Scheme (ANLRS) operates with three types

of collection spots:

• Tackle Shop Recycling Bins – tackle shops

have a bin where anglers can deposit waste

line.

• Fishery Recycling Points – placed at fishing

venues so anglers can deposit waste line

whilst fishing.

• Coastal Bins – sited at numerous popular

sea fishing venues and beaches.

www.eftta.com


FEATURE

ICAST

ICAST OPENS DOORS TO INDUSTRY

EDUCATION, NETWORKING AND

SHOW SPECIALS

Sportfishing’s largest trade show – ICAST – is a gateway to increasing industry

knowledge and building real relationships with difference makers.

What can you expect this July in Florida, USA?

As the sun rises over Orlando’s

Orange County Convention Center,

a tangible sense of anticipation fills

the air. It’s Super Tuesday at ICAST,

and The On The Water Demo Day is about to

begin.

Spanning five acres of water and green space

outside the main show floor, this Demo Day is

a haven for buyers eager to field test the latest

innovations in fishing gear.

By 9am, the shoreline buzzes with activity.

Kayaks and paddle boards hit the water. A skiff

loaded with new marine electronics patrols the

pond. Quivers of rods and reels unfurl beside

tents brimming with product demos. Blanketed

by misting fans and the shade of a pop-up tent

village of full exhibitors, Demo Day attendees

become the first to get their hands on products

at the largest trade show in sportfishing.

Garmin regional sales manager Danny

Thompson has been attending ICAST On the

Water Demo Day since its inception in 2018.

Each year, Thompson says he meets retailers

and media members from surprising corners

of the globe. “Out here, we are able to actually

show people products instead of just talk about

them. That’s when you see the lightbulb go off.”

Typically, Thompson can be found patrolling

the backroads and highways of America’s

Midwest, where he manages regional sales of

marine electronics with an emphasis on ice

fishing.

And, while Florida may seem like an unusual

place to showcase ice fishing gear, Thompson

says his experiences at ICAST have helped him

network with tackle dealers from around the

globe.

Raising the bar

This year, buyer registration for ICAST is

20 per cent higher than 2024. And show

organisers say exhibitor space is nearing a

sellout.

“ICAST delivers incredible value for

retailers,” said American Sportfishing

Association vice-president of communications

Mary Beth Long, who notes retailer registration

is currently 20 per cent ahead of last year’s pace.

“From education to networking and, of

course, legendary show floor deals, we’ve

designed the show to cater specifically to

independent tackle dealers who want to grow

their business.”

Last year, nearly 14,000 attendees convened

at ICAST, where a 44,000sq m show floor

overflowed with fishing manufacturers,

distributors, media members and retailers

representing 75 nations.

Inside, buyers took advantage of show

floor specials ranging from free shipping to

deep discounts on bulk orders – all with the

opportunity to shake hands with manufacturers

and cut through the clutter of email inboxes to

build real relationships.

Learning curve

This year, the show is looking to build steam

by incorporating more breakout events and an

expanded education series that will help the

industry navigate a complex economic world.

While On the Water Demo Day is set to

return for its seventh season, the popular Lunch

& Learn Seminar series will enjoy an expanded

show space where free, daily talks on market

trends, economics, consumer insights and

the latest marketing technologies available to

dealers will be dished out.

Elsewhere in Ccentral Florida, the ICAST

Cup is joined by a revitalised Lunkers &

Bunkers charity golf scramble –one of the

premier networking events in all of sportfishing.

There, attendees have the unique opportunity

to pair golf with fishing by trading casts and tee

times on one of Florida’s legendary fairways.

Registration for ICAST 2025, set for July 15th

to 18th is open now at ICASTFishing.org

Qualified attendees can come early for Super

Tuesday and the Lunkers & Bunkers charity

golf scramble. Download the official ICAST

smartphone app to stay up-to-date on daily

events in Orlando on both iOS and Android

and register now at ICASTFishing.org .

www.icastfishing.org


FEATURE

PANTHER MARTIN

CATCH MORE FISH WITH

PANTHER MARTIN

FISHSCALE SPINNERS

When it comes to fishing lures, Panther Martin’s newly launched FishScale Spinners

stand out as some of the best in the game.

For almost seven decades, Panther

Martin has been a trusted name among

anglers, and the FishScale series,

introduced in 2025, takes its proven

design to the next level.

Whether you’re targeting trout, bass or

even larger species like pike and walleye, these

spinners deliver unmatched performance,

realism and reliability.

A shining example

What really makes the FishScale spinners shine

– literally and figuratively – is the FishScale

reflective finish.

The realistic scale pattern, applied using a

special airbrush technique and stencil, creates

a smooth, lifelike appearance on the classic

Panther Martin convex/concave blades and

teardrop bodies.

The ombré colouring enhances the allure

with subtle shades on both the blades and

bodies, making the lure even more enticing

to fish.

Better by design

Then there’s the blade design – a convex/

concave shape that produces Panther Martin’s

signature thump and spin. The vibration and

sound created by the spinning blade are crucial

underwater cues that fish rely on to detect prey.

This lure creates a strong vibration trail that

can be picked up by fish from a distance, making

it incredibly effective even in deeper or murkier

waters.

Another reason these spinners are top tier

is their ease of use. Anglers of all experience

levels can simply cast and retrieve – no special

technique needed. The inline design ensures

the spinner runs straight and true without line

twist, while the weighted body allows for long,

precise casts, helping you reach those out-ofthe-way

fish-holding spots.

Success assured

Perhaps most importantly, these spinners

consistently catch fish. Anglers around the

world praise them not just for their look and

feel, but for the results they deliver.

From weekend warriors to tournament pros,

everyone appreciates a lure that works – and the

Panther Martin FishScale Spinner does exactly

that.

They are available in five dynamic colour

patterns (Brown, Blue, Green, Purple and

Orange), in three of the most popular sizes

(21/16 oz, 41/8 oz and 6¼ oz), and two hook

styles (treble and single).

See the full Panther Martin line, including the

exciting new line up for 2026, at ICAST. Visit

booth 4202.

www.panthermartin.com


FEATURE

AMERICAN TACKLE COMPANY

LET

AMERICAN TACKLE

GUIDE YOU

For nearly four decades, American Tackle Company

has been a cornerstone of the fishing tackle industry,

delivering high-quality rod building components that

empower anglers, custom rod builders and major fishing

rod manufacturers, worldwide.

American Tackle emerged from

a passion for fishing and a

commitment to enhancing rod

performance through innovative

design.

From its early days supplying small rod

building shops to its current status as a

global leader in rod component design

and manufacturing, American Tackle has

consistently pushed boundaries, winning

countless industry awards, and earning a

reputation for durability, variety and cuttingedge

technology.

With a focus on freshwater, saltwater

and fly-fishing applications, the company’s

extensive product line – spanning reel seats,

handle grips and rod guides – has made it

a trusted name among manufacturers and

hobbyists alike.

Performance guides for any

application

At the heart of ATC’s offerings is its diverse

portfolio of rod guides, each engineered for

specific applications and focused on optimising

line control, reducing line wear and enhancing

casting performance. All while providing for a

lifetime of performance fishing for the angler.

TiForged & TiForged Air

Whether single- or double-foot, tip-top or

running guide, the TiForged and TiForged

Air lineup cover a wide variety of casting and

spinning applications with simple, lightweight

designs that manufacturers prefer. TiForged

guides offer a variety of hardened stainlesssteel

frame options with Duralite or Nanolite

rings for incredibly low friction coefficient.

The TiForged Air line of guides have taken

the industry by storm and feature a snagless,

stainless steel frame and ring, providing

smooth line transition and lightweight

durability.

LZR

Ultra-thin and super light, the LZR line of rod

guides feature zirconia insert rings, bringing

increased durability for braid as well as

enhanced heat dissipation.

LZR guides are available in Black,

Gunsmoke and Polished Stainless Steel frames

for casting and spinning rods.

MicroWave Line Control System

A revolutionary design that has brought

American Tackle multiple rod component

awards, MicroWave guides harness the line’s

energy to direct it efficiently and effectively

toward the target, making for accurate casting

with significantly less effort.

Whether casting or spinning, MicroWave

guides stand out on the water and in the

showroom with their unique and technologyforward

design.

SSR

American Tackle’s workhorse line, SSR

rod guides, are the perfect combination of

durability, value, and performance.

Whether building rods for ice or for heavy

bass, the wide variety of SSR guide options

provides rugged, minimal design, with

stainless frames and double-swaged stainless

steel inserts for a lighter and dependable

guide with limited friction for monofilament,

fluorocarbon or braid.

Virtus

For heavier applications, the Virtus line of

rod guides features added bracing in a unique

frame that combats lateral torque and can take

on most any on-the-water battle.

Virtus guides also feature patented

RingLock technology, ensuring a more stable

connection between frame and insert, giving

anglers the edge to outlast and outperform

competitors.

But Wait, There’s More…

We have only touched the surface of

everything that American Tackle has to offer.

To learn about the complete family of

American Tackle rod guide lines for freshwater,

saltwater, fly, and ice fishing rods, including

Delta, Salvo and more, hit the links below...

www.sales@fog-usa.com www.americantackle.us


SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT ON BAIT

Whatever your style of fishing, you need something

on the end of your hook to attract your quarry and

encourage it to bite. Whether it’s real or artificial, bait is

the business end of the sport.

Naturally, what you offer will largely depend

on your customer base, the available waters

and target species and so on. So knowing your

local market is crucial.

Let’s take a look at some of the key baits and

how you might make them work in your retail

space…

Leaving aside hard-bodied lures and flies

– which it could be argued are also baits

in their own right – this feature will be

concentrating on edible baits as well

as a handful of artificials that are specifically

designed to mimic their digestible cousins.

The term natural baits covers everything

from worms and maggots to shrimp plus

live, dead and cut baits, not to mention fruits

or berries plus nuts and seeds – hemp, for

example – and pulses like sweetcorn.

Processed baits would include groundbait

and chum, pellets, the ubiquitous boilies,

paste baits and even bread, while a number of

artificials are designed to look like bread, corn,

maggots or worms, fooling the fish without the

need for any special preparation or simplyused

to keep the bait on the hook more easily.

And don’t discount the additives and

attractants which can be used to give your baits

an extra boost – these can deliver amino acids

and feeding triggers, additional flavours and

even colour to your bait choice.

Whatever your skill level, selecting the right

bait is crucial for success. Different species

respond to different baits while environmental

factors such as water temperature, clarity

and depth also play a key role in the selection

process.

Bait is the ultimate consumable, which

is what makes it such a great item to stock.

Anglers buy it and pop it on the hook, while

some even throw large quantities into their

chosen fishing spot – whether before, during or

after their session.

If they enjoy some success using that bait,

the chances are they will buy more next time –

leaving you with a high turnover product and

the task of keeping those shelves full.

All natural options

The range of ‘natural’ baits is extremely diverse.

Perhaps the most obvious – and among the

most popular – are worms and other crawling

baits, which can be hooked directly.

They can be bought in from specialist

suppliers, most often in their own tubs or

packaging, and the same goes for many other

insects such as crickets.

However, if you plan on selling maggots

– still common in Europe – then this onsite

process is much harder work, requiring


BAITS

attention each day to keep them alive, fed and

in good condition, riddling off dead ones and

casters each day.

Once your casters are riddled off – or if you

are selling worms and similar baits – you’ll

need a decent fridge to keep them cool, while a

freezer is a must if you intend to offer items like

deadbaits or frozen shrimp.

There are plenty of brands which offer prepacked

– and pre-prepared – baits like nuts,

seeds and other particles, which means it’s

super simple to stock and sell these.

While supermarkets may well be the first call

for items like sweetcorn, there are also fishing

brands which offer flavoured and coloured

versions; these are often larger in size for easier

hooking, too.

Anglers may also like to use either live baits

– minnows, small roach, crabs and the like –

for predators like pike and zander or walleye

not to mention bass – or cut baits like shad,

herring or mackerel, which are just as effective

in freshwater for catfish as out at sea targeting

sharks, for instance.

These are especially effective fished

alongside chum – a fish or meat-based

groundbait – where the dispersing oils and

scents create a flavour trail for predators to

home in on.

All part of the process

Groundbait is also popular as an attractant

with freshwater anglers to entice fish into your

swim where they will hopefully discover and

eat your hookbait.

This is just one of many processed baits

available. In its simplest form, groundbait

can just be crumbed up dry bread but fishing

brands add this to more expensive blended

ingredients, using it as a carrier for flavours

and additives.

While some are designed to be balled up and

thrown into the swim, others can be moulded

around weights for the Method or placed into

feeders to be cast to the required spot.

Boilies are one of the biggest selling bait

lines across the UK and mainland Europe,

as they are easy to use and come in so many

flavour and colour options. They also take

additional flavourings from attractants very

well, boosting their appeal to fish even more.

Once used almost exclusively by carp

fishermen, it didn’t take long for anglers to

realise that they also worked for other species

and today specialist offerings for catfish, barbel

and ’silver’ fish are also on the market.

Similarly, pellets have crossed over from

carp fishing to mainstream angling. Initially

used in aquaculture as a cheap and easy way to

feed large quantities of fish in farms, several

manufacturers began offering them to the

wider angling brands, who took them and

added their own unique twists.

They are simple to use as both feed

(thrown in or wet and moulded around

a feeder) and hook bait, with a myriad of

flavours, colours, styles and sizes available.

Another benefit of these hard baits are

additional items of terminal tackle like pellet

banders, needles and drills, PVA bags, spods

and so much more – another profitable

addition to your store.

Keeping your shelves stocked with some

of these – depending on your region – not

to mention the wide range of flavoured or

attractant powders, liquids, gels or sprays is a

great way to boost profits.


SPOTLIGHT

Artificials

These sector covers a wide range and you could

argue that lures and flies fall into this category

but in this instance the term will apply to items

such as items designed to mimic fish eggs,

corn, maggots, bread and even cut baits.

They are easy to use and are usually enticingly

packaged and are popular with anglers who like

tom get fishing at a moment’s notice and don’t

have time to pop by their local store en route.

Bait selection

For the angler, choosing the right bait comes

down to the species, conditions, water being

fished and season as well as the personal

preference of each angler or recommendations

from their pals.

Using baits that either are or closely

resemble the natural prey of the fish in the area

is always a good starting point.

Consider the clarity of the water too – in

clear water, use natural-coloured baits; in

murky water, go for brightly coloured options.

Fish feeding habits change with the seasons.

For example, in spring, fish are more active

and may be happy to chase a live bait, while

in winter, slower-moving or static baits may

prove effective. Smaller baits and less loos feed

is often the key to success in winter, too.

Whatever happens, experimenting with

different baits is always worth trying. If one

type isn’t working, try switching to another

until you find what the fish are biting. Change

scents, sizes, colours and hardness of baits, too.

Market trends

The rise of online shopping has transformed

the way fishing bait is sold. Digital platforms

allow anglers to purchase bait directly from

manufacturers or niche retailers, expanding

their access to unique and high-quality

products beyond their local stores.

Although, for many ‘live’ baits like maggots,

a store visit is still required but worms and

other items can be bought online while boilies,

pellets and attractants have a long shelf-life so

ordering for delivery is not an issue.

The sustainability of bait sources is also

growing concern. Overharvesting of live bait

species, such as minnows, herring, mackerel

and worms, can disrupt local ecosystems, too.

Equally, new fishing techniques or simply

the desire to be more competitive, has given

rise to a wider range of baits and additives or

attractants, reducing the reliance on traditional

bait. Some anglers are shifting towards

artificials which eliminate the need for live bait

altogether.

The fishing bait market is expected to

grow steadily in the coming years, driven by

technological advancements and the increasing

popularity of the sport. The demand for ecofriendly

bait options will likely continue to

rise as environmental consciousness spreads

across the fishing community. Manufacturers

that innovate while aligning with sustainability

goals will have a competitive edge.

Furthermore, digitalisation will reshape how

bait is marketed and sold. Subscription-based

bait services are set to redefine the fishing

experience.

Whether catering to weekend anglers or

commercial fishing enterprises, the market’s

adaptability ensures its continued growth in

the years to come.


SHOP WINDOW

BAIT

2

1

2

3

3

4

4

1 FISHBITES

EZ-BAITS MULLET SCENT

Launching in 2025 – and marking

the brand’s 25th anniversary – is

Fishbites’ latest addition to its E-Z

Baits and E-Z Pro line up, a mullet

scent to go alongside its shrimp,

crab and squid scents.

Both the E-Z Baits and E-Z

Pro mullet options are made

with the Longer Lasting formula,

which provides extra durability for

extended periods of time.

These baits also feature a cloth

binder in the middle of the bait that

keeps it on the hook despite the

efforts of notoriously toothy bait

stealers.

www.fishbites.com

2 BIOSOURCE BAITS

IMPULSE PELLETS

BioSource Baits, known for its range

of amino acid-based fish feeding

stimulants, has introduced a line of

6mm and 2.3mm Impulse treated

pellets.

Designed for use by both

specimen and match anglers, these

products provide customers with

a pair of new easy to use ‘out of the

bag’ baits.

Like all of the BioSource

Baits’ existing range of more

concentrated liquid, gel and paste

Impulse products, they have been

scientifically proven to better than

double anglers’ catch rates.

Trade enquiries are welcome.

www.biosourcebaits.com

3 CC MOORE

ZIG HOOKBAITS

These purpose-made 8mm x

12mm zig hookbaits are the perfect

option for anglers who want

to benefit from the legendary

attraction properties of the UK

manufacturer’s famous Norther

Special NS1 flavour blend when zig

fishing.

Made with its well-known NS1

citrus-fruit flavour blend, they are

supplied in pots of 100, mixed red,

yellow and black hookbaits. They

are ideal for use in zig aligners and

on zig screws.

ccmoore.com

4DYNAMITE BAITS

FRENZIED MAIZE FEEDER JARS

Feeding maize and fishing with

a small stack on a hair rig is an

effective way of fooling carp and

other big fish on waters where they

have seen a lot of boilies and wised

up to them.

Maize looks a bit like giant

sweetcorn and shares many of the

same properties such as its sweet

juice, which is stored within the can

as it is packed and then cooked.

Large jars are available for times

when you want to fish with a bed

of bait or you can get tins for times

when you only want a few hook

bait samples. There are no added

preservatives either.

dynamitebaits.com


FEATURE

TOP FLOAT

SUPPLYING TOP FLOATS

FOR 23 YEARS

If you are on the hunt for the best fishing floats, then it makes sense to trust a

manufacturer who has strong experience and a reputation for being a reliable

and trusted partner – the aptly named Top Float.

Established back in 2002 by the business

partners of Bulgarian manufacturing

company K&K Ltd – which itself has

been running since 1992 – Top Float

has been offering fishing floats and materials to

the market using only the highest quality raw

materials, including balsa, Rohacell, PU foam,

cork and EVA.

Over the years, the factory has proven itself

as a reliable partner, working with some of the

biggest companies in the industry.

The factory is located on a 1,300 sq m site

and operates with seven CNC machines for

float production and two CNC lathes for the

production of metal parts.

Its 40 employees, most of whom have been

with the company since its establishment,

are specially trained to perform various tasks

following the good practices in fishing floats

production.

The annual capacity is around 1.6 million

floats and this production satisfies customers in

more than 40 countries, stretching as far afield

as Australia, Canada and the United States.

Quality is its top priority, making Top Float one

of the most preferred manufacturers of fishing

floats worldwide.

Staying on top

For 2025 Top Float will offer some new products

in its portfolio, which will hopefully interest a

large number of the company’s regular clients as

well as some new customers.

Two pellet waggler models - Adjustable Balsa

Pellet Waggler and Loaded Balsa Pellet Waggler

– are made of high quality solid balsa and are

adapted for carp fishing with pellets.

One of the models features a plastic disc

mounted for better fish detection and two

washers for better balancing. A third new

model is the Crystal Pellet Waggler, made of

polycarbonate (PC) and also featuring a disc,

which is fixed and is part of the weight.

Another novelty for 2025 is the special

coating ‘Super Hard Varnish’, used in the new

series of pole floats manufactured from Rohacell.

This varnish creates a solid, protective and

smooth finish, making it impossible for the

fishing line to ‘cut’ the float body.

Top Float believes this will prove popular with

the many competition anglers using this float.

Meanwhile, another addition – the Ultralight

Spring Eye – is said to be twice as light and

strong as standard ones that are widely used and

it makes use of a pointless hybrid eye.

Sliding away

When it comes to fishing in deeper water, the

new Carbon Slider comes to the rescue. It is

produced from high quality balsa with a conical

carbon tube with a cone at the top end. This

allows the wedging of a set of antennas with

different diameters, which can also be moulded

according to the customer’s specifications.

Top Float is a reliable and extremely flexible

partner which offers a huge variety of fishing

float models, materials and accessories ascross

its product range.

In addition to the models available in the

company’s catalogue, Top Float can easily

complete many individual orders according to

exact customer specifications, satisfying the

needs of even the most demanding clients.

www.fishing-floats.com


FEATURE

THE DIGITAL CATCH:

HOW TECHNOLOGY IS

TRANSFORMING FISHING

Modern technology continues to expand into every area

of our lives. From the workplace to the home, digital

products and smart technology have taken over. Now,

high-tech items are arriving on our banks and in boats to

boost our fishing too…

Recreational fishing has always

blended patience, skill and a

connection to nature, with anglers

relying on experience, intuition and,

sometimes, a little luck to reel in their catch.

However, modern technology is

revolutionising the way people engage with

the sport. From GPS-enabled fish finders to

sonar and smart tackle to social media-based

angling communities, technology has made

fishing more efficient, accessible and, dare we

say, more enjoyable than ever before.

Fish finding and sonar

One of the most significant advancements

in recreational fishing is the development of

sophisticated fish-finding technology.

Devices such as Garmin’s LiveScope,

Lowrance’s Active Target and Humminbird’s

MEGA Imaging use sonar and GPS to help

anglers locate fish with pinpoint accuracy.

Unlike traditional fish finders that offer

simple depth readings and rudimentary

fish detection, these new systems provide

real-time, high-resolution images of fish and

underwater structures, allowing anglers to

adjust their tactics instantly.

This technology has been especially

valuable for those fishing in unfamiliar waters,

helping anglers maximise their time and

increase their chances of a successful catch.

Ice fishing is one area that has benefited

from advancements like the Deeper Smart

Sonar, a castable fish finder that provides

detailed information even under thick ice. It

is also proving popular with carp and big fish

hunters across the globe.

Staying smart and connected

Beyond fish finders, the tackle trade has seen

an influx of smart gear designed to enhance

the angling experience.

For example, companies have developed

Bluetooth-enabled fishing reels that collect

data on casting distance, retrieval speed and

strike patterns, helping anglers refine their

technique.

Additionally, smart fishing rods equipped

with sensors can analyse movement and

vibrations to detect the slightest bites.

Some models even connect to mobile apps,

providing real-time feedback and allowing

users to log their catches with precise location

and environmental data.

Electronic lures are another innovation

that is changing the game. These batterypowered,

LED-equipped lures mimic the

movement and appearance of live bait,

increasing their effectiveness in attracting

fish. Some, like the Animated Lure, even

simulate swimming motions, making them

more enticing to predatory species.

While Livingston Lures’ Electronic Baitfish

Sound (EBS) technology integrates soundbased

attraction to enhance strike rates via a

circuit board inside each lure, delivering the

natural sounds of a distressed fish

Mobile Apps and AI

Smartphone applications have become

indispensable tools for modern anglers,

whether it’s providing vital information

on conditions or fishing hotspots or fish

recognition using Artificial Intelligence.

Apps like Fishbrain, ANGLR and

Navionics serve as digital fishing assistants.

Some offer features such as real-time

updates on wind speed, barometric pressure

and temperature to ensure accurate weather

forecasting to help determine optimum

fishing conditions.

There is essential tide and water level

data for both saltwater and freshwater

applications, enabling anglers to stay safe

while also planning the best times for a trip.

There are community- driven maps

and information to help anglers find the

best fishing hotspots and understand the

most successful techniques while apps like

FishVerify use Artificial Intelligence to help

identify species instantly by analysing a photo

taken on a smartphone.

Drones and remote control

Drones have expanded their role beyond

aerial photography and videography to

become valuable tools for anglers.

Fishing drones can be used to scout large

bodies of water, drop bait in precise locations


TECHNOLOGY

and even assist with casting. For surf fishing,

where casting distance can be a limiting

factor, drones equipped with bait-dropping

mechanisms can place lines far beyond the

reach of a standard cast.

Remote-controlled bait boats are another

technological innovation, particularly useful

in carp fishing. Although these have been

around for quite some time, the technology

continues to improve.

These small, motorised units can deliver

bait and rigs to exact locations, ensuring

maximum accuracy in placement. Some even

come with onboard sonar, allowing anglers

to scout the best spots before deploying their

lines.

Wearable technology

Safety is a critical concern for anglers,

especially those who venture into remote

waters. Wearable technology has stepped up

to address this issue, with devices such as

GPS-enabled life jackets and smartwatches

that monitor location, heart rate and

weather conditions. There is even wearable

technology that triggers an alert should an

angler fall overboard from a boat.

Smart glasses with augmented reality

(AR) capabilities are also making waves in

the fishing world. These glasses can display

real-time fishing data, navigation assistance

and even allow hands-free communication,

keeping anglers informed without distracting

them from their surroundings.

Social media and digital

communities

The fishing community has always thrived on

shared knowledge and storytelling, and social

media has amplified this aspect significantly.

Platforms like YouTube, Instagram and

TikTok have given rise to a new wave of

digital angling influencers who share tips,

reviews and personal experiences with

millions of followers.

Additionally, online forums and social

networks like Fishbrain allow anglers to log

catches, compare techniques, and engage

with fellow enthusiasts. This has fostered a

sense of community among anglers, bridging

gaps between skill levels and geographies.

Sustainability and conservation

While technology has made fishing more

accessible and productive, it has also played

a crucial role in promoting sustainable

practices.

Digital catch-and-release tracking systems

help scientists monitor fish populations and

protect endangered species. Some fish finders

even include “smart tagging” features that

allow researchers and conservationists to

track fish movements and behaviour.

Artificial intelligence and big data analytics

are also being used to monitor illegal fishing

activities, ensuring that recreational and

commercial fishing remain sustainable for

future generations. Moreover, biodegradable

fishing lines and smart tackle designed

to minimise harm to fish have gained

popularity, reflecting a growing awareness of

environmental responsibility among anglers.

Looking ahead

While some purists argue that these

advancements take away from the sport’s

traditional challenges, many anglers embrace

the innovation, seeing it as an evolution

rather than a replacement for skill and

intuition. As for the future of technology in

the sector, the industry will likely continue to

evolve with advancements in AI, robotics and

virtual reality.

Imagine AI-powered lures that adapt their

behaviour based on real-time fish activity or

VR fishing simulations that allow anglers to

practise techniques in a digital environment

before heading to the water.

As technology continues to push the

boundaries of what’s possible, recreational

fishing remains a blend of tradition and

innovation. Whether it’s through high-tech

fish finders, AI-driven apps or connected

gear, the modern angler has more tools than

ever to enhance their experience on the water.

The digital transformation of fishing

ensures that this time-honoured activity

remains exciting, accessible and sustainable

for future generations.


FEATURE

GLANZ :

THE GIGANTIC

GAME ROD

Fire your conviction and break into the ‘gigantic game’

with oversized swimbaits, thanks to the fully remodelled

range of GLANZ rods from Japanese rod making

expert ZENAQ.

MODELS

GLANZ GB73-X5 - BLACK OUT

Ideal for fishing with 100g-class

swimbaits targeting bass, seabass,

musky, pike, striper and barramundi.

This is a 9in swimbait special – as if

moved by your fingertips.

BLACK OUT covers a wide

weight range from 30g to 200g,

accommodating a wide variety of

lure types – from glide baits and big

stickbaits to soft swimbaits and heavy

Alabama rigs.

Its precise, fingertip-like

responsiveness draws fish closer,

offering the kind of linear, tactile

connection that lets you breathe life

into your lure with ease.

Whether fishing from shore, wading,

boating, or exploring new territory,

BLACK OUT adapts seamlessly to any

environment.

This extraordinary versatility is the

essence of the rod—and what makes it

indispensable.

Line: 25lb-35lb (mono) / 4 -8 (PE)

Lure: 30g-150g (mono) / 30g-200g

(PE)

Recommended reel size: 200-400

What GLANZ offers discerning

anglers is a rod you can trust

in any situation in the ‘gigantic

game’.

It’s not just about stiffness, it’s not just about

strength. It’s design that fuses flexibility with

torque-driven resilience redefines control

over heavyweight lures and elevates fight

performance to new heights.

Casting, manipulation, hooking, landing

– every motion flows in seamless focus, fully

syncing with the angler’s intent.

More than 20 years have passed since the

launch of the first GLANZ, a rod born from the

deep insight and relentless pursuit that only

ZENAQ could bring to the ‘gigantic game’.

These redesigned models offer so much more…

Packed with features

Designed for exceptional casting ease for

oversized lures, GLANZ models are said to

deliver astonishing distance, effortlessly. In the

‘gigantic game’, casting 100g, 400g or even

1,000g-class lures repeatedly is standard.

GLANZ rods feature a supple yet muscular

blank design that stores energy deeply on

the takeback and releases it with explosive

force. Even after a full day of casting, fatigue

is minimal, keeping your focus sharp until the

very last cast.

Offering precision control with heavyweight

swimbaits, these rods provide a level of

technical finesse never before possible.

GLANZ blanks merge flexibility with

responsive snapback, transforming the

immense water resistance of giant lures into

crisp, lifelike action. Whether it’s glide baits

or big stickbaits, these bring command and

control to a wide variety of lures, regardless of

lure weight.

Never miss that one chance, thanks to secure

hooksets and confident fight control. Many still

believe a stiff rod is the only choice for heavy

swimbaits but that stiffness often means losing

the one fish that matters.

GLANZ delivers exceptional hook-up

performance through its flexible yet firm

blank, reducing missed bites and lost fish.

From hookset to landing, the rod absorbs and

controls the combined load of the fish and lure

– giving you the confidence to finish the fight.

www.zenaq.com


GLANZ GB67-X10 - FLASH BANG

At the heart of inshore swimbait

games with lures up to 300g, targeting

seabass, bass, musky, pike, striper,

toman and barramundi, FLASH BANG

is a 6.7ft PE-exclusive rod built for

precise handling and tactical control.

From sharp topwater lure actions

at full-cast distance to subtle

manipulations in close quarters; from

skipping into tight cover to seamless

rod control in limited deck space

– every movement responds with

intuitive precision and laser-guided

accuracy.

Its flexible yet muscular blank loads

effortlessly, storing the weight of

300g-class lures and converting it into

explosive distance and crisp control,

delivering long cast performance

rarely seen in a rod this size.

Line: 4-8 (PE)

Lure: 50g-300g (PE)


GLANZ GB84-X10 - UTOPIAN BLUSTER

Designed for PE-line-based shore

swimbait games up to 300g and

ideal for sea bass, bass, musky, pike,

striper, barramundi and other powerful

gamefish.

Extend your reach by 30 per cent

with the ultimate long-casting PE

specialist. Built exclusively for PE lines,

UTOPIAN BLUSTER redefines the

range and precision of the shorebased

swimbait game.

Its blank and guide system are

engineered specifically for PE line,

delivering exceptional casting distance

and full control across the entire

weight spectrum – from standard

9in 100g lures to massive 300g-class

swimbaits.

The powerful, flexible blank loads

deeply and launches lures into zones

that were previously untouchable.

From glide baits and crank baits to big

topwater stickbaits, even long-distance

presentations remain sharp.

Line: 4-8 (PE)

Lure: 50g-300g (PE)


GLANZ GB80-X20 - LAPUA MAGNUM

The rod for bass, seabass, musky,

pike, striper and barramundi fishing

using heavyweight swimbaits offering

a control-dominated heavyweight

versatility, making the lure weight

simply disappear.

Heavyweight swimbait fishing– what

many call the “Giant Bait Game”– is no

longer a niche pursuit. It has become

a core style, and at its forefront stands

the GB80-X20 LAPUA MAGNUM, a

new-breed rod built for total command.

This model effortlessly casts and

controls 300g-class swimbaits with

a level of lightness and precision

never seen before. The sluggishness

common to other rods of this class is

entirely absent.

From the cast to the retrieve, it

delivers such smooth control that you’ll

feel as if the lure itself has become

lighter. In a game where one chance

defines everything, LAPUA MAGNUM

answers when it matters most.

Line: 25lb-40lb (mono) / 6-10 (PE)

Lure: 50g-400g (mono) / 50g-500g (PE)

GLANZ GB78-X78 - SUPER BONKER

This exclusive production model is just

the job for bass, seabass, musky, pike,

striper and barramundi fishing using

heavyweight swimbaits.

To the infinite ‘gigantic world’ this is a

dream-forged monster bait rod, crafted

for anglers who possess strength,

technique, experience, knowledge and

unwavering spirit.

The GLANZ GB78-X78 - SUPER

BONKER stands as the ultimate

destination in the world of ‘gigantic

game’ rods and loads over 1,000g

lure weight smoothly on the takeback

and accelerates in a controlled arc –

releasing stored energy into a forward

launch with power and confidence.

Even under the crushing water

resistance caused by oversized

baits, the blank responds instantly to

delicate inputs, transforming sluggish

movement into sharp, precise action.

Fantasy or reality? Whatever it is—

SUPER BONKER is the rod that takes

you to the farthest edge of an angler’s

dream.

Line: 40lb-60lb (mono) / 8-15 (PE)

Lure: 200g-1,500g (mono) /

200g-2,000g (PE)

Reel: 400

ZENAQ


BUSINESS

DOING BUSINESS WITH…

AUSTRALIA &

NEW ZEALAND

Collectively called Australasia, Australia and New Zealand offer a wealth of

fishing opportunities for so many species in a huge array of water while also

delivering a combined angling market worth billions.

It may be the smallest

continent but Australia is also

one of the largest countries,

lying between the Pacific and

Indian oceans in the Southern

Hemisphere.

Boasting 21,262 miles of

coastline plus thousands of lakes,

rivers and other watercourses over

its 2,969,907 square miles, it really

is an angler’s paradise.

By contrast, New Zealand is an

island country in the South Pacific

Ocean, set more than 1,000 miles

southeast of Australia, its nearest

neighbour, with about 9,300 miles

of coastline and a total land area of

103,500 square miles.

It comprises two main islands

– the North and the South Island

– and a number of smaller ones,

some of them hundreds of miles

from the main group.

The Australian tackle

market

With its vast coastline and rich

inland water systems, Australia

boasts one of the most vibrant

recreational fishing cultures in the

world.

This deep-rooted pastime has

supported a robust and evolving

fishing tackle market, catering to

a wide spectrum of anglers – from

casual hobbyists to serious sport

fishers whi are able to tackle a

wide variety of species.

As of 2025, Australia’s fishing

tackle market is valued at an

estimated $11 billion, with steady

annual growth over the past

decade.

The fishing tackle market in

Australia is not just a business

sector – it’s part of the cultural

fabric of the nation. With its

strong base of recreational

anglers and a growing emphasis

on sustainability, inclusivity and

technology, the industry is wellpositioned

for long-term growth.

Like many other regions,

the market saw a notable spike

during the Covid-19 pandemic, as

lockdowns and international travel

restrictions encouraged domestic

tourism and outdoor hobbies

like fishing. This shift led to

increased demand for fishing gear,

particularly among newcomers to

the sport.

Recreational fishing is enjoyed

by around five million Australians

each year, with quality rods and

spinning and baitcasting reels

especially popular to handle the

hard-fighting species found here.


ECONOMY

FOCUS

AUSTRALIA

Lures – both soft plastic

and hard-bodied – alongside

spinnerbaits are especially

popular for targeting species like

barramundi and Murray cod.

While the sport appeals to a

broad demographic in Australia, a

typical angler is still more likely to

be male, aged between 30 and 55,

and located in coastal or regional

areas.

That said, a growing number

of younger Australians and

women are taking up fishing,

often introduced via family or

through social media and online

communities.

The Australian Fishing Trade

Association also runs the AFTA

Tackle Show – two days of trade

business and a public day to round

it off. It’s usually staged in July

at the Gold Coast Convention

Centre and this year runs from July

24th to 26th.

If you’re making the journey,

expect to connect with Shimano,

Daiwa, Pure Fishing Australia,

Frogley’s Offshore, J M Gillies,

Wilson Fishing, Jarvis Walker,

Blue Fish Imports, Tackle Tactics,

Rapala VMC and River2Sea

brands, among others.

Retail trends

Historically, bricks-and-mortar

tackle shops and outdoor retailers

like BCF (Boating Camping

Fishing), Anaconda and Tackle

World have dominated the

market. However, the shift toward

e-commerce has accelerated

since 2020. Online platforms like

Hooked Online, Fishing Tackle

Shop, and even major players

like Amazon Australia, have

made significant inroads, offering

convenience, competitive pricing,

and access to international brands.

Consumers are also using

YouTube, TikTok and Instagram

to research gear and techniques,

further driving online sales.

Influencer marketing, gear reviews

and online fishing communities are

influencing product choices more

than ever.

Among the major brands

currently doing well in Australia

are Japanese giants Shimano and

Daiwa, Penn and Abu Garcia

– most notably in the saltwater

market – while Jarvis Walker is a

homegrown name offering valuefor-money

gear and beginnerfriendly

products, among others.

Samaki, Wilson and Atomic are

Australian brands known for

innovative lures and rod designs.

With more people living in

urban areas, there’s growing

interest in light-tackle fishing in

rivers, canals and urban lakes.

Compact gear and travel-friendly

kits cater to this trend.

Regulations and Licensing

Fishing regulations vary by state

and territory, and licenses are

typically required for recreational

fishing in certain areas. These

licenses sometimes fund local

conservation efforts, fisheries

research, and infrastructure for

anglers.

What to catch

Australia’s fish-filled waters offer

plenty of options for anglers,

from big-game sea fishing to

casting a fly on a river, lure fishing

on a mangrove-lined creek or

baitcasting on a lake.

The mix of angling species in

Australia’s warm and temperate

seas includes pink snapper,

mulloway, bream, whiting and

flathead, barramundi, mangrove

jacks, golden snapper, coral trout

and a host of fast-swimming

pelagic varieties such as tuna,

trevally, queenfish, mackerel and

cobia.

GDP US$1.802 trillion

GDP Growth rate 3.4%

GDP per capita US$65,966

Unemployment rate 4.1%

Top Export Partners:

China US$212.7 billion Japan US$80.5 billion

South Korea US$42.3 billion USA US$37.5 billion

India US$34.2 billion

Top Import partners:

China US$60.2 billion USA US$30.8 billion

Japan US$15.7 billion South Korea US$12.4 billion

Malaysia US$11.8 billion

FACT FILE

Capital: Canberra

Population: 27.753 million

Prime Minister: Anthony Albanese

Official language: English

Currency: Australian dollar

Internet domain: .au


BUSINESS

bonefish and tarpon. Add golden,

diamond and giant trevally,

barramundi and barracuda and

you can see the quality of shallow

water, inshore fly fishing on offer

around the north of the country.

Plenty of giant black marlin over

1,000lb are hooked every year,

along with many more in the 100lb

to 900lb range while species such

as sailfish, wahoo, mahi-mahi,

barracuda and grouper are also

popular.

In the south, the ocean currents

bring billfish, tuna, kingfish, sharks

and many other heavyweights to

the food-rich offshore grounds.

Australia has some of the best

fly fishing anywhere, and not

just confined to its trout waters.

The Murray cod, saratoga and

bass all provide excellent fly

fishing opportunities, as does

the barramundi, which can be

found in both fresh and saltwater

environments across the north of

the continent.

Australia’s northern coastal

waters are home to the “big three”

of tropical flats fishing – permit,

The New Zealand tackle

market

Fishing is a key activity in New

Zealand, with the tackle sales

market alone estimated to be

worth US$46.3 million in 2025

and predictions are that this will

continue to rise.

Recent data is hard to come

by but the last report from the

New Zealand Marine Research

Foundation suggested that, in sea

fishing alone, there were more

than 700,00 participants each

year, generating NZ$1.7 billion in

economic activity, and supporting

more than 8,000 jobs in total.

Meanwhile, the same report

also suggested that more than

100,000 international tourists

flock to in New Zealand’s coastal

waters each year, spending

NZ$89 million on marine-fishing

activities. Saltwater fishing is

one of the most popular outdoor

activities in New Zealand.

Indeed, fishing is more than just

a pastime in New Zealand – it’s

a way of life, with at least 10 per

cent of the population counting

themselves as keen anglers.

INDUSTRY VIEW

The Hon Bob Baldwin.

Independent chair,

the Australian Fishing

Trade Association (AFTA)

Australia’s recreational fishing

industry is set for strong growth

due to favourable conditions.

With extensive coastline, diverse

ecosystems and widespread

interest, when combined with

government support ,Australia stands

to benefit from rising participation in

recreational fishing.

Positive consumer confidence,

lower interest rates and manageable

inflation suggest potential growth

in consumer spending power,

potentially boosting businesses in the

industry.

Recreational fishing significantly

contributes to Australia’s

economy, generating $11 billion

annually through fishing equipment,

boats, travel and accommodation

spending.

The industry supports

over 100,000 jobs in wholesale,

retail, tourism and hospitality. With

over five million Australians (21 per

cent of the population) participating,

the economic impact is projected

to grow, creating more revenue and

jobs.

AFTA keenly awaits the next

National Recreational Fishing Survey

for updated figures as the anecdotal

evidence is that the industry is

experiencing strong growth.

Environmental stewardship and

sustainability are crucial for the

industry’s outlook. Australian anglers

are increasingly aware of conserving

fish populations and habitats.

Support for catch-and-release

programs, habitat restoration

and sustainable practices aims to

ensure long-term viability of fish

stocks and enhance future fishing

experiences. AFTA has always

supported peer reviewed scientific

data on stock assessments as a

qualified sustainability tool.

The Australian and State

governments recognise recreational

fishing’s importance and have


It’s perhaps not surprising,

given that the country boasts

over 15,000km of coastline

and countless rivers, lakes and

streams, making it a global

paradise for anglers.

Whether it’s game fishing off

the Bay of Islands or fly fishing in

the South Island’s alpine rivers,

Kiwis are passionate about their

waters and what swims beneath

them. This deep-rooted fishing

culture has given rise to a robust

and dynamic fishing tackle

market that continues to evolve in

response to environmental shifts,

technological advancements, and

changing consumer preferences.

The tackle market is a blend

of global powerhouses and

homegrown heroes. International

giants which are popular with

Kiwis include Berkley, Shimano,

Daiwa, Penn and Okuma while

Kilwell Sports, known for its

rods, reels and tackle boxes, CDX

high-end fly fishing and spinning

rods, CTS / Maven rods and Black

Magic Tackle – a key supplier of

premium terminal tackle, rigs and

accessories with a strong export

component – are local favourites.

With more than 30 stores

nationwide, Hunting & Fishing

New Zealand is one of the

country’s biggest retailers for

outdoor gear, including fishing

tackle, while smaller independent

stores and online-only outlets

also contribute to a vibrant,

competitive retail ecosystem.

Great locations

Whether you want to fish a river,

stream, lake, bay or the open

ocean, or you’re after marlin, trout

or snapper, then New Zealand has

you covered.

Head to Southland and

Fiordland for inspiring views,

less anglers and big skies as you

target brown or rainbow trout and

salmon while Stewart Island offers

plenty of charters for blue cod,

trumpeters and tarakihi.

The beautiful rivers of

Canterbury are best appreciated

from the business end of a flyfishing

rod. South of Christchurch,

the Rakaia River is famous for its

salmon and sea-run trout

If you want to try ocean fishing

but don’t have great sea legs, enjoy

the calm waters of Marlborough

Sounds on a charter fishing

trip. For more of an open ocean

experience, offshore from the

Abel Tasman National Park can be

very rewarding.

Clear, fast rivers run from the

North Island’s volcanic central

plateau, enticing trout fishermen

to come out and play, with

accommodation in everything

from rustic homes to worldfamous

fishing lodges.

If trophy size kingfish and

snapper are your thing, then the

port town of Whitianga and its

charter boats is a great place to be.

In summer there are game fish in

the waters, including tuna, marlin

and sharks

ECONOMY

FOCUS

GDP US$249.4 billion

GDP Growth rate 3.7%

GDP per capita US$48,071

Unemployment rate 5.1%

Top Export Partners:

China US$12.7 billion Australia US$5.5 billion

USA US$4.9 billion Japan US$2.6 billion

South Korea US$1.6 billion

NEW ZEALAND

implemented supportive policies.

Investments in infrastructure like

boat ramps, piers and artificial reefs

improve access.

Collaboration with fishing

organisations helps develop and

enforce regulations promoting

sustainable fishing. Notable

developments include removing

gill netting on Queensland’s east

coast and planning to remove 14

barramundi commercial gillnet

licences in the Northern Territory.

Fishing holds strong cultural

significance in Australia, fostering

social bonds and promoting an

outdoor lifestyle. Shared experiences

among anglers create community

support. As more people seek

relaxation and connection with

nature, fishing remains integral to

Australian life.

In conclusion, the future of

Australia’s recreational fishing

industry looks promising.

Its economic contributions,

commitment to sustainability,

technological advancements,

government support, and

cultural significance position it for

continued growth. As Australians

engage in fishing, the industry will

play a significant role in the nation’s

social and economic landscape.

Top Import partners:

China US$12.7 billion Australia US$6.1 billion

USA US$4.9 billion South Korea US$3.5 billion

Japan US$3.2. billion

FACT FILE

Capital: Wellington

Population: 5.479 million

Prime Minister: Christopher Luxon

Official languages: English, Maori, NZ Sign Language

Currency: NZ dollar

Internet domain: .nz

WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM

33

FEATURE

THE US-CHINA TRADE WAR:

THE US MARKET DOOR GRADUALLY CLOSES. CHINESE

FISHING GEAR EXPORTS FACE A LIFE-OR-DEATH TEST

For decades, the United States has been a critical market for Chinese fishing gear

exports. However, the increasingly tense international situation, particularly the

US-China trade war that erupted in April, has gradually closed the US market to

Chinese fishing gear exporters.

This article analyses the potential

impact of the US-imposed

“reciprocal tariffs” on Chinese

fishing gear exports since

April, based on publicly available market

information. The analysis combines

the current trade context, changes in

tariff policies, and the characteristics

of the fishing gear industry to provide

predictions and insights.

Analysis of China’s Fishing Gear

Exports to the US

According to public data from Chinese

Customs, in 2024 China exported $524.7

billion worth of goods to the US and imported

$163.6 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of

$361 billion, accounting for 36.4 per cent of

China’s total trade surplus of $992.1 billion and

2 per cent of China’s GDP.

Data from the United Nations International

Trade Database (UN COMTRADE), the US

Census Bureau and the Bureau of Economic

Analysis (BEA) in the US International Trade

in Goods and Services report suggest that,

when including Chinese exports to the US via

third countries like ASEAN and Mexico, the

actual export value may be as high as $650

billion, representing 18.2 per cent of China’s

total exports of $3.577 trillion and 3.5 per cent

of China’s GDP. The trade surplus could reach

$480 billion, accounting for 48.4 per cent of

China’s total surplus and 2.6 per cent of GDP.

This figure covers all categories of goods.

However, fishing gear, as a niche industry,

is not separately itemised in standard public

statistics.

Chinese Customs data indicates that

fishing gear is typically classified under broad

categories such as “sporting goods” or “fisheryrelated

equipment” (e.g., HS Code 95 for

sporting goods or HS 95.07 for fishing-related

products, including:

• HS 9507.10: Fishing rods

• HS 9507.20: Fish hooks

• HS 9507.30: Fishing reels

• HS 9507.90: Other fishing equipment (e.g.

fishing lines, lures).

China is a global leader in fishing gear

manufacturing, with over 95 per cent of

Chinese exhibitors at European and US fishing

gear trade shows being original manufacturers,

highlighting China’s significant advantage in

this sector. The US, one of the world’s largest

fishing gear consumer markets, has long been a

key destination for Chinese exports.

While specific 2024 data for fishing gear

exports is unavailable, estimates can be made

using related information. According to USDA

product reports and Statista, in 2022, Chinese

fishery product exports to the US accounted

for a significant share of its total exports

(approximately 13 per cent in 2020).

Assuming fishing gear follows a similar

pattern and considering China’s total exports

to the US, fishing gear likely represents a small

but stable portion.

In summary, Chinese fishing gear exports

include fishing rods, lines, lures, reels and

other products. These are popular in the US

market due to their competitive pricing and

complete supply chain

Conservatively estimating fishing gear to

account for 0.3 per cent of China’s total exports

to the US (based on the share of sporting

goods), the 2024 export value of Chinese

fishing gear to the US is approximately $2

billion. This is a rough estimate, and the actual

value may fluctuate due to market demand

and tariff policies (e.g., additional tariffs from

US-China trade tensions).

Current Tariff Background

As of April 15th, 2025, the US has significantly

escalated its “reciprocal tariff ” policy against

Chinese goods, imposing a 145 per cent tariff

on all Chinese imports (with some exceptions,

but fishing gear is not exempt).

Additionally, the US has closed the “de

minimis” exemption loophole, which

previously allowed packages valued under

$800 to enter the US duty-free, with China

accounting for about 60 per cent of such

packages.

In response, China has imposed retaliatory

tariffs, raising duties on all US imports to 125

per cent starting on April 11th, 2025. This

escalation of the US-China trade war will

undoubtedly have profound implications for

bilateral trade, particularly for Chinese fishing

gear exports to the US.

Importance of Chinese Fishing Gear

Exports to the US

China is a global powerhouse in fishing gear

manufacturing, with a complete supply chain

and cost advantages. Over 600 major Chinese

fishing gear manufacturers produce fishing

rods, lines, lures, reels, tackle bags, tents, and

accessories.

The US is the world’s largest fishing

gear market, with fishing-related activities

contributing tens of billions of dollars annually

to the economy (data from NOAA and the

American Sportfishing Association).

Chinese fishing gear, with its high costperformance

ratio, holds a significant market


share in the US. As estimated earlier, Chinese

fishing gear exports to the US in 2024 are

valued at approximately $2 billion.

CHINA

Direct Impact of Tariffs on Chinese

Fishing Gear Exports

(1) Rising Costs and Declining Price

Competitiveness

The US’s 145 per cent tariff will drastically

increase the cost of Chinese fishing gear in the

US market to an unsustainable level. For a $2

billion export market, an additional 145 per

cent tariff translates to an extra $2.9 billion

in tax burden. Under normal circumstances,

this makes exporting fishing gear to the US

unfeasible.

The industry had previously anticipated that

a 10 per cent tariff could be partially absorbed

by Chinese exporters (by cutting profits), while

a 20 per cent tariff might require cost-sharing

between Chinese exporters and US importers

or lead to retail price hikes.

However, the unprecedented 145 per

cent tariff effectively halts normal trade.

Fishing gear is unlikely to receive tariff

exemptions, potentially leading to practices

like transshipment, underreporting quantities

or misdeclaring values.

(2) Declining Export Volumes

Higher tariffs typically suppress import

demand. According to the Tax Foundation,

the new tariff policy could reduce US imports

by approximately $800 billion (about 25 per

cent). For Chinese fishing gear exports to the

US, if demand is highly elastic (i.e. consumers

are price-sensitive), export volumes could

drop by 20–30 per cent.

For example, a $2 billion export market

could shrink to $1.4–1.6 billion, severely

impacting Chinese fishing gear factories reliant

on the US market.

(3) Impact of Closing the “De Minimis”

Loophole

Many low-value fishing gear products (e.g.

fish hooks or lures) are exported to the US

via e-commerce platforms like Temu and

Shein, previously benefiting from duty-free

treatment.

The closure of this loophole raises the tax

burden on these products from 0 per cent to

90 per cent (potentially increasing to 120 per

cent after May), further impacting crossborder

e-commerce fishing gear exports, likely

leading to price increases and some Chinese

firms exiting the US market.

Indirect Impacts and Industry

Responses

(1) Supply Chain Adjustments and Market

Diversification

Facing high tariffs, Chinese fishing gear

companies may accelerate production shifts

to Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam,

Indonesia, or Malaysia to bypass tariffs.

However, such transitions require time and

capital; and these countries currently lack the

capacity to fully replace China’s specialised

fishing gear supply chain. Moreover, this round


FEATURE

of US tariffs targets global trade, including

Southeast Asia, limiting the effectiveness of

this strategy.

Simultaneously, China may intensify

efforts to penetrate markets in Europe,

Southeast Asia and Africa. According to

Reuters, US tariffs could boost China’s trade

with other regions. However, these markets’

fishing gear consumption is far smaller than

the US, making it difficult to fully offset

losses.

(2) Increased US Domestic Competition

The tariff policy aims to stimulate US

manufacturing, potentially including fishing

gear. US domestic fishing gear companies may

gain market share, especially in the high-end

segment. However, due to China’s low-cost

production advantage, the US cannot replace

China’s large-scale supply in the short term,

and consumers may face price increases rather

than increased supply.

(3) Broader Trade War Implications

The mutual imposition of high tariffs by

China and the US could severely damage the

most critical economic ties between the two

economies.

Decades of certainty in international

trade are being disrupted, and the potential

decoupling of US-China trade poses

significant risks and uncertainties to global

trade.

Quantitative Impact Estimates

Based on the 2024 Chinese fishing gear

export value of $2 billion to the US, the trade

war’s impact could be as follows:

Short-term (2025): Exports may decline

by 20–30 per cent, or $400–600 million,

with profit margins shrinking by 10–15 per

cent due to limited cost pass-through.

Companies may resort to greymarket

customs clearance or third-party

transshipment to maintain exports.

Medium-term (2026 onward): If supply

chain adjustments succeed, losses may

narrow to 10–20 per cent. However, if the

trade war persists with tariffs at 145 per cent

or higher, exports could halve to $1 billion or

less.

Long-term (2027 onward): If all

strategies fail and the trade war continues

unabated, Chinese fishing gear exports to the

US could drop to zero, with Chinese factories

completely losing the US market.

Coping Strategies for Chinese

Fishing Gear Industry

The 145 per cent US tariffs and the resulting

trade war will significantly harm Chinese

fishing gear exports to the US, with impacts

including rising costs, declining export

volumes, and weakened competitiveness.

In the short term, Chinese fishing gear

companies may face reduced orders and

compressed profits. In the long term, the

industry may mitigate impacts through

supply chain relocation and market

diversification, but the US market’s

importance is difficult to replace in the short

term.

Further escalation of the trade war (e.g.,

higher tariffs or additional non-tariff barriers)

could exacerbate these effects.

The landscape has shifted and the US-

China trade war is just the beginning.

For Chinese fishing gear exporters, coping

strategies include:

• Prioritising the development of the

domestic fishing gear market.

• Accelerating international expansion where

feasible.

• Enhancing product value-added features.

• Seeking government support (e.g, export

subsidies) to cushion the unprecedented tariff

shock and navigate the trade war.

Strategic Analysis

Since April 2025, the US-China trade war

has rapidly intensified, with escalating tariff

barriers and tit-for-tat measures testing the

global economic landscape. China’s response

strategy is becoming clear, revolving around

three core pillars: maintaining calm and

resolve, avoiding isolation, and targeting US

vulnerabilities. These reflect China’s strategic

thinking and its preparation for a prolonged

conflict. China’s leadership has demonstrated

calm and confidence in the trade war.

Through official propaganda and policy

communication, they are preparing the public

for potential economic turbulence while

channelling public discontent toward the US,

framing it as the source of the issue.

To rally domestic support, the government

is invoking historical resilience against

external aggression, stoking nationalist

sentiment to strengthen social cohesion. This

strategy aims to ensure domestic stability as a

foundation for countering external pressures.

At the same time, Beijing is acutely aware

of the risk of the US isolating China through

global alliances. To counter this, China is


CHINA

actively seeking closer ties with Asia, the

EU, and developing nations to find common

ground and resist US pressure.

President Xi Jinping has publicly called

for China and the EU to “jointly oppose

unilateral bullying,” seeking allies in Europe.

Additionally, his April visits to Vietnam,

Malaysia,and Cambodia aimed to solidify

regional ties. Beijing is also crafting

strategies to avoid diplomatic and economic

encirclement, ensuring China remains a key

player on the global stage.

Tactically, China is employing precise

retaliation to target US vulnerabilities.

Beijing believes that by targeting strategic

US industries, restricting critical inputs,

pressuring the macroeconomy, and increasing

discomfort for US consumers, it can

effectively counter US tariff aggression.

For instance, China raised tariffs on US

goods from 34 per cent on April 4 to 125 per

cent on April 11, directly responding to the

US’s 145 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods.

Simultaneously, China is accelerating efforts

to reduce reliance on US goods and diversify

supply chains to mitigate long-term risks.

Chinese leaders view the trade war as part

of a broader US strategy to contain China’s

rise, rather than a mere economic dispute.

Beijing believes short-term compromise

is unlikely, as any concessions could invite

further US pressure.

Thus, the current situation is seen as a

strategic challenge, not an economic crisis.

Chinese leaders believe their political system’s

unity, resilience, and discipline provide an

advantage over the US, enabling them to

withstand prolonged trade war pressures.

Through policy signals, they indicate a

commitment to holding firm, anticipating

potential US policy shifts, such as the Trump

administration adjusting its stance due to

domestic pressures.

In this standoff, neither side shows signs of

compromise. The US has eliminated the “de

minimis” exemption for small packages and

plans to impose 90 per cent tariffs on such

packages starting on May 2nd, with potential

further increases. These policies will drive up

logistics costs and consumer burdens.

Meanwhile, China is increasing customs

clearance requirements and tariff barriers,

making it harder for US goods to enter its

market.

In the short term, the US-China trade war

is likely to remain deadlocked, with global

supply chains and consumers facing greater

uncertainty. Beijing’s strategy is clear but its

effectiveness will only become apparent

with time.


FEATURE

MARKETING YOUR

BUSINESS FOR FREE

Marketing is essential for any business – but it doesn’t

have to break the bank. Especially in today’s digital

world, there are countless ways to promote your brand,

generate leads and build customer loyalty without

spending a cent.

Harness the power of social media

Social media platforms like Instagram,

Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and X (formerly

Twitter) offer free accounts and incredible

reach. The key is consistency and value.

To get the most from these platforms

ensure you post regularly – it keeps you in

the eyeline of potential customers and helps

you to stay relevant. Schedule posts so people

know when to expect your content.

Share value such as educational posts, tips,

how-to guides and entertaining content and

remember to engage with your followers by

replying to comments and participating in

groups to build relationships.

A neat tip is to identify which platforms

your ideal audience uses and then focus

on them – it may only be one or two but it

makes it easier to handle and you don’t waste

energy on those that have minimal impact.

Build a strong Google Business

profile

If you have any kind of local or service-based

business, setting up and optimising your

Google Business Profile (formerly Google

My Business) is critical… and free.

To make the most of this, ensure your

information such as address, phone, opening

hours and website are all up to date. Post

updates, photos and offers, encourage

satisfied customers to leave reviews and

respond thoughtfully to feedback to show

customer care.

When someone searches for services “near

me” a well-optimised profile can land you in

the top results – without any ad spend.

Start a blog

Content marketing is still one of the most

powerful organic growth strategies and helps

you establish yourself as an expert in your

field.

Write posts based on what your customers

frequently ask you about and use keywords

which your audience is searching for (this is

known as Search Engine Optimisation or

SEO) – it helps you rank higher in search

engines.

You could even offer to write articles for

other blogs or business websites in your

niche, making sure you link back to your

website, which boosts your ranking and your

domain authority.

Over time, blogging helps drive organic

traffic from search engines and positions you

as a trusted authority.

Create an email newsletter

Email remains one of the highest ROI

marketing channels. Setting up a free email

newsletter using platforms like Mailchimp

(which has free options) or ConvertKit is

straightforward.

Give away a free checklist, eBook or guide

in exchange for email sign ups, send your

newsletters regularly to keep customers

updated of the latest offers or drop in useful

or appealing content.

It’s crucial to build relationships with

your customers – gain their trust by offering

information, don’t just try and sell them

stuff. Even with a small mailing list, emails

keep your audience engaged and coming

back.

Word of mouth and referrals

Your existing customers and networks can

be your best marketers. Ask for referrals

whenever you can – most satisfied customers

are happy to refer others if you simply ask.


Offer free workshops or classes

People love learning new skills and free

education builds massive goodwill.

Host a free webinar or local workshop

on a fishing-related topic and perhaps even

get a guest angler to join in. They could

share both stories and expertise while also

showcasing your products or services.

Don’t forget to promote the event

across social media, community boards

and relevant forums. Providing real value

up-front can lead to loyal customers down

the line.

MARKETING

You can motivate customers further with

incentives, even if it’s only a simple thank

you, social media shoutout or small bonus.

Creating an exceptional customer experience

is still the fastest way to ignite word-ofmouth

growth.

Partner with others

Collaboration is a zero-cost, high-value

strategy. Find businesses with similar

audiences but non-competing services –

maybe a fishery – and share each other’s

offerings. Team up to run engaging webinars,

social media contests or in-person events or

create bundled offers that provide extra value

to both your customer bases.

The right partnerships can double your

exposure – and double your credibility.

Use free online communities

There are literally hundreds of nichespecific

forums, Facebook Groups, Reddit

communities and LinkedIn groups where

your audience already hangs out.

Join in and add value by answering

questions, giving advice or simply

contributing. Many communities allow you

to share links or promote yourself – but

only after you’ve built trust. By showing up

consistently and being genuinely helpful,

you’ll naturally attract attention to your

business.

Maximise free online directories

List your business on as many reputable

directories as possible, such as Yelp, Yellow

Pages, Bing Places, local free networking

boards and chamber of commerce sites,

among others

This not only increases your online

presence but also boosts your SEO,

elevating you in search rankings and

making it easier for customers to find you.

Focus on personal branding

People really do prefer to do business with

people, rather than faceless companies.

Share your journey, values and behindthe-scenes

stories on LinkedIn, Instagram

or your blog.

Position yourself as a thought leader

by sharing tips, lessons learned and

insights. This will help you build authentic

relationships, not just followers.

When people feel connected to you,

they’re more likely to buy from you,

recommend you and support your brand

long-term.

Win big at no cost

Effective marketing isn’t necessarily about

how much you spend – it’s about how

much value you deliver, how well you

communicate it and how consistent you

are.

By strategically leveraging free

marketing channels like social media,

content marketing, referrals and

partnerships, you can grow your business

organically and sustainably.

Start by picking just two or three

strategies from this list and focus on

executing them really well.

Over time, your efforts will build

momentum, leading to greater visibility,

customer trust and, most importantly,

business growth.


MAKING CONTACT

1

2

3

MAKING CONTACT

Do you want your

products to be seen

by thousands of

potential buyers…

FREE of charge?

Then get in touch,

we’d love to hear

from you.

JOHN HUNTER

+44 7990 542958

john.hunter@artichokehq.com

Contact John directly for

details of how to send

your product / images and

a short description to

Tackle Trade World.

1 FLYING FISHERMAN

GRANDERS SUNGLASSES

The Flying Fisherman Granders

models feature AcuTint polarised

lenses to cut glare, enhance

contrast and improve depth

perception.

The large fit, full-wrap frame offers

maximum coverage, while wide

temples block peripheral light and

wind for reduced eye fatigue.

TR-90 Grilamid frames are

lightweight yet impact-resistant,

with non-slip nose pads and

temple grips for a secure,

comfortable fit.

Granders provide the clarity,

protection and performance

needed to battle the biggest

catches.

www.flyingfisherman.com

2 DAIWA

TATULA TW 150 REEL

A multipurpose weapon, the

perfectly palmable TATULA TW

150 covers the bases for the most

popular bass fishing techniques

– crankbaits, frogs, topwaters,

ChatterBaits and bladed jigs.

Its bedrock is Daiwa’s Long

Cast (LC) Concept, designed to

maximise casting distance, while

the Hyperdrive system delivers

unparalleled smoothness while

retrieving crankbaits and more,

thanks to its three-point gear

contact within the Hyperdrive

Digigear system.

Add features like Magforce-Z,

T-Wing system, Hyperdrive Tough

Clutch, Ultimate Tournament Drag

and a 100mm swept handle and

you have a winner.

www.daiwa.us

3 LIVETARGET

ICT WORMS

No matter your preferred rigging

technique for worm fishing,

LIVETARGET’s new ICT worm

profiles will have you putting big

ones in the boat.

Available in a variety of colours

and tail profiles, LIVETARGET

worms all feature of the brand’s

proprietary ICT (Injected Core

Technology) to give the baits

unmatched realism and attraction

in the water.

www.mustad-fishing.com/

livetarget


Classifieds

SPLIT RING

PLIERS

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

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@artichokehq.com

COMING UP…

JULY 2025

Ad Copy: May 16th, 2025

Mailed: June 4th, 2025

Special issue: ICAST preview

Spotlight: Tackle storage

Doing Business With: Florida

AUGUST 2025

Ad Copy: June 20th, 2025

Mailed: July 9th, 2025

Special issue: Predator Fishing

Spotlight: Hooks

Doing Business With:Hungary

SEPTEMBER 2025

Ad Copy: July 18th, 2025

Mailed: August 6th, 2025

Special issue: EFTTEX Preview/ ICAST

Spotlight: Clothing

Doing Business With: Japan

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@artichokehq.com

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@artichokehq.com

MAKING CONTACT

5

6

7

4

4 HUK

STORM JACKET

The Huk Storm Jacket is

the rainwear you’ll want to

always have on hand for when

unexpected weather pops up.

Built with 2L, 10k waterproof

construction and featuring a

critical seam seal and a the-piece

adjustable hood, this great value

jacket is designed to keep you dry

even if you get caught out by the

weather.

Grab one for the boat and one

for the truck so you’re always

prepared.

The men’s version comes in

Harbour Mist (grey), Naval

Academy (dark blue) and black

while the women’s model is

available in either Bermuda

(green) or white.

www.huk.com

5 GRANGERS

FOOTWEAR CARE KIT

This all-in-one kit takes care of

your favourite shoes and boots,

after you have had a great day out

on the bank or in the countryside.

It includes Footwear + Gear

Cleaner, Footwear Repel,

Footwear Brush and Odour

Eliminator and handles all

footwear, regardless of its material

– suede, nubuck, leather and fabric

are all catered for.

www.grangers.co.uk

6 SMITH

OUTRIGGER GLASSES

These angling-specific glasses

are offered exclusively with

proprietary ChromaPop lens

technology to deliver enhanced

colour, clarity and definition across

a variety of tints and designed

with purpose-built features to

maximise on-water performance.

The modern, angular frame

shape and six-base modest

wrap offers large coverage

and progressive style that

easily transitions from

mornings spent casting tight

lines to relaxed afternoons

recounting the catches. The

addition of integrated slim

side shields offers peripheral

light protection and reduces

reflective backside

glare. The leash-compatible

temples provide added security

when worn off the face.

www.smithoptics.com

MAKING CONTACT

7 GRUNDÉNS

TOUGH SUN MASKED HOODIE

Built to thrive in the harshest

fishing environments, this UPF

50-rated sun shirt is packed with

innovative features to keep you

comfortable, protected and ready

to tackle long days on the water.

Crafted with Grundéns’ trusted

Tough Sun fabric, this shirt offers

breathable sun protection with

superior abrasion and snag

resistance to ensure it stands the

test of time.

There’s an integrated neck gaiter

with laser-perforated holes,

integrated thumb holes, Smart

Temp technology to keep you

cool, Stain Away treatment for

easy cleaning and HeiQ Pure Odor

Control to keep you fresh.

www.eu.grundens.com


Super

Heat Dissipation

Super

Low-Friction

Super

Hardness

Super

Lightness

Tackle Trade World - June 2025

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