Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!
Leverage SEO-optimized Flipbooks, powerful backlinks, and multimedia content to professionally showcase your products and significantly increase your reach.
SENT TO MORE THAN
18,500
TACKLE INDUSTRY
PROFESSIONALS
IN OVER
120 COUNTRIES
EVERY MONTH
AUGUST 2025
Super
Heat Dissipation
Super
Low-Friction
Super
Hardness
Super
Lightness
COMMITTED TO INCREASING YOUR BUSINESS GLOBALLY
SWEDISH SPINNERS
THE MYRAN BRAND MARKS
75 YEARS OF QUALITY
PAGE 18
HUNGARY FOR SUCCESS?
OPENING UP THE GATEWAY
TO EASTERN EUROPE
PAGE 34
MORE PEOPLE GOING FISHING
THAN EVER IN THE USA
Arecord number of people in the USA
– some 57.9 million – went fishing
during 2024, as the upward trend in
participation in the sport continues.
Some of this boost can be attributed to a
record number of saltwater anglers taking to
the water – 15.1 million in total – with more
black Americans also enjoying the sport than
since records began 17 years ago.
The number of Hispanic anglers has
continued to climb – doubling over the
past decade to 6.6 million – while female
participation remains at an all-time high of 23.1
million.
The information is detailed in the annual
Special Report On Fishing, produced by the
US’ Outdoor Foundation and the Recreational
Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF).
The report provides a comprehensive
review of fishing participation trends going
back to 2007, including detailed information
on specific fishing categories. Findings also
include motivations, barriers, demographics
and preferences of all anglers, including key
segments such as youth, Hispanic Americans,
Black Americans and females.
It revealed that, in 2024, 57.9 million
Americans aged six and over took to the
nation’s waterways to enjoy recreational fishing,
up from 57.7 million in 2023. The fishing
participation rate remained at 19 per cent, an
all-time high.
Interestingly, anglers are actually taking less
trips per month – 68 per cent of participants
fished between one and 11 times during 2024;
which is less than one per month.
Regular anglers are taking less frequent trips;
just 32 per cent fished once a month or more
during the past year, which is down from 37 per
cent a decade ago.
Fishing’s national participation rate among
children aged six to 17 declined slightly in 2024
but remained higher than five years ago while
the number of participants aged six to 12 rose
slightly to 7.5 million last year. But among those
aged 13 to 17, it fell from 5.6 million last year to
5.2 million.
More than 43 million Americans went
freshwater fishing, with the participation
rate holding steady at 14 per cent for the third
consecutive year.
After hitting 15 million anglers for the first
time in 2023, saltwater fishing participation
grew slightly to 15.1 million in 2024. This was
the highest number on record, over 500,000
anglers more than in 2020, and over three
million participants higher than a decade
earlier.
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
AUGUST 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.
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
Since 1993, Robert has been editor-in-chief and
reporter for fishing publications in China, to magazines
and newspapers. He has also been delivering
professional trends to the tackle industry and has
managed a popular fishing forum, facilitating the
exchange of insightful industry information within
China’s premier fishing community.
ARTICHOKE MEDIA LTD
Suites 2 & 4 Global House, Colchester, Essex, CO1 2TJ, UK
HOW TO KEEP
CHURNING OUT
ANGLERS
It’s heartening to see reports that the
USA continues to boast strong numbers
of anglers, with some sectors at an
all-time high, while in other countries
and regions the sport also appears to have
enjoyed a boost.
The latest licence figures from the UK,
for example – helped undoubtedly by a very
warm, dry spring and early summer – are
keeping the tackle trade buoyant.
However, a closer look at both of these
markets – and doubtless a few others too –
reveals a worrying trend… what the industry
calls “churn”; a subject we have dealt with
more than once in this column.
In other words, while there are good
numbers of people picking up a fishing rod
for the first time, hanging onto them is
proving problematic.
Churn refers to the turnover of anglers –
thankfully in the US, the UK and a few other
regions, the increasing number of people
going fishing outweighs those hanging up
their fishing rods, which means an upward
trend currently… but it’s fine margins.
The 2024 Special Report on Fishing in the
USA – compiled by the Outdoor Foundation
and the Recreational Boating and Fishing
Foundation (RBFF) and outlined elsewhere
in this magazine – claims there are almost 60
million anglers in the country.
But regular anglers are, in general, taking
fewer trips. More alarmingly, while 16.9
million new or returning anglers picked up
a rod, 16.6 million left the sport; leaving us
the industry with a new gain of just 300,000.
Fine margins indeed…
We do appear to have some answers as
to how to address the churn, though. The
report – like many before it – details that
introducing young people to fishing at an
early age is crucial.
It says 85 per cent of current fishing
participants in the USA fished before the age
of 12. Participation rates fell sharply after a
child turned 18, making families with young
children an important focus for the future.
It’s understandable, as we grow older,
other things take up our time so fishing
becomes just one of the thousands of hobbies
or interests vying for the attention of us all.
The RBFF – through Take Me Fishing –
the American Sportfishing Association and
others have a range of initiatives in place to
target these groups and make it easier for
them to access fishable water. In the UK, the
Angling Trades Association owns the Take A
Friend Fishing and National Fishing Month
campaigns.
All of these schemes are designed to get
more families and more kids out on the water
and they really need the entire industry to
get behind them, supporting them with
resources like cash and suitable tackle as well
as ensuring they are shared with your own
communities.
Get in touch with your local trade body
and see how you can help. Their work is
designed to help you benefit and if you don’t
support them then you may have no anglers
– or fishing – in the future.
/tackletradeworld
/company/tackle-trade-world
WELCOME
STICK MASTER 127
DESIGNED AND
TESTED FOR EUROPE
FORWARD
FACING
SONAR
CERTIFIED
LIVINGSTONLURES.COM
AUGUST 2025
Contents
CONTENTS
08 NEWS
Spanish lure maker Lukris is looking for a buyer,
the trade pays tribute to former Rapala VMC USA
president Tom Mackin who has passed away and
Solar Tackle is looking for German sales experts as
it looks to grow.
10 NEWS
Case maker Peli Products has a new western
Europe sales director, we have news of the
winners from the UK’s big Sea Angling Classic
event while US distributor Pitman Creek buys the
Sports Specialists business.
12 DISASTROUS FISHING BAN OVERTURNED
Six months after it was proposed, the US’ National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Fisheries has withdrawn a three-month bottom
fishing closure for a snapper/grouper fishery.
14 EUROPEAN FISHING AND BOATING GROUPS
UNITE
The European Boating Industry (EBI) and the
European Fishing Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA)
have entered into a partnership to strengthen
cooperation between these two sectors.
16 GET READY FOR EFTTEX 2025
It’s not long to go until EFTTEX 2025 in Brussels.
Visitor registration is now live and more event
details, including the popular gala dinner and
awards night, have been confirmed.
18 SWEDISH SPINNER BRAND MARKS 75 YEARS
In 2025, Myran Sweden proudly celebrates 75
years of continuous production, marking a rich
18
20 26
legacy in the world of sport fishing gear. It’s come a
long way in that time…
20 SPOTLIGHT ON… HOOKS
At the heart of catching any fish lies a small but
essential tool – the hook. Understanding their
styles, patterns sizes and uses is not only essential
for success but also critical for sustainable and
responsible angling.
22 SHOP WINDOW
A look at some of the most popular hook patterns
and recent launches which you could consider
stocking to offer more choice in your retail
environment.
24 100 YEARS OF EAGLE CLAW
More than a century ago, Andrew D McGill set out
to create a better fly but ended up developing the
first Eagle Claw fish hook. Now, 100 years on, the
American-made brand is a byword for quality and
trust.
26 REPACKAGED FOR THE PLANET
Global hook giant Mustad has introduced
sustainable packaging and upgraded hook
technology, which it says will cut plastic use by 73
per cent. TTW unpacks the plans…
28 READY TO GO PRO WITH AUSTRALIAN LURES?
From a background in Australian tournament
fishing, Pro Lure has grown into a popular brand
with an ever-expanding network of dealers and
distribution and has plans to grow even further
across the globe.
30 GETTING YOUR TEEETH INTO PREDATORS
Predator fishing – targeting fish that actively
hunt other fish – is a thriving and growing sector,
appealing to anglers seeking the thrill of aggressive
strikes and challenging battles.
32 BERKLEY MOVES FORWARD WITH LINES
Few brands in fishing have shaped the sport quite
like Berkley, thanks to lines that were angling
30
32
evolution milestones. Now that legacy continues
with Forward Line, made for modern anglers
across Europe.
34 DOING BUSINESS WITH… HUNGARY
With its rich freshwater resources and a longstanding
angling tradition, Hungary is a key player
in the fishing tackle industry, not just in central
Europe but increasingly across the world, so it pays
to get connected…
40 TAIWAN TACKLE SHOW PUTS FAMILY FRST
With a theme of “Family Fishing, Endless Fun,”
the Taiwan Fishing Tackle Association’s recent
show attracted dozens of tackle businesses and
promoted fishing culture and marine education.
42 HOW TO GET FOUND EASIER WITH SEO
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is one of the
most powerful tools in digital marketing. By
making your website appeal to search engines you
can increase your visibility, drive more traffic and
generate more revenue.
44 WHY EUROPEANS LOVE LIVINGSTON
Livingston Lures has earned its reputation as
one of the most innovative brands in the US
fishing market, thanks to cutting-edge technology,
relentless product testing and a laser focus on
helping anglers succeed.
46 MAKING CONTACT
More key products that have been recently
released onto the market, from storage to lures
and boat mounts. What will be making its way
onto your shelves?
06 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
NEWS
Continued from page 3…
For the second year in a row,
fly fishing topped eight million
anglers, but national participation
rate remained at three per cent,
with 78 million outing sin total
during the year.
The report leans heavily on
what is called the “leaky bucket”
analysis, which measures
the annual churn of fishing
participants – those joining or
rejoining the activity compared to
those quitting.
Following a sizable net increase
of 3.2 million fishing participants
in 2023, 2024 saw a modest gain
of nearly 300,000 anglers – 16.9
million new or returning anglers
fished, while 16.6 million left the
sport.
Only one in five US anglers
typically fished alone, reiterating
that fishing remains a shared
activity, with almost 8 out of 10
anglers saying they usually fished
in groups of two to five.
The report authors said: “The
year 2024 brought encouraging
developments (easing inflation,
strong employment data, market
highs) amid a troubling backdrop
(deepening partisanship,
continued global strife, AI
worries). Through it all, fishing
remains a gateway to health,
wellbeing and togetherness.
“Data continues to underscore
the critical importance of
introducing fishing at a young
age, as 85 per cent of current
fishing participants fished before
the age of 12. Participation rates
fell sharply after a child turned
18, making families with young
children one key to growing
future participation.
“By understanding the
demographics, motivations
and barriers of participants, the
fishing industry can better reach
young Americans, nurture a new
generation of fishing enthusiasts,
and retain those new to the sport.
Connecting youth to fishing
will ensure that our nation’s
waterways are protected, our
communities are healthy, and our
industry is thriving.
“More than a hobby, fishing
represents a way of life, a
connection to wildlife, and a
sustainable way to support
your family, community and
local business. Whether on
lakes, rivers, streams or seas;
from shorelines, boats or
embankments; millions of
Americans were united in 2024
by the love of fishing.”
The report can be downloaded
here: https://lnkd.in/dgqR4w-P
MUD HOLE BACKS
MIGHTY RIVER RECOVERY
Mud Hole Custom Tackle, part of the Foundation Outdoor
Group, has revealed details of an important partnership with
Mighty River Recovery in the USA.
The collaboration provides for
financial support, fund raising
and hands-on volunteerism to
support Mighty River Recovery’s
mission of restoring the wildlife
habitat on Florida’s St. Johns
River.
Florida-based Foundation
Outdoor Group vice-president,
Hunter McKamey (pictured on
left), said: “The important work
Mighty River Recovery is doing
is crucial to the future of the St.
Johns River. We are thrilled to
be supporting such a worthy
initiative, right in our back yard.
“I have enjoyed countless
hours fishing the St. Johns River
in my youth and have seen the
significant decline in the fisheries
and wildlife, firsthand. The entire
Mud Hole team is excited to roll
up our sleeves and help Joe Balog
and the Mighty River Recovery
organisation make a significant
impact for the future of this
critical habitat.”
Spanish tackle
company up for sale
After many years dedicated to
the manufacture and supply of
artificial baits including spinners
and spoons, Spanish company
Lukris SL is set to close due
to retirement but it is on the
lookout for a buyer.
It said it was a difficult but
carefully thought-out decision
to close its doors due to the
retirement of the founding
partners but it believes there may
be an opportunity for a buyer to
continue the story.
The family firm started from
scratch back in 1961 but it has
always been about more than
business; it has been a dream
come true, a story of effort,
dedication and a love for fishing.
From its beginnings, it has
worked enthusiastically to
offer products of the highest
quality and trust. Under its own
Mapso brand – spanning years
of research, innovation and
commitment to its customers – it
has strived to develop products
Joe (pictured on right
spearheaded the non-profit
organisation after witnessing the
negative impact nutrient loading
and rapid development have
had on what is Florida’s longest
river, one of the state’s largest
freshwater resources and, once, its
premier bass fishery in Florida.
He added: “Mighty River
Recovery is truly focused on the
that not only meet expectations
but exceed them, always seeking
excellence in every detail.
While Rublex, a French-origin
brand dating back to the 1950s,
came into the fold in 1990 when
Lukris took over its management
after the original company closed.
Since then, it has kept its tradition
and quality alive, adapting it to
modern times while preserving its
classic and reliable essence.
A statement from the company
said: “Now, with this closure, we
want to express our hope that
someone passionate about fishing
sport and eager to continue this
tradition can take over Lukris SL.
“The company has always been
a family project and we believe
that its spirit can live on in the
hands of someone who shares our
love for this sector and values the
quality and history we have built
over the years.
“We would love for this
tradition to keep sailing into new
hands, with the same passion
actions that will restore the
St. Johns. We’re performing
the research, getting in the
water and doing the work to
replenish the habitats that will
rehabilitate the ecosystem.
“We are grateful for the
support and enthusiasm that
Hunter and the Mud Hole team
are bringing to our organisation
and we look forward to doing
great things together for the
St. Johns River.”
mudhole.com
and dedication that have
characterised us.
“Thank you to all our
customers, friends and
collaborators for trusting us
and accompanying us on
this journey. Although we
are closing a chapter, we are
confident that the future can
bring new opportunities and
new dreams for those who wish
to continue with the passion for
sport fishing.”
Anyone interested should get in
touch with the business via
elena@lukris.com
08 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
SOLAR SEEKS
GERMAN SALES
EXPERTS
Carp angling brand Solar Tackle is on the hunt for two area
sales manages to help grow its business and expansion
across Germany
Each role – one in northern and
one in southern Germany –
involve driving sales growth in
that territory by identifying and
securing new retail partners,
strengthening relationships with
existing customers and ensuring
outstanding customer service.
The candidates will also play a
key role in brand promotion, both
through in-store engagement and
at public angling events, while
contributing to the development
of a strong sales team to further
establish Solar Tackle’s presence in
the region.
The successful candidates will
be required to identify and acquire
new retailers and distribution
partners, develop and execute
strategic sales plans to increase
market penetration and revenue
and maximise sales opportunities
with existing customers by
introducing new products,
promotions and merchandising
support.
They will also need to build
and maintain strong, longterm
relationships with store
owners, managers and buyers,
provide exceptional customer
service, ensuring stock levels,
product knowledge and brand
representation are at their best
while conducting regular store
visits, training sessions and followups
to give retailers the tools to
RAPALA VMC MOURNS
LOSS OF TOM MACKIN
The tackle trade has been saddened by news of the passing
of Tom Mackin, a former president of Rapala VMC USA
and longtime member of the Rapala VMC group executive
committee.
drive sales.
In addition, the roles involve
representing Solar Tackle at
key trade shows, exhibitions
and angling events across the
country, engaging with the
angling community to drive
brand awareness and customer
loyalty while working alongside
the market teams to develop
region-specific campaigns and
promotions.
They will also help identifying
and mentoring potential brand
ambassadors as well as provide
training and guidance for team
members and retail partners to
uphold the company’s values and
sales strategies.
Each candidate will need proven
sales experience, ideally in the
angling, outdoor sports or related
industries, a strong track record
in business development and
account management, fluency in
written and spoken German and
English, excellent communication,
negotiation and interpersonal
skills and must be self-motivated,
results-driven, and able to work
independently.
While the role is remote,
willingness to travel extensively
across Germany is a must and
a passion for carp angling and a
deep knowledge of the industry is
preferred.
In return Solar Tackle offers
a competitive salary and
performance-based commission,
travel expenses, a dynamic and
passionate work environment and
the opportunity to grow with a
leading angling brand.
To apply, contact
jobs@solartackle.co.uk
UNI PRODUCTS J.G. Cote Inc.
1004 Principale
Ste-Melanie, QC. Canada JOK 3AO
Tel: 450-889-8054
Toll-Free: 1-877-889-8054
Fax: 450-889-5887
Email: info@uniproducts.com
Tom dedicated over 30 years
of his life to the Rapala brand,
helping to shape its legacy with
passion, integrity, and visionary
leadership. He had recently
entered retirement.
Rapala VMC president and
CEO Cyrille Viellard led the
tributes, saying: “Throughout
his remarkable career, Tom was
known not only as an exceptional
marketer but also as a warm,
humble and compassionate
leader.
“His deep knowledge of the
fishing industry, combined with
his unwavering support for
colleagues and partners alike,
earned him respect across the
global angling community.
“Tom’s impact extended
far beyond business. He was a
mentor to many, a trusted guide
and, above all, a dear friend.
His leadership left a great mark
on Rapala VMC and especially
on our Team USA colleagues,
many of whom grew under his
guidance.
“Our thoughts are with Tom’s
family during this difficult time.
We are grateful for the legacy he
leaves behind.”
TAKE CONTROL OF SPOOLED
WIRE WITH THE UNI-STRAP
Look to UNI for the best in spooled fly-tying materials!
www.uniproducts.com
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 09
NEWS
SCOTS MAKE TRIUMPHANT
RETURN TO DEFEND SEA
ANGLING CLASSIC TITLE
Last year’s UK Sea Angling Classic champions returned in
style to retain their title in impressive fashion.
The trio of Stuart Cresswell,
Steven Toner and William
Kennedy aboard Bluefin
outclassed the opposition by
boating a two-day total of
1,956cm of the target species in
The Solent on the UK’s south
coast.
That was a huge 264cm ahead
of second-placed Hot Pursuit,
crewed by Adam Kirby, Dan
Sissons and Peter Baker, closely
followed by Jonathan and Joseph
Challinor and Joel Cripps on
Tequila, just 25cm behind.
Looby IV – with David Wilson,
Jeremy Shutter, Stuart Jones and
Matthew Wilcock aboard – came a
creditable fourth, just 5cm behind
with 1,662cm while Black Bridge’s
Jack, Shane and Marcus Coombes
with Harry Coles finished fifth.
The 30-plus boats fished a large
area of the prolific Solent for five
target species of bass, black bream,
rays, tope and smoothhound on
a catch, photograph and release
basis – with the longest three fish
of each species counting towards
the final total each day. The overall
length over two days determined
the winners.
The Bluefin crew (pictured
below), who travelled down
from Scotland for the third year
running, took their share of the
£65,000 prize table, including a
cheque for £10,000 of Lowrance
gear, Crewsaver championsbranded
lifejackets, YETI custom
painted gold winners’ tumblers
and cool boxes, Mermaid gin and
a Crewsaver boat, plus the coveted
Sea Angling Classic trophy.
Bluefin skipper Stuart
Cresswell said: “Two-time
champions does sound good.
Everybody fishing here has made
us feel so welcome; we really
appreciate that. We have been
here all week and people have
helped us to know where to go
and catch those fish.
“We are incredibly grateful to
Lowrance, Crewsaver, Premier
Marinas and YETI for sponsoring
this event. It’s a big investment for
us to come down and participate
and we are really proud to win this
again.”
William Kennedy said: “We
came down and had a game plan
with some marks we wanted to
target, especially after a few days’
practice, but you never know how
it will pan out until you get out
there on the water.”
Part of that plan involved
working out who was doing what
on the boat and pulling together
when needed.
Steven Toner added: “It is
no exaggeration to say this
competition really is all about
teamwork – and this was a great
team effort.”
As records tumbled, it became
apparent that this was the best
year ever for the crews in the Sea
Angling Classic as it witnessed
the biggest winning total, not
one but five event record-busting
tope which has stood since 2021
in addition to an event record
smoothhound caught by Joseph
Challinor.
In a spectacular prizegiving
ceremony by event organiser Ross
Honey in front of a giant wall of
YETI coolboxes and hundreds of
prizes in Premier Marina’s Port
Solent, crews and individuals were
honoured for their angling efforts.
He also spoke about the
Marc to direct Peli’s
Western Europe sales
Peli Products, a global designer and manufacturer of high-performance
protective cases and advanced lighting systems, has appointed Marc
Prenafeta as sales director for the Western European region.
With over two decades of
international sales and general
management experience, Marc
brings a wealth of industry
expertise to Peli, particularly
from the industrial and public
lighting sectors, as well as
industrial controls and elevator
technologies.
His previous roles include
key leadership positions at
Carandini, Leds C4, SmartLift
and Schneider Electric, where
he demonstrated a strong track
record in strategic growth and
international market development.
Marc’s incorporation is a pivotal
move for Peli as it continues to
consolidate and expand its sales
network across Western Europe
– a diverse region that includes
both established markets such
as Germany and France, and
emerging ones with high growth
potential, notably India and the
Middle East.
Based at the company’s
EMEAI headquarters in
Barcelona, Spain, Marc will lead
the Western European sales
team, strengthening the brand’s
market presence, accelerating
growth initiatives and further
reinforcing its commitment to
providing innovative solutions
and exceptional service to our
customers across the region.
Francesco Della Mora, vicepresident
of EMEAI sales and
marketing, said: “We are thrilled
to welcome Marc to the Peli
family. His extensive international
experience and strategic
insight will be instrumental
as we push forward into new
territories and build upon
our legacy of excellence in
customer engagement and sales
performance.”
www.peli.com
10 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
FreeSpirit boat project, which was
conceived to provide everyone,
regardless of age or ability to
access the ocean for leisure,
wellbeing and sustainability
projects. The boat is scheduled to
arrive in Port Solent on July 25th
for the build completion.
There were prizes for the top 15
boats along with the longest fish
of species plus a handful of other
crucial categories:
Longest bass: 70cm, Luke Mckell
Longest tope: 167cm, Adam Kirby
Longest smoothhound: 129cm,
Jonathan Challinor
Longest ray: 67cm, Gareth
Protheroe
Longest black bream: 39cm,
Matthew Wilcock
Best Lady: Caroline Mckell,
Squidward III, 1,061cm
Best Junior: Toby Challinor,
Crewsaver I, 570cm
Best Small Boat (6.5m and under):
Squidly Diddly, Steve & Jeanette
Stefanou, 1,123cm
Best-Placed Yamaha-Powered
Boat: Black Bridge, Jack, Shane &
Marcus Coombes, Harvey Coles
US TACKLE DISTRIBUTOR
BUYS SPECIALIST BUSINESS
Pitman Creek Wholesale LLC, the US-based independently
owned fishing tackle distributor, has entered into an
agreement to purchase Sports Specialists.
Founded in 1972, Sports
Specialists has built a strong
reputation in the fishing tackle
industry under the ownership
of Tom and Susan Ducrest. It
is known for its reliable service
and solid relationships with both
tackle retailers and manufacturers.
James Coffey, president/owner
of Pitman Creek Wholesale LLC,
said, “The acquisition of Sports
Specialists brings together two
companies with very similar
cultures and histories. As Tom
and Susan desire to spend more
time with their children and
grandchildren, it is an enormous
opportunity for Pitman Creek to
expand our geographical coverage.
“I am most excited about
adding the Sports Specialist team
and bringing our industry-best
shipping and data analytics to
their customers. he combined,
expanded product assortment
will be a huge benefit for our
customers. It is a win for everyone
involved: our customers, our
vendors and our employees.”
The acquisition expands
Pitman Creek Wholesale’s
operations in the Midwest and
Great Lakes, nearly doubling
its presence in the region. It
also marks Pitman Creek’s first
acquisition since 2000. The
move is understood to reflect
the company’s focus on strategic
growth and industry leadership.
Addison Coffey, vice-president
of Pitman Creek Wholesale,
added: “The addition of
Sports Specialists reflects our
commitment to smart, purposeful
growth
“We have built our business by
having strong partnerships with
our customers and our vendors.
The addition of Sports Specialist
expands our product assortment
and customer count in a region
where fishing is a key part of the
culture.”
This deal represents an exciting
step in Pitman Creek Wholesale’s
ongoing efforts to solidify its
position as a leading fishing tackle
distributor, servicing more than
7,000 retail doors nationwide and
internationally.
www.pitmancreek.com
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 11
FEATURE
ASA FISHING
NOAA WITHDRAWS DISASTROUS
BOTTOM FISHING CLOSURE
Roughly six months after it was proposed, the US’ National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) Fisheries withdrew a three-month bottom fishing closure from
Secretarial Amendment 59 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper
Fishery of the South Atlantic.
By Rob Shane, American Sportfishing Association Public Affairs Manager.
Photos courtesy of Capt Chris Shultz of Fish Jax Charters (www.fishjaxcharters.com)
While this is a short-term victory
for the sportfishing industry
and coastal communities in the
southeastern United States,
there’s still a lot of work to be done to improve
data collection and expand recreational access
for South Atlantic fisheries.
The proposed closure would have prohibited
fishing for 55 species of reef fish from December
through February each year. NOAA proposed
the amendment as part of a legal agreement
that requires the agency to take action to end
overfishing of red snapper in the South Atlantic.
This settlement was based on notoriously
unreliable data collected by the agency under
the Marine Recreational Information Program
– Fishing Estimate Survey (MRIP-FES). A
recent study by NOAA Fisheries on MRIP-FES
revealed that the program’s estimates may be off
by as much as 30 to 40 per cent.
Additionally, anglers, fisheries managers
and NOAA’s own scientists agree that there are
more red snapper in the South Atlantic than at
any time in recent history.
Sacrifices made by recreational anglers and
our industry have led the stock to rebound 20
years ahead of schedule. We should be rewarded
with expanded access to this fishery, not asked
to endure heavy-handed closures that would
devastate small businesses.
Snapper decisions
The announcement also came with news that
this year’s South Atlantic red snapper season
would be two days –July 11th and 12th. While it’s
a step up from the single-day season in 2024,
it leaves a tremendous amount to be desired.
Continued efforts to improve data collection
and management are necessary, now more than
ever, to facilitate reasonable access.
To achieve this, NOAA must finally turn
management over to the South Atlantic states.
As we’ve seen in the Gulf, where red snapper
seasons are measured in months not days,
states have proven they can effectively manage
their fisheries while balancing conservation and
access.
Recently, the Governors of Florida, Georgia
and South Carolina sent a joint letter urging
President Trump to jumpstart this authority.
ASA and many of our partners have been
advocating this for years.
We look forward to working with the
administration, Congress, NOAA, the South
Atlantic states and anglers to find a durable
solution that ensures reasonable access based
on sound science and reliable data.
Thank you to the hundreds of elected
officials, businesses and anglers who joined
us in pushing back against this haphazard and
unnecessary proposal.
www.asafishing.org
12 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
It conquered predators. It rewrote the rules. It became a legend. Built on the body of a herring, armed with a triple-joint
design, the SAVAGE GEAR 4PLAY swims like no other—seductive, lifelike, and downright lethal. Easy to fish. Deadly on the
retrieve. Unmatched on the pause. Predators remember it. Anglers swear by it. Now it’s your turn to unleash the legend.
www.savage-gear.com
FEATURE
EFTTA
EUROPEAN BOATING
AND FISHING GROUPS
UNITE FOR GROWTH
The European Boating Industry (EBI) and the European Fishing Tackle Trade Association
(EFTTA) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening cooperation
between Europe’s recreational boating and fishing sectors.
This new collaboration is grounded
in a shared commitment to
sustainability, innovation, and
the long-term growth of these
interconnected industries.
At the intersection of Europe’s leisure
marine and recreational fishing sectors,
EBI and EFTTA combine distinct yet
complementary strengths. EBI spans the
entire boating value chain, shaping policy and
advancing sustainability in nautical tourism.
EFTTA speaks for Europe’s tackle
manufacturers, wholesalers, and fishing
tourism enterprises, advocating for
environmentally responsible recreational
fishing.
By joining forces, the partnership
enhances the visibility and influence of both
sectors within the European Union’s policy
landscape.
Working together
The agreement outlines a coordinated
approach to advocacy, data sharing and
communication, with a strong focus on
shaping policy and public dialogue around the
blue economy, marine access, environmental
sustainability and tourism.
Joint participation in flagship events such
as the EFTTA Angling Summit and EBI’s
Blue Innovation Dock will serve as key
platforms for visibility and collaboration.
In parallel, both organisations will engage
in shared public affairs efforts and contribute
to policy discussions on qualifications and
recreational access.
Regular meetings between leadership
teams and the development of joint action
EFTTA president Gerard Bakkenes
plans will support implementation, reflecting
a pragmatic, forward-looking partnership
that balances strategic alignment with
institutional independence.
Gerard Bakkenes, president of EFTTA,
said: “This partnership marks an important
step forward for Europe’s recreational fishing
and boating sectors. Together, EFTTA and
EBI represent two large sectors that support
hundreds of thousands of jobs.
“Sustainability is at the core of what we do
– from the products we develop to the way we
engage with our environment.
“By joining forces, we can better contribute
to the EU’s vision for sustainable Blue
Growth and ensure our sectors remain
strong, innovative, and aligned with Europe’s
environmental goals.”
Robert Marx, president of the European
Boating Industry, added: “Bringing together
boating and recreational fishing strengthens
our ability to shape a sustainable and
innovative future for Europe’s marine leisure
sector.
“This partnership with EFTTA opens
new doors for collaboration and ensures our
industries have a stronger voice where it
matters most.”
www.eftta.com
Robert Marx, EBI president
14 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
COME SEE US
AT BOOTH 3102
FEATURE
EFTTEX
REGISTRATION OPEN AS
EFTTEX 2025 GEARS UP
It’s not long to go now until EFTTEX 2025 in Brussels and visitor registration is now
live and more event details have been confirmed.
It’s all systems go for EFTTEX 2025 –
Europe’s only tackle trade show this year
– scheduled for September 10th to 12th in
Brussels.
With all Angling International Live
exhibitors now transitioned into EFTTEX,
the floorplan is shaping up nicely, but there is
still time to book a last-minute stand.
EFTTEX organiser Janet Doyle said:
“Exhibiting at the industry supported show
is a must if you want to discover the latest
products and network with industry leaders.
It will ensure that you get in front of qualified
buyers, forge valuable connections and
generate new leads. Please contact us on the
email opposite to book.”
If you are a visitor, be sure to pre-register
and avail yourself of the early bird discounts.
Retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers and
agents can all enjoy big discounts by booking
early but these offers will finish on August
22nd. Prices include 21 per cent Belgian VAT.
Intellectual property help
The EFTTEX team is also pleased to welcome
back IP attorney Tania Clark. Tania is a
familiar face to many as she has, in the past,
assisted many exhibitors with IP issues during
show hours.
This year exhibitors will have the facility to
book one-to-one meetings with her via the
online exhibitor manual.
She will be at the show from 10am to 4pm
on both September 10th and 11th and from
10am to 1pm on September 12th September.
Eat, drink, network
The hugely popular EFTTEX Gala Dinner
and Best New Products Awards will take place
on Thursday, September 11th at the Marriott
Hotel, Grand Place, Brussels.
This prestigious event is open to exhibitors
and their guests and tickets are available to
purchase via the exhibitor manual.
The format of the evening will include a
welcome drink, snacks served to the tables
plus hot buffet dinner to include starters,
main and dessert. Wine, beer, soft drinks and
water will be available during the meal.
Winners of the Best New Product
Competition will be awarded during the
evening, with some dancing to finish. It’s a
great way to network and combine business
after a busy day at the show.
Don’t forget to book your hotel via the
Brussels Booking Desk through the EFTTEX
website.
Brussels will be busy in September so
please book as soon as possible, if you’ve not
already done so. There is a range of hotels to
suit most budgets.
REGISTRATION
Pre-register before 22 August
● Retailers €40
● Wholesalers €60
● Manufacturers €230
● Agents €230
Registering after 22 August and at the show
● Retailers €70
● Wholesalers €120
● Manufacturers €280
● Agents €280
Visitor registration, hotel bookings and a
floorplan are all available from www.efttex.com
For more details, contact: info@efttex.com
16 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
FLASH POINT JR.
SHALLOW
FLASH POINT ® JUNIOR
BOOYAH Delivers Downsized Flash Point Jerkbaits
BOOYAH Bait Company, which redefined jerkbait fishing when it launched the innovative Flash
Point Jerkbait, is adding to that legacy and simultaneously meeting angler demand through the
release of smaller versions of the Flash Point and Flash Point Deep.
Featuring the Flash Point’s signature blade, which adds strike-triggering flash and strengthens
the return on forward facing sonar, the Flash Point Jr and Flash Point Jr Deep also boast the same
natural shaping, nose-down suspending posture and irresistible action as the full-sized versions
and are loaded with the same features, including the tungsten-weight casting system. However,
both new models are 1/4 inch smaller.
The slightly smaller size matches diminutive forage and entices strikes from fish turned fussy by
weather or water conditions or added fishing pressure. Having shallow and deep version in the
smaller size equips anglers for a broader range of situations.
The Flash Point Jr and Flash Point Jr Deep come equipped with ultra-sharp No. 8 trebles and come
in the same 12 outstanding and highly popular colors as the original Flash Point.
Learn more at booyahbaits.com
FEATURE
A historic display used to sample Myran products to retailers decades ago.
MYRAN SWEDEN
CELEBRATES 75 YEARS
OF CRAFTSMANSHIP
In 2025, Myran Sweden proudly celebrates 75 years of
continuous production, marking a rich legacy in the world
of sport fishing gear. It’s come a long way in that time…
Since its founding in 1950 by Paul
Johansson in Huskvarna, Sweden,
Myran has earned a reputation for
creating some of the most trusted and
effective spinners on the market – all proudly
made in Sweden.
A legacy forged in Huskvarna
From the beginning, Myran was built on a
simple but enduring idea: to make high-quality
fishing spinners that perform exceptionally in
Nordic waters.
The brand quickly gained popularity among
anglers for its smart, balanced designs and
consistent spinning action.
Today Myran spinners are sold all over
Europe as well as in other international markets
such as Japan and the United States.
But it wasn’t just spinners that have
attracted attention over that time.
As early as the 1950s, Myran also began
producing its own line of durable fly and
lure boxes, crafted in-house with the same
attention to quality and function as its
spinners. These boxes, now considered
collector’s items by many, are still in
production. And, as you would expect, these
are made from rugged materials and built to
withstand years of use by serious anglers.
The icons that built a brand
While every Myran spinner has a place
somewhere in an angler’s armoury, there
are a few that are truly beloved and have
Henrik Svendsen with a nice pike that could
not resist the Myran Sting spinner.
earned iconic status. Among Myran’s most
loved spinners are the Mira, Wipp, Panter
and Toni – each one has been designed for
specific fishing conditions and species and
have been trusted by generations of anglers
throughout Scandinavia and beyond.
Their enduring popularity speaks to the
strength of Myran’s design philosophy:
simplicity, performance and reliability.
A new chapter begins
In 2000, the factory was purchased by
Björn Elmervik, who carried on Myran’s
proud tradition of local, small-scale
manufacturing.
Under his leadership, the brand
continued to grow while staying true to its
Myran spinners are an effective
choice for perch fishing. They are
long casting and rotate even at
very slow speeds. This beatiful
perch fell for the Wipp spinner.
The spots on the Myran spinner blades
are hand painted – one by one...
18 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
Panter is an
indestructible Swedish
classic originally
designed for pike
fishing, but it has since
proven effective as a
highly versatile spinner
for all predatory fish.
MYRAN SWEDEN
Mira has been a
legendary spinner and
big catcher for many
years. It has an insectlike
body and the arm
is designed in such a
way that the blade lies
flat along the line in the
air, allowing it to cut
through the wind for
longer casts.
Wipp is a spinner with
excellent catching
abilities is popular for
trout fishing. The blade
is designed so rotation
starts as soon as it hits
the water. The body is
two-toned and features
Myran’s enticing sound
construction in the
spinner blade. Possibly
the best-selling spinner
blade in Northern
Europe.
Handmade in Sweden, the blades are manufactured
from genuine materials. What looks like copper is
copper, what looks like brass is brass. No cheap plated
metal is being used in the production of Myran items.
roots: all products are still made in Huskvarna,
using practically all Swedish components.
Then, in October 2024, a new chapter began
when brothers Henrik and Eric Svendsen,
representing Danish outdoor company Nordic
Fieldsport, acquired the Myran business.
From the outset, their vision has been clear:
to protect and strengthen the Myran legacy,
while reaching a new generation of anglers
across Europe and beyond.
Importantly, all production will remain
in Huskvarna, ensuring the same quality,
craftsmanship and authenticity that have
defined Myran since day one.
Future in skilled hands
Leading the production going forward is
Marcus Johansson, the son of long-time
In October 2024 Nordic Fieldsport, owned by the
Svendsen brothers Henrik and Eric, aquired Myran
Sweden. From left to right: Marcus Johansson, Björn
Elmervik, Eric Svendsen and Henrik Svendsen.
owner Björn Elmervik. Marcus brings not only
deep technical knowledge but also a strong
emotional connection to the brand – having
grown up around the factory floor and the
legendary spinners his family helped shape.
Still Swedish, still spinning
After 75 years, Myran stands as a rare example
of genuine, small-scale Swedish manufacturing
in a globalized world.
With its legacy secure and its future in
capable hands, Myran continues to make
precision-crafted fishing gear that anglers trust
– made in Sweden, made to last.
For inquiries about Myran and availability contact
Nordic Fieldsport at sales@nordic-fieldsport.com
Toni is a classic in your
tackle box. The blade
features five holes of
different sizes, which
have a unique enticing
effect on fish. The body
is orange with a natural
brass base colour and
the blade is available
in various colours. The
hook is concealed with
a fly.
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 19
SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT ON…
HOOKS
No matter the rod, reel, line and bait selection an angler
chooses, at the heart of catching any fish lies a small
but essential tool – the hook. Understanding their styles,
patterns, sizes and uses is not only essential for success
but also critical for sustainable and responsible angling.
While it may appear simple,
the fishing hook has evolved
dramatically over thousands
of years, adapting to changing
needs, technologies and ethical concerns.
Knowing what you should be stocking – and
why – is crucial for the integrity of your shop
and vital to boost your customer loyalty and
trust, not to mention boost sales.
Hooked on history
The first fishing hooks date back to prehistoric
times and were crafted from bones, shells, wood
and stone. Archaeologists have found ancient
hooks in sites across the world, from Japan and
Polynesia to Europe and the Americas.
As metallurgy developed, hooks were made
from bronze, iron, and eventually steel, greatly
improving their strength and reliability and, of
course, these were produced – in the main – to
catch fish for food, with the creational side
coming along quite a long time later.
In modern recreational fishing, hooks are
mass-produced with precise specifications and
are tailored to target species, fishing techniques
and environmental considerations.
Today, they are made from high-carbon steel,
stainless steel or alloys, with various coatings to
resist corrosion and improve penetration.
Anatomy of a hook
To understand how fishing hooks function, it’s
helpful to know their parts:
● Eye: The loop at the top through which the
line is tied.
● Shank: The straight section extending
from the eye to the bend.
● Bend: The curved portion connecting the
shank to the point.
● Point: The sharp end that penetrates the
fish’s mouth.
● Barb: A small projection near the point
that prevents the hook from slipping out. Some
hooks are micro-barbed or even barbless,
especially useful where conservation and fish
welfare is important.
● Gap(e): The distance between the point
and the shank.
These components vary in size, shape and
angle, depending on the hook’s intended use.
Materials and coatings
Fishing hooks must balance strength, flexibility
and sharpness. The most common materials
include high-carbon steel, which is said to offer
excellent sharpness and strength, though it may
corrode if not coated.
Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion
20 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
but often more expensive while various alloy
blends can be found in some specialist hooks
which need high strength or flexibility.
When it comes to coatings, these can
improve durability and performance. Nickel or
black nickel is corrosion-resistant while Teflon
enhances smooth penetration. Bronze hooks are
popular among freshwater anglers but these are
more susceptible to corrosion.
Hook choice
Selecting the right hook depends on several
factors:
● Target Species: Larger fish require
stronger and larger hooks.
● Bait Type: Live bait works better with
certain hooks (e.g., circle or octopus), while lures
may require trebles or single barbless hooks.
● Fishing Technique: Techniques like
trolling, fly or bottom fishing influence hook
choice.
● Conservation: Barbless or circle hooks are
better for catch-and-release practices.
Hook sizes
Hook sizing can be confusing. Sizes range
from very small (e.g., size 32) to very large (e.g.,
size 10/0). In general, smaller single numbers
indicate smaller hooks (10, 12, 14 and all the
way down to 28 or even smaller) while larger
numbers followed by a zero indicate increasingly
bigger hooks (1/0 to 10/0 for example)
The size needed often depends on the bait
and the mouth size of the fish you’re targeting
and, sometimes, on the wariness of the fish –
you may want to go smaller if certain fish are
shy-biting or spooky.
Environmental and ethical
considerations
Modern anglers are increasingly aware of the
environmental impact of their gear. Lost or
discarded hooks can harm wildlife, especially
if made from non-biodegradable materials,
while selecting the right hook can also minimise
damage to fish.
TYPES OF HOOKS
Hooks come in a wide variety of
shapes and styles, each suited
to specific fishing techniques,
species or ethical considerations.
J-Hooks
Named for their “J” shape, these are
among the most traditional hooks used in
recreational fishing. J-hooks are versatile and
can be used for live bait, cut bait or artificial
lures. However, they require timely hooksetting
to avoid deep hooking, which can
harm the fish.
Circle Hooks
Designed with a rounded
point that curves back toward
the shank, circle hooks are
widely praised for their
conservation benefits. They
often hook fish in the corner of the mouth,
reducing injury and increasing survival rates
in catch-and-release fishing. Circle hooks are
commonly used in saltwater fishing and are
now required by law in some jurisdictions.
Treble Hooks
Treble hooks consist of three
hooks joined at a single shank,
offering multiple points
for hooking a fish. They are
frequently used with artificial
lures like crankbaits and spoons. While
effective, treble hooks can cause more
damage to fish and are sometimes restricted
in catch-and-release areas.
Double Hooks
These hooks have two points
and are less common than
trebles but are used in some
specific applications such as
fly fishing or with certain lures.
If you are fishing an area prone to snags where
you risk losing tackle, choosing biodegradable or
corrosion-prone hooks is a good move.
All anglers should dispose of old hooks
responsibly, never leaving them in the water or
on the shoreline. Indeed, some rules on local
waters may dictate hook types, especially where
conservation is crucial.
Innovations and trends
Recent developments in hook technology focus
on improving fish safety, penetration efficiency,
and durability. Some notable trends include:
● Chemically sharpened points to enhance
hooking power.
● Eco-friendly materials, including
hooks that degrade more quickly in aquatic
environments.
● Glow-in-the-Dark and coloured hooks to
aid in deep-sea or low-light fishing conditions.
● Hybrid hooks, which combine the features
of circle and J-hooks for optimal hooking and
minimal harm.
Among the key brands in the industry are
Mustad, VMC, Eagle Claw, Owner,
Gamakatsu, BKK , Tiemco and Ahrex,
among others.
Baitholder Hooks
Designed with extra barbs on the shank, these
hooks help keep live or cut bait securely in
place. They are commonly used in freshwater
fishing for species like trout, bass and catfish.
Octopus Hooks
With a short shank and wide
gap, octopus hooks are
popular for live bait fishing,
particularly for walleye and
salmon. Their compact size
and sharpness make them ideal for finesse
presentations.
Weedless Hooks
Weedless hooks feature a guard that helps
prevent snagging on underwater vegetation or
debris. These are ideal for bass fishing in heavy
cover.
Aberdeen Hooks
With their thin wire construction, these
hooks are perfect for delicate bait like worms
and minnows. They are commonly used in
freshwater fishing for species such as crappie
and bluegill.
Barbless Hooks
Hooks often come in barbed
or barbless varieties. The latter
have come to prominence
in the last few decades as
fish welfare has become a
consideration where the catch has to be safely
returned to the water afterwards. Barbless
hooks are said to minimise mouth damage.
Fly Hooks
Some of the above can be used for fly dressing
too – although many have longer shanks to
allow for the materials which are required to
create these amazing designs.
Conclusion
Though small in size, the fishing hook is a
cornerstone of recreational angling. With
a wide array of designs, materials, and
purposes hooks cater to every kind of fishing
experience – from casual pond angling to
deep-sea adventures.
Responsible anglers take time to
understand hook types, choose the right ones
for their needs, and fish in a way that respects
aquatic life and ecosystems so it makes sense
for smart retailers to do the same.
HOOKS
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 21
SHOP WINDOW
HOOKS
2
1
3
4
1 AHREX
LEGACY HOOKS
Ahrex has used history books
and worked with skilled tyers and
anglers to produce a series of
state-of-the-art hooks based on old
antique and classic models.
The North Country Spider
(LE810) is an elegant hook for dry
flies and spiders in the classic
Sneck Bend style, with microbarbs
and in an Old Bronze finish and is
available in sizes 12 to 18.
Meanwhile the Wet Fly (LE880),
made for wet flies, heavy nymphs
and short streamers, boasts
a classic Limerick bend, with
microbarbs and in an Old Style
Bronze finish in sizes from 8 to 12.
Both come with 24 hooks per
pack.
www. ahrexhooks.com
2 MUSTAD
DEMON PERFECT INLINE
CIRCLE HOOK
A true circle hook featuring a wide
gap, which is said to offer the best
hookup ratios.
The distinct curved shape of the
circle hook will, when the fish takes
the baited hook and swallows it,
ensure that the hook travels to the
corner of the mouth or lip, resulting
in fewer deep-hooked fish.
The circle hook can be used for
a whole range of applications from
drifting with live bait for tarpon
or trolling for marlin with bridle
rigged live bait to deep-dropping
for swordfish. Use it to target tuna,
marlin, sailfish, swordfish, sharks,
wahoo, halibut, amberjack, permit,
striped bass, skipjack, bonito,
bluegill, panfish, sunfish, catfish or
alligator gar.
www. mustad-fishing.com
3 BKK
WEIGHTED PERMALOCK HOOK
This hook has been developed
for finesse presentations and for
rigging thinner profile plastics like
Senkos and flukes.
The innovative INVISI-WEIGHT
system gives the bait a stealthy
and natural glide toward the strike
zone and allows for a horizontal
presentation in the water column,
ideal for FFS fishing near structures.
This hook is equipped with
a Super Slide (SS) finish and an
extra-sharp needle point to ensure
excellent penetration performance,
heightening the overall hook-up
rate.
Made with Hyper Carbon
Steel (HCS), the wire is said to be
stronger than other traditional High
Carbon Steel wires.
www. bkkhooks-americas.com
4 VMC PECHE
NEW HOOKS
The Model 7157 jig hook is used
on unanimously approved VMC
Bullet jigheads. It’s a premium 2X
strong, technical locking curve
shape, high carbon steel and an XL
eye hook guaranteeing maximum
hooking rate and strength.
The trend-setter ReDenteX
Series targets the Mediterranean
basin while the recently introduced
Twining double hook is designed
to meet the needs of the fastgrowing
premium metal lure trend.
It features VMC Needle Sharp
Technology.
Meanwhile, the VMC Kaptain 3X,
Model 7557, available in retail and
bulk packs, is trusted by the most
prestigious lure brands worldwide.
www. vmc-hooks.com
22 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
FEATURE
EAGLE CLAW: 100 YEARS OF
AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP
More than a century ago, Andrew D McGill set out to create a better fly. The result
heralded the development of the first Eagle Claw fish hook. Now, 100 years later, the
American-made brand is a byword for quality and trusted hooks.
EAGLE CLAW
The immediate success of Andrew
D McGill’s Wiltless Wing Fly all
those years ago established an
innovative approach that soon led
to the creation of the Eagle Claw fish hook, a
breakthrough that forever changed fishing and
launched the brand as a leader in innovation,
quality, and performance.
A century of dedication to anglers
A century later, much has changed… but
one thing remains the same – Eagle Claw’s
commitment to American manufacturing, its
customers and the people behind the brand.
That dedication is stronger than ever,
delivering premium, performance-driven
tackle that anglers can count on.
At 100 years strong, Eagle Claw isn’t
slowing down. In the last five years, the
company says it has improved every stage of
hook manufacturing, including hook point
production, forming, tempering and finishing,
through state-of-the-art upgrades that set a
new standard in precision and consistency.
Powered by American-made wire and
modernised in Denver, Colorado – where it
has its headquarters – its process honours
tradition while driving the future of
American-made fish hooks.
A legacy of American
manufacturing
The McGill family’s commitment to
American manufacturing and the anglers who
rely on it spans generations. From Andrew’s
vision to innovate, to his wife, Madeline, who
guided the company through growth while
fostering a deep commitment to employee
well-being.
Their son, Lee, carried that legacy forward,
blending his father’s passion for innovation
with his mother’s dedication to the people
behind the brand. Today, that continues
with current chairman of the board, Drew
McGill, Lee’s son, who leads Eagle Claw with
a relentless focus on the future.
His vision ensures Eagle Claw remains the
most modern hook maker in the world.
They have built a legacy of reliability and
performance across generations of anglers
thanks to its family of well-known brands
including Eagle Claw, Lazer Sharp, TroKar,
Wright & McGill and Shappell.
www.eagleclaw.com
24 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
2" Juvy Craw +
Mini Micro Tube Head
DOWNSIZED TO CATCH ULTRA-PRESSURED AND FINICKY FISH
1.7" Snack
Craw
2.25" Drop Minnow
Micro Sneaky
Underspin
30-40% SMALLER
MICR
SERIES
Learn more at GreatLakesFinesse.com
FEATURE
MUSTAD
REPACKED FOR
THE PLANET
Global hook giant Mustad has introduced sustainable
packaging and upgraded hook technology, which it says
will cut plastic use by 73 per cent. TTW unpacks the plans…
Mustad, the world-renowned
fishing hook manufacturer, has
announced the global rollout of
its newly redesigned packaging
system and next-generation hook point
technology. These developments represent
a significant leap forward in sustainability,
functionality, and angler-focused design.
With a mission to reduce plastic
consumption across its global markets, Mustad
has transitioned from traditional plastic pouches
to FSC-certified kraft paper bags for its core
product lines.
This shift results in a 73 per cent reduction in
plastic usage, eliminating more than four tons
of plastic annually, underscoring the company’s
commitment to responsible innovation.
This packaging initiative marks a milestone
in Mustad’s ongoing journey to modernise the
angling experience, combining eco-conscious
materials with a refined visual system that
enhances clarity at the point of purchase.
Key highlights
● Sustainable materials: Core ranges are now
packaged in durable FSC-certified kraft paper,
replacing petroleum-based plastic bags.
● Clear identification: A new visual system
allows anglers to easily identify Mustad’s three
core hook point technologies:
AlphaPoint – Ultra-sharp performance,
marked in bold red
UltraPoint – Versatile and widely used,
shown in green
Classic Point – The trusted original,
highlighted in navy blue
● On-the-Water utility: Each pack features a
double-layer peel-off label designed for tackle
box application, helping anglers stay organised
and efficient on the water.
Sustainability at the core
The fishing industry has traditionally depended
on plastic packaging. Recognising the urgent
need for change, Mustad set out to lead by
example. The new packaging system is about
more than material selection – it reflects
a broader commitment to environmental
stewardship, brand transparency and thoughtful
design that meets the evolving expectations of
anglers worldwide.
Mustad’s approach to sustainability is driven
by three foundational principles: sustainability,
clarity and performance. Each product and
packaging decision is evaluated through this
lens to ensure that innovations not only reduce
environmental impact but also improve the
angler experience.
As the company continues to evolve, both
packaging and product technology will remain
aligned with the needs of today’s anglers, while
honoring a heritage of craftsmanship that
began in 1877.
Mustad believes that responsible product
development is a shared responsibility with its
customers, partners and future generations of
anglers.
Backed by Opti-Angle sharpening
At the core of Mustad’s performance
innovation is the patented Opti-Angle
sharpening process. This advanced three-stage
technique, used in AlphaPoint and UltraPoint
hooks, removes less metal than conventional
methods, preserving strength while delivering
superior sharpness.
The result is a hook that excels across
fishing styles and environments, from
precision freshwater tactics to heavy-duty
offshore applications.
Introducing Ultra Nor: strength
redefined
The recently launched Ultra Nor series is a
premium addition to Mustad’s UltraPoint
range. Constructed with double-forged
H-shaped wire, Ultra Nor delivers up to 20 per
cent greater strength without increasing wire
diameter – ideal for anglers facing extreme
conditions and aggressive species.
Commited to innovation and
sustainability
With this packaging overhaul now
implemented across Mustad’s flagship
UltraPoint line, the company reaffirms
its commitment to developing practical,
environmentally responsible solutions that
enhance the angling experience.
The new design system aligns with
Mustad’s heritage of excellence, combining
over 190 years of craftsmanship with a
forward-thinking vision.
Mustad has led the global hook market
since 1877. The company’s mission is to create
a comprehensive, multi-brand organisation
that leads the fishing tackle industry with a
focus on innovation, customer satisfaction,
and sustainability.
www.mustad-fishing.com
26 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
OFTEN IMITATED.
NEVER DUPLICATED.
WITH PLASTIC-FREE GLITTER.
FEATURE
PRO LURE
ARE YOU READY TO GO PRO
WITH LURE COMPANY?
From a background in Australian tournament fishing, Pro Lure has grown into a popular
brand with an ever-expanding network of dealers and distribution and has plans to grow
even further across the globe.
Founded by Heath McGeachie in Sydney
in 2011, Pro Lure Australia quickly
established itself as a go-to range in the
Australian bream fishing tournament
scene, with the success of the black S36 Crank,
now widely adopted as a tackle box necessity by
Australian lure fishing anglers.
Whilst Pro Lure has great strength in
the Australian tournament fishing scene, it
continues to design and develop a variety of soft
and hard baits to target a wide range of light to
heavy, fresh and saltwater species.
Pro Lure Australia is designed and made “by
anglers, for anglers”, and has achieved genuine
“hero lures” acceptance within the range for
the Australian market. Pro Lure Australia is
currently represented by a retail network of
over 200 stores in eight countries, which is
expanding every month. Now it is seeking
international partners to further capitalise on
the Australian success story.
Hybrid Shrimp
What’s more, Pro Lure is introducing the
Hybrid Shrimp to an international audience. It
says it is the ultimate shrimp (prawn) imitation
hard bait featuring the patent-pending Pinlock
HYBRID SHRIMP STATS
● Length: 58mm
● Weight: 5.1g
● Depth: All
● Buoyancy: Sinking
● Colour range: Nine
replaceable soft legs system, allowing legs to
be quickly and easily replaced to match local
environmental conditions.
The soft legs create natural movement
when the lure is sinking and twitched on the
retrieve, enticing the bite. Although it is a
sinking lure, the Hybrid Shrimp can also be
worked on the surface using a walk-the-dog
style retrieve, making it an extremely versatile
option.
Standard rigging is from the tail via a split
ring to mimic a natural shrimp-fleeing action.
It boasts a sink rate of around three feet per
five seconds – less if the front hook is removed.
Hooks are quality size 14 Decoy. Watch out for
the new 72/92mm sizes coming soon.
The Hybrid Shrimp is a proven performer
and a must have for any angler that fishes
inshore and estuarine environments as it is
universally recognised that “everything eats a
shrimp!”
sales@prolureaustralia.com.au
28 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
FEATURE
GETTING YOUR TEETH INTO
PREDATOR FISHING
Predator fishing – targeting fish that actively hunt
other fish – is a thriving and growing sector, appealing
to anglers seeking the thrill of aggressive strikes and
challenging battles.
Predator fishing – covering a wide
range of species like pike, muskie,
perch, zander, barracuda and various
catfish – has built a dedicated
following among anglers across many parts
of the world, most notably Europe, North
America and some areas of Asia.
As a result, the predator tackle market has
evolved into a significant global industry,
characterised by innovation, regional trends
and increasing specialisation.
Predator fishing involves targeting
carnivorous fish that feed on smaller species.
These fish are usually equipped with sharp
teeth, keen senses, and explosive power –
making them prized catches.
Unlike passive forms of angling, predator
fishing is dynamic and often requires
movement, precision and an understanding
of fish behaviour. Techniques include lure
casting, trolling, dead baiting and fly fishing,
depending on the species, location and time
of year.
Techniques and gear
Lure fishing is the most widespread method
in predator fishing. Soft plastics, hard baits
(crankbaits, jerkbaits, swimbaits), spinnerbaits
and topwater lures are commonly used to
imitate injured or fleeing prey. Lure design
has become increasingly sophisticated, with
innovations in colour, action and vibration to
provoke strikes.
Live and deadbait fishing is especially
common for species like pike, catfish and
zander. Anglers often use roach, mackerel
or sardines suspended beneath floats or
presented on the bottom. Circle and treble
hooks, wire traces, and bait rigs are essential
tackle components for this type of approach.
Fly Fishing has grown rapidly, especially
for bass, pike, and muskie. Anglers use large
streamers and synthetic flies that mimic
baitfish, requiring heavier rods and lines than
traditional trout setups.
Trolling involves pulling lures or bait behind
a boat at controlled speeds, ideal for covering
large areas in lakes or rivers. Downriggers,
planer boards and sonar equipment often
come into play.
Predator hotspots
● Europe: Countries like the UK, Sweden,
the Netherlands and Germany are renowned
for their predator fishing. Pike, zander and
perch dominate here. The Dutch canal
systems, Swedish archipelagos and German
lakes provide world-class sportfishing. The
catch-and-release ethos has driven demand for
conservation-oriented gear.
● North America: The US and Canada are
hotspots for bass, northern pike and muskie.
Bass tournaments dominate the freshwater
sport fishing scene, particularly in southern US
states. In contrast, Canada’s vast wilderness
lakes attract trophy hunters for pike and
muskie.
● Russia Eastern Europe: The rivers and
lakes of Russia, Poland and the Baltics offer
excellent predator fishing for pike, perch,
catfish and asp. A growing recreational scene
is being matched by rising demand for modern
tackle.
● Asia: Predator fishing is growing in parts of
Asia, notably Japan, which has developed a
high-tech lure market. Thailand and Malaysia
30 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
are also emerging destinations for species like
snakehead and giant freshwater stingray.
● Africa and South America: While
less developed in terms of recreational
infrastructure, countries like Brazil (peacock
bass, piranha), Egypt (Nile perch) and Zambia
(tigerfish) offer unique predator angling
experiences.
GLOBAL MARKET TRENDS
The global predator tackle
market is a multi-billion-dollar
industry. In recent years, several
key trends have defined its
growth and direction:
1Lure innovation and
customisation
Manufacturers such as Rapala, Savage Gear,
Westin, Berkley and Livingston, among
others, lead the way in lure design. Modern
lures incorporate 3D scanning, realistic
detailing, jointed bodies, vibration-enhancing
mechanisms and even realistic baitfish
sounds Anglers now demand speciesspecific
and environment-specific products,
leading to more specialised and localised
offerings.
Growth of e-commerce
2 Online platforms have transformed how
anglers purchase gear. Global giants like
Amazon and eBay, as well as niche online
retailers like Tackle Warehouse in the USA and
Angling Direct in the UK and across Europe,
have made international gear accessible.
Direct-to-consumer brands are also growing,
often leveraging social media and influencer
marketing.
Custom rod and reel makers
3 While mass-market rods and reels
remain strong thanks to brands like Shimano,
Daiwa, or Abu Garcia, there’s increasing
interest in bespoke and high-end options.
Companies now offer predator-specific
gear, such as heavy-action rods for
swimbaits or reels with oversized drag
systems for catfish and muskie.
Technological integration
4 Sonar, fish finders, GPS-enabled
trolling motors and mobile fishing apps
have redefined predator angling. Brands
like Humminbird, Garmin and Lowrance
are integrating AI and mapping technology
to enhance catch rates. Even rods and
lures are beginning to integrate smart
technology, such as vibration sensors or
LED lights.
Sustainability and
5 conservation gear
Eco-conscious tackle – such as barbless
hooks, biodegradable lures and fish-friendly
unhooking mats – is gaining ground.
Predator anglers are often leaders in
catch-and-release practices, prompting
manufacturers to design tools that
minimise harm, such as long-nose pliers
and rubberised nets.
Tournaments and influencers
6 Events like Major League Fishing
(US), Pike Fight (Sweden) and the World
Predator Classic (The Netherlands) are
fuelling brand exposure and tackle sales.
Influencers on YouTube, Instagram, and
TikTok play a massive role in shaping
product trends and consumer preferences.
PREDATOR FISHING
Market segmentation and forecasts
The predator tackle market can be broken
down into several segments – by product type
(such as lures, rods, reels, terminal tackle,
accessories and electronics), species (for
example, pike, muskie, bass, perch, zander,
catfish, snakehead and so on) or by region.
While North America remains the largest
market Europe is the fastest-growing in terms
of predator-specific tackle whileAsia-Pacific
is considered the next growth frontier due to
rising incomes and urban interest in angling.
According to various industry reports, the
predator fishing tackle market is expected
to grow at a CAGR of five to seven per cent
through to 2030. Drivers include rising
interest in outdoor recreation, post-pandemic
lifestyle changes, and continued investment in
freshwater fisheries.
Challenges and opportunities
While the market shows strong growth
potential, several challenges persist, including
overfishing and habitat loss, especially in
regions with heavy angling pressure, climate
change and counterfeit or imitation tackle,
not to mention the rise of extremely cheap
imports exploiting tax loopholes.
That said, there are some real opportunities
in this sector, most notably to engage
youngsters and more women, encourage more
city centre and urban angling since much of
this style of fishing is extremely mobile. At
the same time, mor and more exotic predator
fishing destinations are opening up and, after
the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, affluent
anglers are once again travelling to these
spots, buying new and top-quality gear in the
process.
Predator fishing is more than a pursuit –
it’s a passion that unites millions around the
world. As the sport continues to grow, so too
does the demand for innovative, durable and
species-specific tackle.
Whether you’re casting for bass in Texas,
trolling for pike in Finland or chasing zander
in the Danube, the global predator tackle
market is evolving to meet the needs of
modern anglers.
With technology, sustainability and
creativity driving the industry, the future
of predator fishing looks both exciting and
sustainable.
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 31
FEATURE
BERKLEY’S FORWARD
MOMENTUM IN BRAIDED
LINE TECHNOLOGY
Few brands in fishing have shaped the sport quite like Berkley. Lines like Trilene and
FireLine weren’t just product releases, they were angling evolution milestones. Now that
legacy continues with Forward Line, made for modern anglers across Europe.
32 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
From the launch of Trilene in the 1950s
to the breakthrough innovation of
FireLine in the late ’90s, Berkley has
consistently led the charge in fishing
line technology. Now it has taken the next step,
with the introduction of Forward Braid.
BERKLEY
A legacy that leads
Berkley’s history in fishing line development is
long-established. From the trusted reliability of
Trilene monofilament to the game-changing
fused strength of FireLine, the company has
built a reputation on science, consistency, and
practical performance. These lines weren’t
just created, they were engineered, tested and
proven, both in the real world and in the lab.
Forward Braid continues that tradition,
refined through rigorous in-house testing at
Berkley Labs, where every detail, from tensile
strength to coating durability, is benchmarked
against the most demanding standards.
This isn’t just another braid – it’s a product of
decades of research, material science and angler
feedback, evolved into something entirely new.
Engineered to Perform
At the heart of Forward Braid is a unique
fibre construction and a proprietary smooth
coating that work in tandem to deliver standout
performance.
This combination reduces friction through
the rod guides, resulting in exceptional casting
distance and accuracy. Forward Braid offers
crisp line flight and consistent, tangle-free
release.
Its low-stretch design is another major
advantage. Developed for maximum
sensitivity, the braid transmits subtle
movements – whether it’s a perch inhaling a
finesse lure or a zander nosing a jig – directly
back to the angler.
Scientifically validated sensitivity tests at
Berkley Labs have confirmed what anglers will
experience instantly: bite detection is second
to none.
Another distinct edge is line diameter.
Forward Braid runs thinner than comparable
lines in its class, allowing for faster sink rates.
It is ideal for vertical jigging, drop-shotting
or targeting suspended fish. With less water
resistance and quicker descent, presentations
stay in the strike zone longer and control at
depth is vastly improved.
Why it ties differently
With all this advanced technology comes one
important difference that anglers should know
right away: traditional knots don’t hold as well
on Forward Braid. The very features that make
this line stand out – its slick coating and tight,
round weave – also reduce the friction that
standard knots rely on.
The solution is straightforward: add one
extra wrap when tying.
Whether you’re using a Clinch, Alberto or
Palomar knot, that additional turn increases
surface contact and ensures full knot security.
Berkley has produced easy-to-follow visual
guides and video instructions to help anglers
make the switch with zero guesswork. It’s
a minor change that leads to major peace of
mind.
Built for versatility
Though Forward Braid wasn’t created
exclusively for the European market, its
performance characteristics make it a natural
fit for the continent’s diverse fisheries. From
deep lakes to fast-flowing rivers and coastal
estuaries, the line’s adaptability shines through.
It performs equally well on spinning and
casting reels and excels across a range of
techniques – vertical presentations for zander,
drop shot techniques for perch or long casts in
windy conditions for sea trout. Its strength-todiameter
ratio also makes it ideal for mixedspecies
days, where flexibility and durability are
essential.
Advantage in a word: balance
What makes Forward Braid stand out isn’t
just one feature – it’s how those features work
together. It’s balanced. It offers the castability of
a lighter braid, the toughness of a heavier line
and the finesse handling needed for technical
applications. You don’t have to compromise
between control and distance, strength and feel
or reel type.
Unlike many lines developed in isolation,
Forward Braid was scientifically stress-tested,
field-proven and fine-tuned by Berkley’s
dedicated R&D team.
Every claim – from casting gains to knot
performance – is backed by lab data and onthe-water
validation. It’s that mix of scientific
rigour and angler insight that elevates Forward
from a new release to a new benchmark.
Key Features
● Unique construction and smooth coating for
effortless casting and precision placement
● Proprietary low-stretch fibres deliver
instant feedback for unmatched sensitivity
● Smaller diameters mean faster sink rates
and greater depth control
● Slick, durable coating improves line flow
and minimises wind knots
● Optimised for both spinning and
baitcasting reels
● Requires only a minor knot adjustment for
full reliability
● Lab-tested at Berkley Labs for strength,
sink rate and bite transmission
Moving forward
Berkley’s history is rooted in line innovation
but Forward Braid isn’t just a continuation of
that legacy – it’s a bold step ahead. By blending
proven knowledge with new materials and
design, Forward redefines what anglers should
expect from a braided line.
For retailers, it represents a compelling
new product in a crowded category – one
that speaks directly to the needs of European
anglers.
For consumers, it offers premium
performance with practical, real-world benefits
they’ll feel from the first cast.
www.berkleyfishing.eu
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 33
BUSINESS
DOING BUSINESS WITH…
HUNGARY
With its rich freshwater resources and a long-standing angling tradition,
Hungary is a key player in the fishing tackle industry, not just in central
Europe but increasingly across the world, so it will pay to connect…
From the vast Danube
River to Lake Balaton,
Hungary offers an ideal
natural environment for
both recreational and competitive
fishing. This thriving culture
supports a vibrant and evolving
tackle market, encompassing
manufacturers, retailers and a large
base of passionate consumers.
History lesson
Fishing has been an integral
part of Hungarian rural life for
centuries. Historically, it served
both as a source of livelihood and
a traditional recreational activity,
especially in the countryside.
In the 20th century, with
the emergence of industrialised
manufacturing and organised
sports fishing, the country began
developing a more structured
tackle industry.
Following World War II, the
fishing industry in Hungary – like
other sector – was subject to central
planning under the socialist regime.
Despite resource constraints,
fishing remained a popular leisure
activity and basic tackle equipment
was produced domestically to meet
demand.
With the fall of communism in
1989, Hungary experienced a rapid
transition to a market economy.
This shift opened up the domestic
market to international brands,
modern retail formats, and a more
diverse range of products.
Local tackle manufacturers
began competing with imported
goods, and fishing clubs and
tournaments saw a resurgence,
further boosting demand for
quality tackle.
Market overview
Today, Hungary has a welldeveloped
fishing tackle market
characterized by a mix of domestic
producers, foreign imports and a
broad retail network catering to
casual anglers and professional
sport
From the Danube and Tisza
rivers to Lake Balaton, a popular
holiday destination, and Velence
Lake, which was the venue for
the 2007 World Coarse Fishing
Championship, there is plenty of
water to go at, despite Hungary
being a landlocked country.
Indeed, the country boasts
about 130,000 hectares of water,
70,000 of which is used by anglers
and fishing organisations while
30,000 is used exclusively by
anglers. Like many other countries,
a vast majority of water is under
environmental protection,
however this has no impact on
angling activities.
Estimates suggest that
Hungary’s fishing tackle market
is worth between €50 million
34 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
ECONOMY
FOCUS
HUNGARY
GDP $469.65 billion (USD)
GDP Growth rate 1.2%
GDP per capita $49,147 (USD)
Unemployment rate 4.3%
Top Export Partners:
Germany $41.71 billion Romania $9.33 billion
Poland $8.90 billion Italy $8.63 billion
Slovakia $8.40 billion
to €80 million annually,
depending on tourism and
seasonal fluctuations. The
broader recreational fishing
sector – including licences, travel,
accommodation and tackle –
could be worth well over €150
million per year.
In 2019, it became a
requirement that everyone
fishing should have an Angler
Card alongside their fishing
licence, which held the industry
establish a reasonable estimate of
around 450,000 licence-carrying
anglers.
However, the Hungarian
National Fishing Association
(MOHOSZ), the country’s largest
organisation with a network
structure, believes the number
of registered fishermen could
actually exceeds 750,000.
It is also compulsory for every
licensed angler to document their
catches in a logbook which must
be submitted to their fishing
association at the end of the year,
helping those in charge create
a strong picture of the health of
their waters and the number of
fish.
Thanks to its strong angling
traditions and important
waterways, Hungary has
played host to several regional
and international angling
competitions, such as the Feeder
Top Import partners:
Germany $34.83 billion China $9.72 billion
Poland $9.54 billion Austria $9.24 billion
Slovakia $9.20 billion
FACT FILE
Capital: Budapest
Population: 9,584,000
President: Tamas Sulyok
Prime Minister: Viktor Orbán
Official language: Hungarian
Currency: Forint (HUF)
Time zones: Central European Time (CET)
Dialling code: +36
Internet domain: .hu
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 35
BUSINESS
World Championship and national
carp fishing cups, driving both
domestic spending and tackle
innovation.
Feeder fishing is a key sector
in Hungary, while the rise of carp
angling has given the industry a
further boost.
In fact, Hungary’s premier big
fish water, Euro-Aqua Lake, holds
the current carp world record at a
staggering 51.7kg (114lb) and only
recently produced the world record
common carp, which weighed in at
47.8kg (105lb).
These results have helped
the country become a Mecca for
serious carp enthusiasts from
around Europe, most notably from
the UK, Germany and Slovakia,
among others.
Predator fishing is another
very popular discipline here and
probably accounts for around a
quarter of all angling, with pike,
zander and catfish all on the list,
and typically targeted with lures or
deadbaits.
The country is also seeing a rise
in popularity in ultralight street
fishing, which is slowly making its
way in from across the continent.
Meanwhile, the northern rivers
near the Slovakian border are the
preferred domain of fly anglers
who tend to fish ‘for the table’ with
the local fishing authorities and
private lake owners re-stocking
waters on a regular basis.
Top tackle
So it’s perhaps not surprising that
rods and reels – for specimen bait
fishing, spinning, feeder and bait
casting as well as match-style
angling – have become popular,
alongside a growing market for
line and hooks, imported from
countries like China, Japan and
Germany in particular.
Meanwhile local line
manufacturer Balazs Filament
Technologies (BFT) has
established a presence not just
locally but across the globe, with
its Carbotex brand and OEM
offerings
While terminal tackle and
accessories come from across
the world the market is also well
served by domestic brands through
companies like Energofish, Fisch
Kft and Deaky as well as bait
names including CarpZoom and
Energofish’s Benzar Mix, The One
and others.
Another growth area is own
brand goods from speciality
retailers and here Haldorádó has
done especially well, launching its
own brand of bait and tackle as well
as being major retailer and offering
a popular YouTube channel.
Major chains including
Decathlon and Intersport have
some market presence and stock
plenty of entry level tackle but the
small independent stores – some
700 of them according to some
estimates – still hold sway here for
many anglers.
Although, increasingly, online
retailers like fishingtime.hu and
the aforementioned Haldorádó
generally cater for those with
a little more experience or
knowledge.
Challenges and
opportunities
Despite growth, several challenges
affect the fishing tackle market in
Hungary.
Pollution, habitat destruction
and water regulation policies
impact fish stocks, which can
reduce angler participation in
affected regions.
36 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
HUNGARY
The average age of regular
anglers is rising, while there
are youth outreach programs,
maintaining long-term
engagement is a concern.
Meanwhile, competitive
pricing from Asian imports puts
pressure on local manufacturers,
particularly for generic items like
hooks and lines.
Navigating fishing permits,
seasonal restrictions and EU
regulations can also be challenging
for both consumers and
businesses.
However, technology is
changing the industry in many
ways. Tools like sonar fish finders,
app-connected bite alarms, and
digital scales are becoming more
affordable and accessible.
New biodegradable baits and
plastic-free packaging are gaining
traction among eco-conscious
anglers and, with increased
legislative proposals, this only
looks set to continue.
One niche but growing trend
among Hungarian hobbyists is
3D printed lures, designed and
produced at home for the ultimate
in customisation.
Government backing
The Hungarian government,
through the Ministry of
Agriculture and the Hungarian
National Angling Association
(MOHOSZ), also supports the
sector in a number of ways.
These include issuing
fishing licences and managing
conservation zones, promoting
angling among young through
school-based programs, offering
grants for small tackle shops and
angling clubs and collaborating
with environmental nongovernmental
organisations
(NGOs) to improve aquatic
habitats.
MOHOSZ also plays a key
role in setting rules for fishing
tournaments and maintaining
national fishing databases.
Future outlook
The Hungarian tackle industry
has a huge amount of potential
is poised for steady growth,
supported by rising participation,
expanding e-commerce, and a
vibrant domestic manufacturing
base. In part this is likely to be
driven by high-quality Hungarian
brands finding broader markets
in neighbouring countries with
similar fishing conditions.
EFTTEX 2023 held in
Budapest will also have put the
country on the map while its
central location means distribution
set ups can also thrive here, acting
as a convenient gateway to Eastern
Europe.
Enhanced marketing of
Hungary as a fishing destination
could boost revenue for tackle
makers and retailers while green
innovation and environmentally
conscious practices will
increasingly influence product
design and regulatory policy.
Hungary’s tackle industry is a
dynamic and culturally significant
sector with deep roots and a
promising future. Anchored
by local expertise, innovative
manufacturers and a passionate
angler community, the market
continues to evolve alongside
technological and environmental
trends.
With supportive policy,
continued investment and
sustainable growth strategies,
Hungary is well-positioned to
remain a regional leader in the
European fishing tackle industry.
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
37
FEATURE
STANDING IN TIANJIN,
LOOKING AT THE WORLD
In his opening speech, Mr Wang
Xiangfa, CEO of Bihai Fishing Tackle
Co, Ltd welcomed guests to the 2025
Bihai Fishing Expo, setting out how
important the event is to the tackle
industry.
In this vibrant spring season, we gather at the
National Convention and Exhibition Center
(Tianjin) to celebrate the grand opening of
the 2025 Bihai Fishing Expo. On behalf of
the organiser of this exhibition – Beijing Bihai
Fishing Tackle Co, Ltd. – I extend the warmest
welcome and sincerest thanks to all of you for
attending!
The Bihai Fishing Expo has now held
70 editions. Here, I would like to express
my sincerest thanks to the thousands of
companies that have supported Bihai for
over 30 years, as well as to domestic and
international buyers and fishing enthusiasts!
My heartfelt gratitude also goes to the
National Convention and Exhibition Center
(Tianjin) for their strong support and
collaboration!
Building bridges
Since its inception, the Bihai Fishing Expo
has been committed to promoting the
development and innovation of the fishing
tackle industry and building a bridge for
industry exchange.
Today, tackle manufacturers, operators,
distributors, buyers, fishing experts and
enthusiasts from all over the country gather
in Tianjin.
We are here to showcase the current
development of China’s fishing tackle
industry, share the latest technologies and
discuss the industry’s futrue. As the saying
goes: “Based in Bihai, view the fishing
industry; standing in Tianjin, look at the
world.”
Fishing, as an ancient charming activity,
has become a lifestyle and leisure choice for
an increasing number of people. With the
improvement of people’s living standards,
the tackle industry has encountered
unprecedented opportunities for growth.
Over the past years, more enterprises have
innovated in terms of capital, technological
research, product design and market
promotion, continuously driving industry
progress.
38 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
departments for their participation in this
expo. Your hard work and dedication have
made this event possible. I also express
my gratitude to our media friends for your
attention and positive coverage of the
fishing tackle industry.
Finally, I wish the 2025 Bihai Fishing
Expo a complete success! I hope you all have
fruitful exchanges and contribute to the
prosperity and development of the fishing
tackle industry in the days ahead.
CHINA
This year’s expo is grand in scale,
covering an exhibition area of approximately
140,000 sq m, with over 2,000 participating
companies and an expected daily attendance
of 50,000 visitors. During the event, more
than 100 activities will take place, including
forums, conferences, award ceremonies,
corporate summits and new product launches.
Here, you can explore the latest fishing
tackle products and technologies, participate
in a variety of activities and share experiences
with professional anglers. This is not only
a display platform but also a valuable
opportunity for learning and collaboration.
We hope this expo will foster
communication and cooperation among all
parties, collectively promoting the sustainable
development of the fishing tackle industry.
Growing up
To better meet industry needs, the organising
committee has adjusted the layout of the
exhibition areas. Specifically, the number of
booths for lure fishing companies has been
increased to two halls, with the lure fishing
zone previously in Hall S8 now relocated to
Halls S9 and S10.
In Hall S9, we have set up the popular lure
fishing competition pool and central stage
from previous exhibitions. We especially
recommend the Carp Fishing zone, Micro
Fishing zone and the Fishing Culture zone to
you, they have all been arranged in Hall S16.
We hope that through the set up of these
hot exhibition areas and a variety of exciting
activities, the East Exhibition Hall will
become an innovative highlight area of this
exhibition, bringing new experiences and
more value to visitors.
Expanding the market
China is one of the few countries in the world
with a complete fishing tackle manufacturing
industry chain. Under the current impact of
the ‘America First’ policy, product exports
face uncertainties, making a shift toward the
domestic market inevitable.
At the same time, advanced fishing tackle
manufacturing countries such as Japan also
hope to gain more development opportunities
in the Chinese market, which will make the
competition in the already nearly saturated
domestic market even more fierce.
Expanding domestic demand involves
two aspects: the existing fishing enthusiasts
base (the stock market) and new fishing
participants (the incremental market). Two
positive trends are worth noting.
First, fishing has gained attention from
relevant government departments, leading
to supportive policies. For example, last year,
the Hubei Provincial Sports Bureau launched
the “Hubei Fishing Industry Three-Year
Action Plan (2024–2026),” focusing on three
counties and implementing measures that
effectively boosted local primary, secondary,
and tertiary industries.
From manufacturing to services, these
initiatives enriched fishing activities as a
sport, invigorated the market and stimulated
consumption.
In the future, more local governments will
likely leverage fishing to capitalise on their
natural resources for regional prosperity.
For example, Changhai Province from
Liaoning has utilised its rich marine resources
to develop managed sea fishing projects,
integrating safety, ecological protection
and consumption promotion to create a
sustainable development model.
Second, the integration of Chinese and
international fishing sports.
In the past, China’s fishing tackle industry
differed greatly from foreign countries in
terms of fishing methods, fishing tackle and
fishing scenarios. Taking the Bihai Fishing
Expo as an example, most of the products
sold were for freshwater pond fishing. Now,
these differences are diminishing, with our
expo becoming nearly indistinguishable from
international ones.
We believe that, with the implementation
of national policies on aquatic resource
protection and sports, fishing will become
more diverse, including not only lure,
micro-lure and Euro carp fishing but also fly
and stream fishing. This will attract more
enthusiasts. The prospects for China’s fishing
tackle industry are boundless.
Once again, I extend my heartfelt thanks to
all exhibitors, buyers and staff from relevant
About the China Bihai
Fishing Expo
Hosted by the China Bihai Fishing Expo
(CBFE), it aims to showcase high-quality
Chinese tackle products, promoting
Chinese brands to fishing enthusiasts
worldwide and highlighting the unique
charm of the Bihai Fishing Expo as the
world’s largest tackle exhibition.
Over the past 35 years, the expo has
successfully held 70 editions. Since moving
to Tianjin in 2013, it has maintained an
exhibition area of over 100,000 sq m.
It has witnessed the rise and growth
of the Chinese fishing tackle industry,
representing the highest standards and
latest achievements in Chinese tackle design
and manufacturing.
The expo serves as a “barometer” of
the Chinese fishing tackle industry’s
development and has become an annual
gathering for Chinese and global brands,
businesses of all sizes, and fishing
enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, and
celebrate.
We warmly welcome fishing enthusiasts
and industry professionals from around the
globe to attend!
Contact Information
Tel: +86-10-62071529
Fax: +86-10-82259813
Email: china@bjbhdj.cn
Website: www.bhdjz.com
WeChat Official Account: bh-62071529
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 39
FEATURE
THE 2025 TAIWAN FISHING
TACKLE EXHIBITION
From May 16th to 18th, the 2025
Taiwan Fishing Tackle Exhibition
took place at Exhibition Hall 1, Area
C of the Taipei World Trade Center.
This year’s exhibition, themed “Family Fishing,
Endless Fun,” was hosted by the Taiwan
Fishing Tackle Association. It attracted dozens
of fishing tackle businesses as exhibitors and
promoted fishing culture and marine education
through a rich array of activities.
Over the three days, the venue buzzed
with crowds and the public enthusiastically
participated in interactive sessions such as fish
printing, lure painting and demonstrations by
fishing experts on lure operation, thoroughly
enjoying the fun of fishing.
Interaction and experiences
The exhibition specially set up an Experience
Zone and a Pond Zone, tailoring interactive
courses for parent-child families. The
Experience Zone hosted five daily sessions
of fish printing and lure painting, allowing
adults and children to experience the fun and
creativity of fishing through hands-on creation.
Lu Po-Nien, chairman of the Taiwan
Fishing Tackle Association, stated: “Fishing
is an outdoor activity suitable for all ages. The
exhibition hopes to promote the joy of fishing
through parent-child co-creation, and at the
same time, let more people understand marine
culture and fall in love with nature.”
The Pond Zone featured a 4m pond,
where fishing experts demonstrated popular
European and American lure fishing
techniques, introducing the diverse swimming
actions of lures underwater and how to use
them to catch large fish. The public watched
intently, learning and playing, immersing
themselves in the unique charm of fishing.
On May 17th, the second day of the
exhibition, a group of over 20 representatives
from the Osaka Fishing Tackle Cooperative
Association visited the exhibition. They were
accompanied by association chairman Lu
Po-Nien, Chang Liang-Jen, former chairman
and chairman of Okuma and Tseng Mu-Kun,
general manager of Fishermen’s Tackle.
The schedule was packed with three
consecutive DIY courses. Association staff
were busy cleaning tools and tidying up the
environment. Despite the hard work, staff
members stated that this experience would
40 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
CHINA
serve as an important reference for future
activities.
Promoting fishing
Taiwan has over a million fishing enthusiasts,
and local governments have been actively
promoting friendly fishing policies in recent
years, adding significant meaning to the
exhibition.
The Ocean Conservation Administration
pointed out at the opening ceremony that
158 legal and safe fishing spots have been
established across Taiwan, along with
three fishing platforms. Among these, the
Taichung Port North Breakwater Sea Fishing
Demonstration Zone, as the first sea fishing
demonstration area, features a parent-child
fishing area and is very popular among anglers.
The spokesperson emphasised that fishing
activities and marine conservation can coexist
harmoniously and the valuable data provided
by anglers also supports conservation efforts.
May 18th, the last day of the exhibition,
continued to be vibrant, with three major
highlights attracting many people.
Lu Po-Nien stated that the Taiwan Fishing
Tackle Exhibition is not only a platform for
industry and the public to interact but also
an excellent opportunity to promote marine
education, parent-child outings, and marine
culture. He expressed hope that such activities
would allow more people to experience the joy
of fishing, learn about marine knowledge, and
subsequently love this outdoor sport full of
natural charm.
The 2025 Taiwan Fishing Tackle Exhibition,
with its rich content and engaging educational
activities, brought an unforgettable feast to
fishing enthusiasts and parent-child families,
injecting new vitality into the promotion of
Taiwan’s tackle industry and marine culture.
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 41
FEATURE
RANK HIGHER IN
SEARCH ENGINES
WITH SEO
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is one of the most
powerful tools in digital marketing. By making your
website appeal to search engines like Google, Bing and
Yahoo, you can increase your visibility, drive more organic
traffic and, ultimately, generate more revenue. How do
you go about getting results?
SEO – Search Engine Optimisation
– isn’t just about inserting
keywords into content, it’s actually
a combination of approaches. That
said, it is most definitely not some form of
‘dark art’.
In reality, it’s just a comprehensive strategy
that includes technical optimisation, content
creation and link-building techniques, all
designed to help your business to rank higher
in search engine results pages (SERPs),
enhancing your visibility to people looking for
products or services like yours.
1
Understand how search engines
actually work
Before diving into SEO tactics, it’s
essential to understand how search engines
like Google actually work. Typically, they
use bots (or ‘crawlers’) to scan the web and
index content. When a user enters a query,
Google’s algorithm analyses pages in its index
and ranks them based on over 200 ranking
factors.
Some of these include:
● Content relevance
● Website authority
● User experience (UX)
● Mobile friendliness
● Page load speed
● Backlinks
The goal of SEO is to align your website
with these ranking factors so that your
content appears as high as possible in the
SERPs.
2Perform keyword research
Keyword research is the foundation
of any SEO strategy. It helps you
understand what your target audience is
searching for and allows you to create content
that matches their search intent.
If you’re not sure about this, take a look at a
few important tools such as Google Keyword
Planner, Ahrefs, SEMrush and Ubersuggest.
Let’s say you run a fishing blog. Instead
of targeting a broad keyword like “bass”
you might discover that “short session bass
secrets” has lower competition and better
aligns with your audience’s intent. Creating
a blog post around this specific long-tail
keyword will have a better chance of ranking
high in search results.
Create high-quality,
relevant content
3 Content is king in SEO. Google
rewards websites that provide valuable, indepth
and original content. Your goal should
be to answer your audience’s questions better
than any other page on the internet.
Useful tips to help you do this might include
using your primary keyword in the title, meta
description, URL and the first 100 words.
You should aim to break up content
with various sub-headings and use bullet
points, numbered lists and tables to enhance
readability. Remember to include both
internal and external links, too.
For example, imagine you wrote an
article on “10 tips to catch more fish”. Inside
the article you would want to incorporate
keywords like “bait (or lure) choice”, “land
more fish”, “finding features” or “reading the
water”.
You could link to, say, bait or lure
manufacturers or tackle brands or even your
favourite magazine articles externally but also
ensure you link to related content on your
42 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
SEO
own site. Use images and infographics, too.
Now your content is seen as more valuable
as well as making it easier for search engines to
both crawl and index.
4
Optimise on-page elements
On-page SEO involves optimising
individual pages to rank higher and
earn more relevant traffic.
Keep your title to under 60 characters and
ensure it contains your main keyword. Write
a strong 150 character summary and organise
your content using header tags and keywords.
In addition, use clean, keyword-rich URLS
such as yourwebsite.com/catch-more-fish.
You can also use Alt Text, where you
describe images you have used to improve
accessibility and SEO and, again, remember
to connect related articles within your site.
Build quality backlinks
Backlinks are links from other
5 websites to yours and are a major
ranking factor. They signal to search engines
that your content is trustworthy and
authoritative.
There are several ways to earn
backlinks, including writing guest posts
for well-known websites in your sector,
creating and sharing useful infographics
that others may wish to link to or you
can use what is called the Skyscraper
Technique – finding already popular
content and creating an even better
version.
Similar to the above, you can also find
broken links on websites and suggest your
content as a replacement – it may sound
cheeky but it works.
Improve technical SEO
Technical SEO focuses on
6 improving the backend structure
of your website to help search engines
crawl and index it more effectively.
Some good examples of this are
ensuring your site works well on
al devices. Some website builders
incorporate multi-device options; if they
don’t there are some great third-party
plug-ins you can install.
You want to ensure your pages load
quickly and effectively so use tools like
Google PageSpeed Insights to check all
is well. If you have someone with a good
understanding of website technicalities
then secure tour site with HTTPS and
submit your sitemap to the Google Search
Console and use schema.org to enhance
search snippets.
A website that takes more than
5fiveseconds to load on mobile might see
higher bounce rates. Try optimising image
sizes and removing unnecessary scripts so
the site loads in under two seconds. This
can make a big difference to your rankings
for mobile search queries.
Monitor and adjust
SEO strategy
7 SEO is not a one-time effort.
It requires ongoing monitoring and
optimisation. Use analytics tools to
track your performance and refine your
strategy.
Useful Tools:
● Google Analytics: Measure traffic,
bounce rate, and user behavior.
● Google Search Console: Monitor
indexing status and search performance.
● Ahrefs / SEMrush: Track backlinks,
keyword rankings and technical issues.
Conclusion
SEO is a dynamic, long-term strategy
that can significantly enhance your online
visibility and credibility. By understanding
how search engines work, conducting
thorough keyword research, creating
quality content, optimising on-page
elements, building backlinks, improving
technical aspects and consistently
monitoring results, you can rise in the
SERPs and stay ahead of the competition.
SEO success doesn’t happen overnight.
But with patience, persistence and smart
tactics, the payoff in organic traffic and
conversions can be enormous.
WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 43
FEATURE
LIVINGSTON LURES
WHY EUROPEAN DISTRIBUTORS
LOVE LIVINGSTON LURES
Livingston Lures has earned its reputation as one of the most innovative brands in the
US fishing market, thanks to cutting-edge technology, relentless product testing and a
laser focus on helping anglers succeed.
Its patented Electronic Baitfish Sound
(EBS) Technology is only the beginning –
Livingston consistently delivers lures that
push boundaries and produce real results,
season after season.
In North America, its success is proven:
major tournament wins, best-in-class reviews,
and retail sell-through from iconic lures like the
Titan, Magnus and Howeller DMC.
But, over the past two years, ambitious
European distributors have uncovered a
powerful truth: Livingston isn’t just exporting
innovation, it is building it specifically for
Europe.
Livingston: Tailored for Europe
Livingston didn’t just ship US models and hope
they’d work. Instead, the team invested time on
the water across Europe, working closely with
distributors and anglers to ensure Livingston
lures are tuned for local species, techniques and
conditions.
Here’s how it has adapted for Europe:
● Custom colour patterns for European
predators like pike, zander and perch
● Adjusted hardware and hooks to meet
regional rigging preferences
● Refined actions – tighter wobbles, slower sink
rates – to better match European waters
● In-field testing with top European pro anglers
on venues like the Netherlands’ pike lakes and
Spanish reservoirs
These changes weren’t afterthoughts. They
were part of a deliberate, collaborative process
with Livingston’s distribution partners – and
now, new Europe-exclusive products are on the
way.
Built for European growth
Livingston has made long-term investments to
ensure success in Europe:
● Regular presence at major shows like
EFTTEX, the European tackle trade fair
● A commitment to listening to and supporting
distributors, not just selling to them
● Strategic partnerships with Kanal Gratis
(YouTube content production for Europe), YPC
Boat & Bank tournaments (brand visibility) and
Pecheur.com’s online tournament series (digital
engagement and reach)
Your partner in the field
Leading the European expansion is Erick
Arnoldson, a seasoned sales professional with
deep technical knowledge and a passion for
international growth. Erick has met face-toface
with dozens of European distributors,
listening to what truly matters: reliable supply,
clear communication and products that drive
sales.
With multilingual capabilities and a growing
support team, Erick ensures that every European
partner receives full backing – from logistics and
training to marketing and account support.
Proof from partners
Key partners are testament to the success that
Livingston can bring.
Bait Zone said: “We are very pleased with
the progress we’re making in Bulgaria and the
surrounding territories. We’ve just placed our
third order and are excited about the continued
growth of Livingston Lures in our region.”
Hecht & Barsch said: “We are excited to have
recently come on board and look forward to
seeing how Livingston Lures performs in the
German market.”
While ESMA Group explained: “We’ve been
considering Livingston for a few years now and
finally decided to bring the brand in about two
weeks ago. We’ve introduced it to the Latvian
market through our retail store and are also
distributing it across neighbouring countries.
We’re confident that Livingston Lures will
perform well throughout Europe.”
www.livingstonlures.com
44 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM
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…
SEPTEMBER 2025
Ad Copy: July 18th, 2025
Mailed: August 6th, 2025
Special issue: EFTTEX Preview/ ICAST
Spotlight: Clothing
Doing Business With: Japan
OCTOBER 2025
Ad Copy: August 15th, 2025
Mailed: September 3rd, 2025
Special issue: Destination Fishing
Spotlight: Line
Doing Business With: Rocky M’tains
NOVEMBER 2025
Ad Copy: September 19th, 2025
Mailed: October 8th, 2025
Special issue: EFTTEX Review
Spotlight: Fly Tying
Doing Business With: Italy
To submit news or editorial for
any of these issues, contact:
To advertise or discuss a marketing campaign in any of these editions,
contact our business development team:
EDITOR
JOHN HUNTER
T: + 44 (0)7990 542958
E: john.hunter@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
2
1
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 DAIWA
PRESSO LURE WALLET
This lure wallet is a compact and
feature-rich means of storing and
mobilising smaller tackle, like the
lures and flies used to catch trout
and panfish, as well as the wealth
of micro lures used for bait finesse
(BF) techniques, like miniature
crankbaits and jigs.
Luxurious in appearance, it is
as rugged as it is convenient and
is made using durable, snagresistant
material plus an internal
pocketsize organiser with foam
panels on both sides for notching
hooks, jigs, spoons and flies with a
clear plastic separator which also
protects the finishes on lures.
There’s an easy-to-open zipper
with oversized pull-tab plus a
carabiner clip to hang it from your
hip, wader-pack or even a larger
tackle bag.
www.daiwa.us
2 RAILBLAZA
HEXX SONAR 360 MOUNT
This is a robust, high-performance
solution designed to streamline
sonar transducer deployment
for kayak anglers and small boat
enthusiasts.
Engineered specifically for
the Humminbird MEGA 360 and
compatible static transducers,
the mount enables quick and
controlled deployment with a
90-degree pivot. Whether you’re
fishing from a kayak, boat, or other
small craft, it provides unmatched
versatility and rugged reliability for
live sonar users.
Alongside the pivot, it is
made from corrosion-resistant
aluminium and glass-reinforced
plastic for superior durability
in harsh marine environments.
It also seamlessly integrates
with Railblaza’s HEXX base
system, enabling secure, toolfree
attachment and multiple
mounting configurations.
www.railblaza.com
3 LIVETARGET
SUNFISH LURES
The bond between bass
and panfish undergoes a
transformative redefinition
courtesy of LIVETARGET’s Sunfish
with Injected Core Technology
(ICT).
Employing an advanced
injection laminate process, ICT
enriches the inner core with
intricate, multi-coloured metallic
layers ensconced within a clear,
robust exoskeleton.
The three-dimensional effect
allows light to refract throughout
the entire lure, significantly
enhancing its lifelike appearance
underwater, helping achieve
exceptional realism while
maintaining superior functionality,
thanks to its refined action
courtesy of a unique oscillator
tail, moulded from a transparent
exoskeleton.
www.mustad-fishing.com/
livetarget
46 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM