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PROFESSIONALS

IN OVER

120 COUNTRIES

EVERY MONTH

DECEMBER 2025

COMMITTED TO INCREASING YOUR BUSINESS GLOBALLY

NEW YEAR, NEW GEAR?

WHY TACKLE LAUNCHES ARE

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TRADE GATHERINGS

HEAD FOR THE SUMMIT

Angling trade organisations have

found new ways to connect with

their members, with a number

of angling summits or industry

gatherings taking place this autumn and winter.

While the American Sportfishing

Association’s (ASA) annual Summit has been

a fixture for decades – celebrating its passion

for the sport while planning head for its future

– other trade bodies have started to follow

suit, incorporating a mix of keynote speakers,

education, information and networking.

Over the last couple of years, the American

Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) has

swapped its International Fly Tackle Dealer

Show for a meeting entitled Confluence, which

it describes as a “collaborative platform where

industry stakeholders come together to shape

the future of fly fishing.”

Last year, the European Fishing Tackle Trade

Association (EFTTA) staged its inaugural

Angling Summit in Berlin and was set to repeat

the concept again last month (November) in

Berlin.

And now, the UK’s Angling Trades

Association (ATA) has revealed it will be

staging its own gathering – modelled loosely

on the EFTTA concept – in January with the

aim of bringing the UK trade together and

providing a wealth of useful information for

manufacturers, distributors, agents, retailers

and fisheries alike.

The ASA Sportfishing Summit is very

popular with the organisation’s members,

combining committee work, speakers, roundtable

discussions, awards, networking and

community spirit and is usually held close to

some great fishing spots.

ASA president Glenn Hughes knows the

importance of this annual get-together: “The

Sportfishing Summit provides an amazing

opportunity to bring together the leadership

from across the industry to discuss the business

of the association. At the same time, it allows

for all ASA members to participate, network

and build relationships in a fun-filled, threeday,

awesome setting, like Key West. There is

nothing like it!”

Where the industry meets

Boasting industry updates, political insights

and educational seminars, AFFTA’s two-day

Confluence is designed to “bring together

manufacturers, retailers, guides, outfitters,

conservationists and media professionals to

collaborate on the future of fly fishing.”

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

DECEMBER 2025

Editor: John Hunter

+44 7990 542958

john.hunter@artichokehq.com

A journalist all his life and with 25-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

GETTING UP CLOSE

AND PERSONAL

One of the many changes that

Covid-19 brought to our industry

was the rise of Zoom, Teams,

Google Meets and other remote

meeting apps.

Once we were allowed back out into the real

world after the various lockdowns, these apps

persisted and they have certainly helped shrink

the world even more, allowing us to grab quick

meetings with anyone we want at the click of a

button.

Doubtless, it has been a real boon for industry

and saved us billions in travel costs, which can

only be a good thing.

However, it seems the tackle industry still

prefers the in-person experience, wherever

possible.

Pretty much every country has sales reps

or agents who drive hundreds of miles each

week to visit retailers, discuss or showcase the

latest products and, crucially, get to know each

business and its owners.

And that personal approach is something

that we also see in trade (and consumer) shows

across the globe.

The US’s ICAST show and the Australian

AFTA trade show are always buzzing with chat

amid a great atmosphere and plenty of back

slaps and handshakes.

The return of EFTTEX a couple of months

back – while not exactly the busiest of shows for

many reasons – did also prove the point that our

industry loves to get together, in person, for a

good old catch up and to set the world to rights.

The gala dinner was well attended and the venue

was awash with chatter and laughter.

This desire to connect in person is really in

evidence at the growing number of industry

summits taking place around this time each year.

As our main news story makes clear, while

the American Sportfishing Association has been

hosting such an event for many, many years

(and is a highlight in the calendar for so many

businesses), other trade organisations have been

following suit.

The American Fly Fishing Trade Association

has morphed its IFTD Show into the

Confluence summit, the European Fishing

Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA) staged its

first such gathering this time last year while the

UK’s Angling Trade Association is just finalising

details for its inaugural event in January.

What’s behind the rise of these angling

summits, then?

Well, it seems our industry just loves to chat

and share experiences. Often this is because of

the shared passion for our sport – we aren’t there

just talking business, we are just as likely to be

comparing recent fishing trips, detailing notable

catches or sharing our favourite destinations.

It’s what makes our industry so great and

why there are so many animated conversations

at these events. Sure, it is important for us to

understand the latest trends, get some insight

into threats and successes and listen to some

great ideas to help us do more business or save

some money.

But I’ll also wager that, at some point, the

person you are having a conversation with

will likely whip out their phone and show you

pictures of a recent, impressive catch.

The age-old saying that “people buy from

people” is certainly true… but it’s also the case

that anglers buy from anglers. Long may that

continue…

WELCOME

Super

Heat Dissipation

Super

Low-Friction

Super

Hardness

Super

Lightness

DECEMBER 2025

Contents

08 NEWS

Pure Fishing opens a Polish distribution centre, US

tariffs force Orvis to close more stores, there are

changes to Rapala VMC’s management team and

3D Tech Innovations issues an update on

its production.

10 NEWS

New Zealand brand Maven launches a range of

bass rods, Danish distributor Catch Fly Fishing

Partners brokers a new deal while Livingston

Lures unveils expanded technology.

12 NEWS

Recently launched UK footwear brand Strike

marked its IGFA partner role at an event in Oman,

while the 2026 US Fly Fishing Show’s Consumer

Choice Awards are now open for submissions.

14 AT THE SUMMIT OF THE TRADE

We report from October’s American Sportfishing

Association Summit, which produced a week of

insightful conversations and presentations in

beautiful Key West, Florida.

16 EU SEPARATES FISHING IN LEAD PLAN

The European Commission has split its planned

lead restrictions into two different proposals,

separating out fishing tackle from ammunition.

What does it mean for our trade?

17 FLY SHOW AIMS FOR CONSUMERS AND TRADE

Fly fishing businesses from Europe, the Far

East, North and South America will join with

consumers from around the globe when the 2026

US Fly Fishing Shows kick off in January.

18 SPORTING DEDICATION TO INNOVATION

UK-based importer Sporting Wholesale, brand

owner of both NGT and Angling Pursuits fishing

tackle, has earned a strong reputation for its

products and the way it does business.

20 RIMINI BECOMES FISHING AND

BOATING CAPITAL

The Rimini Exhibition Centre and Riviera will

once again host Pescare Show, the international

exhibition that brings together the best in sport

fishing and recreational boating next February.

24 YOUR SMART SOURCING HUB IN BEIJING

Serving as a gateway to the world “fishing

tackle factory,” China Fish 2026 will host over

700 professional manufacturers, displaying

comprehensive product lines, launches and

innovations.

26 SPOTLIGHT ON… SMALL BOATS

Whether drifting through Scandinavian fjords,

tackling European predators, navigating Australia’s

estuaries or chasing bass across American lakes,

small fishing boats help anglers get closer to the

action. How can your business benefit?

28 SHOP WINDOW

A quick look at a few of a few of the latest small

boats and kayaks which, although seemingly

bulky, you ought to consider finding space in your

tackle outlet for.

29 SAMPO POWERS PRECISION RESEARCH

Sampo swivels have earned a reputation

among anglers for their durability and reliable

performance but they are also being trusted by

scientists engaged in important marine research.

30 DID DAIWA CREATE THE LIGHTEST

SPINNING REEL?

DAIWA’s just-launched Luvias ST spinning reels

pack unparalleled technology and performance in

a pintsized package… and they might very well be

the lightest spinning reels ever made.

32 DOING BUSINESS WITH… CANADA

The second-largest country in the world, Canada

boasts more coastline than anywhere else, not

to mention countless streams and lakes full of a

wide range of fish species. It represents a huge

opportunity.

36 REPORTS FROM CHINA

Our correspondent profiles tackle manufacturer

Zhongyuan Alljoy, the record-breaking Linxiang

Float Cup Golden Autumn Angling Competition

14

18

20

30 32

and The Shanghai International Lure

Fishing Show.

40 MAKING CONTACT

More key products that have been recently

released onto the market. From storage to lures

and rods, what will you be adding to your retail

environment?

42 FOLLOWING UP YOUR SHOW VISIT

You may have attended ICAST, the Australian

tackle trade show or even EFTTEX. But when you

return from any of these events, what should do

with all the knowledge and information you

have collected?

CONTENTS

22 THE VALUE OF NEW TACKLE

Every season, new tackle enters the market,

promising improved performance, efficiency and

appeal. Every link in the supply chain relies on

innovation to sustain growth, profitability and

engagement.

06 WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM

NEWS

Continued from page 3…

AFFTA’s executive director,

Lucas Bissett, said: “The value

of in-person gatherings like

Confluence are many. Firstly, it

gives the industry a neutral place

to safely talk about industry wide

issues we are all facing. Trade

associations are built to allow

many different competitors to

come in and speak to larger issues

without the fear of violating antitrust

laws.

“Secondly, it gives us the

opportunity as an industry to

point the trade association in

the direction we all see as a clear

path forward towards helping

to deal with timely issues that

have popped up since the last

gathering.

“Lastly, in-person events are the

backbone to maintaining strong

relationships and developing the

networking we all need to run

better businesses.”

Building on its work

The board of EFTTA was keen to

further develop the hard work it

had begun in growing membership

by providing the trade with the

chance to gain important insights

into the workings of the European

Union and its effects on angling,

while showcasing some of the

extraordinary work that goes

behind the scenes to support both

the industry and anglers at large.

Its one-day Angling Summit,

staged a day before the AngelWelt

show in Berlin, ran for the first

time in 2024, with a string of

speakers on topics from EU plans

to gather data on sea fishing to the

physiology of fish to the value of

the sport for mental and physical

wellbeing, alongside a string of

networking opportunities.

EFTTA vice-president Ross

Honey said: “Last year’s summit

was a milestone for the angling

and boating industry, bringing

together stakeholders from across

Europe and beyond to engage

in meaningful dialogue, share

innovations, and jointly address

PURE FISHING OPENS

DISTRIBUTION CENTRE

IN POLAND

In a bid to better serve its retailers, Pure Fishing EMEA has

brought all of its brands together under one roof in a consolidated

distribution centre in Poland.

The company – which boasts 27 tackle brands including Hardy, Greys,

Abu Garcia, PENN, Mitchel and Berkley – said the move will result in

greater efficiency and faster delivery of products to its retailers across

Europe and beyond.

In a statement announcing the opening of the consolidated centre

via social media, it said: “This achievement marks a transformative step

forward in how we serve our customers and deliver the world’s best fishing

brands across the region.

“Now, all our brands are under one roof – allowing us to pick, pack,

dispatch and invoice as one unified shipment. The result? Greater

efficiency, improved speed and a more seamless experience for our

partners and anglers around the world.

“This project represents months of strategic planning and a year

of extraordinary teamwork – executed on time and on budget. It’s a

testament to the innovation, collaboration and dedication of our Poland

warehouse team and everyone across EMEA who helped bring this vision

to life.

“And this is just the beginning. The new facility sets the stage for future

growth, scalability, and excellence – paving the way for the next chapter in

Pure Fishing’s global journey.”

the key challenges facing our

industry. The energy, passion, and

commitment of everyone involved

exceeded all expectations – and

this momentum continues to drive

us forward.

“The EFTTA Angling Summit

is far more than just an event – it’s

a platform for change, a catalyst

for collaboration and a celebration

of everything that makes our

industry strong, resilient and

future-oriented.”

Meanwhile, the first-ever UK

Angling Summit will take place in

January 2026, which will not only

provide industry insights, useful

facts and figures and key speakers

on a range of topics but it will also

allow non-members to gain a

greater appreciation of the work

the ATA has been doing.

Tariffs force Orvis

store closure in US

Tackle and clothing giant Orvis

has announced plans to close

more than 30 stores in the USA

over the coming months as part

of a broader effort to shrink its

retail footprint and streamline

operations in response to rising

tariffs.

A statement from Orvis

president Simon Perkins revealed

that 31 stores and five outlets will

shut as the company enters what

he termed a “new chapter” aimed

at a “more focused retail store

portfolio” while working closer

with retail partners that sell its

products.

Vermont-based Orvis – one of

the USA’s oldest outdoor retailers,

having been established back in

1856 – works with more than 550

domestic independent dealers

and several national outdoor

retailers.

Simon said: “Like many in retail,

Orvis’ business model faced a

sizable shift with the introduction

ATA chair Andrew Race

explained: “In my view, a UK

Angling Summit is vital for a

well-organised and well-funded

angling industry growth plan. The

trade needs to be fully aware of the

facts affecting its industry and the

environment in which it operates.

Only then can it make informed

decisions about a sustainable future.

“Part of the ATA’s role is to

make data available and improve

awareness for its members to invest.

Brands need to know what they are

investing in and where the money

is going. Knowledge of the facts

gives them a better standpoint to

make those decisions. Our annual

UK summit will provide a focus

for discussion and give a voice to

anyone in the trade who wants

to attend.”

of an unprecedented tariff

landscape.”

He explained: “[In order] to

ensure a durable brand and

model for decades to come,

we are focusing on our core

strengths and making the difficult

but necessary decision to rescale

the business by tightening our

assortment and reducing our

corporate store footprint.”

He said this effort to streamline

operations is more than just

focusing on its products. “It’s

about ensuring Orvis continues

to lead in innovation, serve our

angling and upland communities

and protect the wild places we

love.”

The company will also invest

in areas where it sees potential,

such as gear, apparel, outdoor

experiences and conservation

efforts, while phasing out older

products.

www.orvis.com


Rapala VMC enhances

management team

LURE DESIGN

TECHNOLOGY FIRM

REVEALS MOULDS

UPDATE

A 3D tech company which received a utility patent for the way it

manufactured soft plastic lures using metal 3D-printed dies has

now finished its first production mould and begun rolling it out

into a range of projects.

The soon-to-be president of Rapala VMC USA, Travis Tuma, has been

appointed as a member of the corporation’s global management team,

with immediate effect.

Travis joined Rapala VMC USA with strong industry experience

in 2006 as sales manager and became member of the US senior

leadership team in 2022 as vice-president of sales.

He will take on the role of Rapala VMC USA President from January

1st, 2026, as current president Marcus Twidale returns to Europe to take

on a new position as head of Rapala brand and group strategic brand

management.

Travis will continue to lead US sales as part of the Rapala VMC USA

senior leadership team.

Rapala VMC Corporation

president and CEO Cyrille

Viellard said: “I am very

pleased to have Travis in the

global management team.

He brings with him strong

focus on sales and deep

knowledge on our biggest

market area, the USA.

“As a colleague,

he is a highly valued

team member and

complements the current

global management

team perfectly. I want to

congratulate him for his

appointment as a new

member of the team.”

Last year, TTW reported how

Philip Jones and his 3D Tech

Innovations business were looking

for lure manufactures worldwide

interested in gaining a licence for

this technology.

Philip has designed over 200

different products for a string of

lure brands around the globe over

the years and believes the new

process wil change the way such

items are produced in future. that

usage of his offerings will make the

development of new lures more

efficient, less costly and more

customisable.

He explained: “We

accomplished a few things in this

first mould that couldn’t have been

possible using traditional CNC

machining alone, such as creating

a large undercut in the mould and

adding 3D scales.”

Philip had previously explained

that using metal 3D-printed dies

for the creation of the lure cavities

in the moulds, cut the design

and development time down

substantially.

He added: “Whether you’re

developing prototypes for a new

product or making alterations to

an existing one, manufacturing

a mould with 3D-printed mould

dies will save time and money.

“With our proprietary design

process we are able to capture

details, such as 3D scales or other

patterns found in nature, in

soft plastic fishing lures that are

difficult, costly or impossible to

replicate with other manufacturing

techniques.

“All of this is possible

without sacrificing precision or

functionality from the traditional

CNC mould manufacturing

process. Furthermore, it allows

for the reduction of CNC

programming hours and machine

run time.”

Traditional fixed lure moulds

can be difficult to modify or replace

yet this new method allows for

quick swapping of modular dies,

enabling efficient batch production

of different lure styles and sizes.

philip@3dtechinnovations.com

WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM 09

NEWS

LIVINGSTON LURES EXPANDS

PATENTED TECHNOLOGY

US-based fishing lure expert Livingston Lures is again pushing

the boundaries of angling innovation with the expansion and

reinvigoration of its Electronic Baitfish Sound (EBS) Technology.

This cutting-edge technology

integrates advanced electronics

that replicate the actual biological

sounds of baitfish and prey

species, bringing anglers closer

than ever to absolute realism on

the water.

Each Livingston lure is

engineered with precision to

match both the appearance and

the sound signature of its target

species.

For example, shad patterns

reproduce the acoustic profile

of a distressed shad, while frog

models emit authentic bullfrog

calls, enticing predators through

both visual and auditory cues.

The result is a scientifically

tuned presentation that triggers

instinctive strikes when other

baits fail.

Livingston Lures’ vicepresident

Erick Arnoldson

said: “We’re proud to be at the

forefront of fishing technology.

Our newly approved EBS patent

now incorporates proprietary

materials that improve visibility

on forward-facing sonar.”

In addition to advancements

for sport anglers, Livingston

Lures has been granted US and

international patents for its

Commercial Fishing Callers, a

groundbreaking application of

EBS technology.

These electronic sound

devices are currently being used

to harvest Maine lobster, spiny

Linekurv the latest

catch for fly firm

Fast-growing, Danish-based flyfishing

distributor Catch Partners

has acquired line stripping basket

manufacturer Linekurv.dk and

says it will work hard to grow the

brand.

The company, also based in

Denmark, has been making the

baskets for more than 18 years

and supplies many countries

around the world with its product,

which boasts a string of features

including a large size, cones on

the base to minimise problems

with loose line, a curved back for

increased carrying comfort and

a built-in rod holder, allowing the

angler to keep both hands free

while changing flies.

Hanna Vestergaard, CEO of

Catch Partners, explained: “The

line basket from Linekurv.dk is

a well-known product in the

fly-fishing community, with an 18-

year history on the market.

“It made perfect sense for me

to say yes to the opportunity to

acquire the company. I also see

exciting development possibilities

for the future under this brand.

I’m eager to connect with the

existing customer base and reach

potential new customers moving

forward.”

Linekurv.dk founder Lars

Matthiessen added: “In 2007,

after trying several DIY stripping

baskets that worked initially

but eventually failed, I began

manufacturing the Linekurv.dk

basket based on my vision of the

ideal stripping basket.

“My goal was to create

something functional, durable,

and reasonably priced. I must

have succeeded to some extent,

as I’m now distributing to most of

Europe and the United States. The

basic design has stood the test of

time, with only minor changes to

materials and construction over

the past 18 years.”

www.catch-partners.com

lobster, blue crab and snow crab

along the coasts of Florida and

beyond, offering a sustainable

alternative to traditional baiting

practices.

Erick added: “We’re very

proud that our commercial callers

are helping reduce the need for

traditional bait. They represent a

major step toward conservation

and sustainability within the

commercial fishing industry.”

Multiple universities are now

conducting independent studies to

further explore the ecological and

economic potential of Livingston’s

patented technologies, research

that could reshape the future of

both recreational and commercial

fisheries worldwide.

www.livingstonlures.com

MUD HOLE EXPANDS

PRODUCT LINE AS

WEBSITE REVAMPED

As part of a long-term strategic growth plan, and in an effort to

provide rod builders with a one-stop-shop for all their tackle

supplies, Mud Hole Custom Tackle has expanded its product

portfolio and launched an updated website to help customers find

everything they need.

The news follows the success

of Mud Hole’s expanded retail

showroom in Oviedo, Florida,

USA earlier this year, offering

walk-in customers everything to

build customer rods, alongside

reels, line, baits, terminal tackle,

and even fully built fishing rods to

complete their full set-up.

Hunter McKamey, Mud Hole’s

vice president, said: “The success

of our storefront proves there’s a

strong demand for rod building

and fishing gear in one place.

“The retail showroom has

been servicing our rod building

customers for over five years, and

the appetite for traditional fishing

gear since we expanded in 2025

has been tremendous.

“We’re working with some

of the biggest names in fishing,

from AFTCO and Daiwa to

Shimano and Z-Man, to bring

our customers the most popular

gear available. Now, we’re able

to expand this offering to our

customers across the globe

through MudHole.com.”

Mud Hole’s expansion into

traditional fishing gear is a

natural progression of its rod

building business. For almost

50 years,it has understood the

specific purpose and design of

each custom build, providing

customers with guidance on

angling products that match their

custom fishing rod, application or

fishery.

Brook Oliva, Mud Hole’s

president and 22-year veteran

of the company, added: “We’re

confident that bridging the gap

between custom rod building

and fishing products will not

only better serve our traditional

customer community but will also

help grow the craft of rod building

across the globe.”

mudhole.com


ALL ABOUT THE

BASS FOR MAVEN

New Zealand rod maker

Maven, known for its artistry

and precision, has unveiled

its most exciting collection

yet, focused on the global bass

fishing market.

Developed over many months

in close collaboration with

industry experts, the series was

shaped by the insight of anglers

who live and breathe bass fishing.

Every model is said to reflect

the nuance of its technique,

designed to honour the subtleties

of bass fishing itself, from the

delicate tick of a Ned rig to the

thunderclap of a frog strike on

glassy water.

Beyond performance, the

Maven Bass Series is designed

to captivate the eye, as they boas

hand-rolled carbon, clean lines

and meticulous finishes.

The Maven Bass Series – all

hand-rolled in New Zealand –

covers all of the most popular

techniques, with rods for

everything from dropshotting

to jig and worm, Ned rigs,

crankbaits, topwater and frogs and

swimbaits.

True to Maven’s heritage,

performance and design are

inseparable so the series is

available in two finishes – a

timeless olive, designed to mirror

bass in their natural element or

a natural offering boasting clean

lines and raw carbon.

Maven founder Gayleen Pratt

said: “The Bass Series reflects

not only our commitment to

performance but our belief that a

fishing rod can be a thing of beauty

– a piece of craftsmanship that

deepens your connection to the

water. This is our most exciting

and beautiful collection yet.”

mavenfishing.com/collections/bass

DENNETT DEAL

POWERS UP

DRAGON TACKLE

UK fly fishing firm Dragon

Tackle agreed a UK and Ireland

distribution deal for its Dragon

tackle and Grando fly selections

with Dennett Outdoor during the

EFTTEX 2025 show in Brussels

recently.

As a result, dealers who

previously bought these items

from Leeda can now get the

same products from specialist

distributor Dennett Outdoor.

Dragon’s Terry Clease

explained: “We were already

discussing the complexities of

managing fly selections and this

was an opportunity too good to

miss.

“We only had a week or so

to finalise the details before the

Dennett 2026 catalogue goes

to print and the products will

be available as soon as Dennett

Outdoor receives the first delivery.

We hold those selections in stock

at Dragon so availability could be

very soon.

“As a fly specialist, we will focus

on the best possible fly offering

while Dennett Outdoor has a great

sales team covering the UK and

Ireland. It’s a partnership which

allows us both to do what we do

best.”

Dennett director Mark Gamble

said: “This is one of many new

brands that we have secured

for 2026, which has dramatically

increased our product range since

last year.

“We are pleased to have

partnered with Terry at Dragon

Tackle and be in a position

to service many customers

who stock his very popular fly

selections.”

Inaugural ATA Angling

Summit confirmed

The first-ever Angling Summit

organised by the Angling Trades

Association will take place in

January with the aim of bringing

the UK tackle trade together

and providing a wealth of useful

information for manufacturers,

distributors, agents, retailers and

fisheries alike.

The event is scheduled to take

place on Thursday, January 29th at

Barston Lakes near Solihull in the

West Midlands and will feature a

string of high-profile speakers and

industry experts from across the

world, outlining key sectors of the

trade.

Although the full programme is

still being compiled, you can expect

information and trade statistics,

updates on the latest threats and

issues surrounding the tackle

industry plus ideas to boost your

business.

It will take its lead from the

hugely successful European

Fishing Tackle Trade Association

Angling Summit held in Berlin

last November – an event those

attending acclaimed as well worth

their time and effort.

There will also be the chance

for non-ATA members to find out

more about the association, the

work it has been doing behind the

scenes to safeguard our sport not

to mention the benefits of joining

and getting involved.

ATA chair Andrew Race

explained: “In my view, a UK angling

summit is vital for a well-organised

and well-funded angling industry

growth plan. The trade needs to

be fully aware of the facts affecting

its industry and the environment in

which it operates. Only then can it

make informed decisions about a

sustainable future.

“Part of the ATA’s role is to

make data available and improve

awareness for its members to

invest. Brands need to know what

they are investing in and where

the money is going. Knowledge

of the facts gives them a better

standpoint to make those

decisions.

“Our annual UK summit will

provide a focus for discussion and

give a voce to anyone in the trade

who wants to attend.”

More details of speakers and the

full itinerary will be sent to the trade

as soon as they are confirmed.


NEWS

FOOTWEAR BRAND STRIKES

OUT WITH IGFA EVENT

UK-based Strike Footwear marked its role as an official partner of

the International Game Fish Association at the IGFA’s Jebel

Sifah International Fishing Championship held in Oman at the start

of October.

The brand presented the

championship trophy at the

closing ceremony and equipped

six of the competing teams with

Strike performance footwear,

reinforcing its commitment

to supporting international

sporting excellence through its

partnership with IGFA, the global

non-profit dedicated to game fish

conservation and ethical angling.

Among the Strike-equipped

teams, Strike Team 2 from Italy

– composed of Massimo Brogna,

Gianluca Paravizzini and Tony

Iuppa – made an impressive

showing, catching and releasing a

blue marlin to secure second place

overall, with Tony also earning

second place individually.

Launched in July this year,

Strike is a performance footwear

brand created by Stephen Palmer,

CEO of Overland Shoes and

a lifelong angler. The range –

from deck boots to boat shoes,

sneakers, clogs and flip flops – is

specifically designed for anglers,

with innovations like the Aqua

Deck Sole for grip and the Aqua

Sluice Gill System for fast drainage

The five-day Jebel Sifah event,

recognised as one of the region’s

largest international fishing

tournaments, attracted over 100

anglers representing 12 nations,

showcasing their skills in a

celebration of ethical angling and

the beauty of the sea.

The IGFA Championship

promotes responsible fishing

practices, encouraging participants

to handle catches carefully, respect

regulations and preserve marine

resources for future generations.

More than a competition, the event

reflected international unity and

sportsmanship, bringing together

the global angling community in

celebration of the sport and the

ocean environments it depends on.

“Being part of such a significant

international championship was

an incredible moment for Strike,”

said Sandro Onofaro, the brand’s

strategic consultant.

“Supporting the IGFA Oman

Championship reflects our mission

at Strike: to provide anglers with

footwear they can trust and to

stand behind responsible fishing

worldwide”

The IGFA Oman Championship

not only highlighted Oman’s

growing status as a hub for

international sport and tourism but

also offered Strike a unique channel

to engage with the global angling

community.

www.strike-footwear.com

Fly Fishing Show opens

Consumer Choice awards

Entries for the 2026 US Fly Fishing Show’s

Consumer Choice Awards are now open for

submissions, with honours covering every

conceivable tackle and apparel sector.

In all, there are 41 “Best Of” product

categories, with everything from rods, reels,

waders, boots, www.takemefishing.org

packs, polarised eyewear,

accessories and apparel in the judging. Entry in

the awards competition is free and open to all

Fly Fishing Show exhibitors.

The Consumer Choice Awards at the six

Fly Fishing Shows across the USA are jointly

sponsored by Fusion Magazine, and Fly Fishing

Journeys. Winners will be tallied and announced

following the year’s final show in Lancaster,

Pennsylvania, in mid-March.

Show president and CEO Ben Furimsky

explained: “The awards celebrate both new and

proven products to the fly fishing market as

the only awards with no stipulation on the

date of production.

“These are now the most coveted

awards in the industry and the only

awards that are voted on by the public.

They are not leveraged by advertising

dollars or industry power.”

Fly Fishing Shows for 2026 are currently

set for Marlborough, Massachusetts,

January 16th to 18th; Edison, New Jersey,

January 22nd to 25th; Denver, Colorado,

February 6th to 8th; Seattle-Bellevue,

Washington, February 14th and 15th; Pleasanton,

California, February 27th to March 1st; and

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 14th and 15th.

Exhibitors already registered may submit

products at flyfishingshow.com/add-product/

For additional tackle manufacturer, retailer, or

distributor show booth availability and location

information, visit flyfishingshow.com or call

+1 814 443 3638.



FEATURE

ASA COLUMN

AT THE SUMMIT OF

THE SPORTFISHING

INDUSTRY

Back in early October, the American Sportfishing

Association concluded its annual Sportfishing Summit,

following a week of insightful conversations and

presentations in beautiful Key West, Florida.

The event featured an exceptional

number of highlights, including policy

discussions on fisheries management

and tariffs, award presentations and

insightful conversations that will guide the

industry forward for years to come.

Featuring over 165 attendees from 91

different member companies, an impressive

range of industry knowledge was represented

at this year’s summit.

During dozens of committee meetings

and seminars, members discussed an array of

issues, including policy objectives surrounding

tariffs and forage fish n management alongside

goals and priorities for ICAST 2026.

Honouring their work

Additionally, several trailblazers were

recognised for their contributions to the

recreational fishing sector.

During the third annual Women in the

Industry Reception, the Inspire Award

was presented to Bebe Dalton Harrison

of Women in Angling for her vision and

lasting contributions to advancing women in

recreational fishing.

Kathy Fennel of Major League Fishing

received the Lifetime Achievement Award,

praising her extraordinary leadership and

lifelong commitment to the sportfishing

industry.

The organisers also welcomed Dr Ray

Hilborn of the University of Washington to

receive the Gary J. Zurn Conservation award,

granted in recognition of his tireless efforts to

advance science-driven fisheries conservation

and research. Without the unwavering

dedication of these industry leaders, the sector

would not be where it is today.

Speaking up

An impressive slate of speakers was also

featured at this year’s summit, which was

kicked off by keynote speaker Amy Walter of

the Cook Political Report.

Attendees gained an in-depth look at

growing trends in Washington, DC, including

perceptions surrounding key trade and

commerce issues.

The trade conversation was revived in the

second panel featuring Ron Sorini and Megan

Costello of Sorini, Samet and Associates before

transitioning into a discussion on retail and

consumer preferences, led by Don Unser of

Circana.

Finally, the speaker series wrapped up with

a lively discussion on addressing challenges

related to Recruitment, Retention and

Reactivation.

Throughout the week, the ASA’s Board

of Directors was busy collecting committee

testimony, voting on action items, and

discussing association priorities.

The Board also celebrated an important

milestone by naming a new Vice Chair during

its proceedings – Carey Graves, president of

Daiwa USA, will assume this role. ASA would

also like to thank outgoing Vice Chair Patrick

Gill of TackleDirect for his time and dedication

fulfilling this role on the Board of Directors.

In this sector, ASA’s Sportfishing Summit is

unmatched in its ability to connect members

from all sectors of the industry.

ASA President Glenn Hughes reinforced

this sentiment, saying: “The Sportfishing

Summit provides an amazing opportunity

to bring together the leadership from across

the industry to discuss the business of the

association.

“At the same time, it allows for all ASA

members to participate, network and build

relationships in a fun-filled, three-day,

awesome setting, like Key West. There is

nothing like it!”

Next year’s event is scheduled for Point

Clear, Alabama from October 20th to 23rd.

www.asafishing.org


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FEATURE

EFTTA

EU BOSSES

SEPARATE FISHING

IN LEAD BAN PLAN

The European Commission has split its planned lead

restrictions into two different proposals, separating out

fishing tackle from ammunition.

The move could pave the way for a

lead-ban phase-in over five years, a

requested brought by the European

Fishing Tackle Trade Association to

allow for a longer time for the industry and

anglers to swap lead weights for non-toxic

alternatives.

The issue was due to be discussed at

a REACH (Registration, Evaluation,

Authorisation and Restriction of

Chemicals) meeting on October 22nd by

the EU Commission and member state

representatives before the revised fishing text

could be discussed further on December 11th.

The change to the proposal was contained

in an amendment to Annex XVII to

Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 and said that

weights “shall not be placed on the market

or used for fishing, in a concentration of lead

(expressed as metal) equal to or greater than

one per cent by weight.”

After any agreement, retailers of fishing

sinkers and lures of any dimension or weight,

containing those concentrations of lead will

have to display warnings at point of sale in

close proximity to the product or online for

e-commerce businesses.

The EU suggests wording such as:

“WARNING: this product contains lead

which is very toxic to the environment and

may damage fertility or the unborn child.”

It says the warning should advise that the

use of lead has been restricted from a certain

date – three years after the agreement for

sinkers and lures weighing 50g or less, five

years for sinkers and lures weighing 1kg or

less but more than 50g and six months after

for drop-in wires and drop-in sinkers of any

weight.

EU exemptions

However, those paragraphs won’t apply to

lures made of copper alloys containing a

concentration of lead (expressed as metal)

less than three per cent by weight or split

shot weighing 0.06g or less that is placed on

the market in spill-proof and child-resistant

packaging.

The EU has defined a sinker as “a weight

that is attached to a fishing line, a lure or a

fishing net to keep it under the water, or to

keep a fishing line, a lure or a fishing net in a

certain position. A weight that is enclosed,

embedded or threaded in a fishing net, a lure

or a line is not a sinker.”

It defines a lure as “an object that is used to

attract fish or other animals, so that they can

be caught” while split shot “means a small

piece of metal that is pinched around the

fishing line to add weight to it.”

A spokesman for EFTTA said: “As

always, EFTTA continues to monitor these

developments closely. We’ll provide updates

on any agreed extensions, adjustments or

review provisions that emerge from the next

REACH discussions.

“EFTTA has been involved in the

development of these restrictions since 2019,

working closely with ECHA (the European

Chemicals Agency) and EU policymakers

to shape the proposed restrictions. We will

continue to advocate for fair and practical

regulations that support both environmental

protection and the interests of the

recreational angling community.

“We encourage EU Member States to

support the proposed exemptions and the

simplified phase-out period for sinkers.

EFTTA will keep stakeholders informed

about further developments.”

www.eftta.com


FEATURE

FLY FISHING SHOWS

2026 FLY FISHING SHOWS AIM

FOR CONSUMERS AND BUSINESS

Fly fishing businesses from Europe, the Far East, North and South America will

join with consumers from around the globe when the 2026 Fly Fishing Show

kicks off the season in January in the USA.

Ben Furimsky, president and CEO

of the event organiser, said: “What

began a number of years ago as

essentially a consumer-oriented show

of new tackle and some travel destinations

has also evolved into the industry’s largest

business-to-business showcase.”

Some 500 consumers per hour will stream

through the doors of the six 2026 Fly Fishing

Show venues.

Based on the number of advance tickets that

have been sold at the locations ranging from

east to west and back again along with other

indicators, it appears that the forthcoming

show season will once again be the largest

attendance in the Fly Fishing Show’s history.

Industry experts feel that it demonstrates

“a need to get out and get away” from life’s

everyday reality.

Before and after consumers divide their

hours between shopping and a variety

of demonstrations, clinics and classes,

other exhibitors such as lodges or vacation

destination owners will do their own season’s

shopping for everything from flies to tackle to

souvenirs to T-shirts.

Ben added: “Sometimes there is even more

business done in the hotel bar or dining room

than on the show floor. Nothing is more proven

than face-to-face sales.”

Making a choice

The Fly Fishing Show’s Consumers’ Choice

Awards are another major attraction. The

awards celebrate both new and proven products

to the fly fishing market as the only awards with

no stipulation on the date of production. These

are said to be among the most coveted awards

in the industry and the only awards that are

voted on by the public.

While some venues are already sold out or

approaching capacity, Ben suggested interested

exhibitors put their name on a waiting list.

He said: “People sometimes have last minute

emergencies and need to cancel their exhibit

space so we suddenly have an opening, and

being proactive is the best tactic here.”

The 2026 Fly Fishing

Shows are taking

places as follows:

Marlborough, Massachusetts.

January 16th to 18th.

Denver, Colorado

February 6th to 8th.

Seattle-Bellevue, Washington

February 14th to 15th.

Pleasanton, California

February 27th to March 1st.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

March 14th to 15th.

For tackle manufacturer, retailer or distributor show

booth availability and location information or to

be added to a venue’s waiting list, visit

flyfishingshow.com or phone +1 814 443 3638.


SPOTLIGHT

A SPORTING DEDICATION TO

EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION

Sporting Wholesale, brand owner of both NGT and Angling Pursuits fishing tackle, is a

prominent UK-based importer and wholesaler, which has earned a strong reputation for

its products and the way it does business.

With a focus on providing highquality

products, competitive

pricing and exceptional

customer service, Sporting

Wholesale has built a reputation as a trusted

partner with over 2,000 trade accounts

worldwide.

As the owner of NGT Fishing Tackle, one

of the leading names in the fishing equipment

sector, the company has not only established

itself as a major player in wholesale but has

also played an instrumental role in shaping

the contemporary fishing landscape.

Affordable quality

Founded in the early 2000s, Sporting

Wholesale has consistently demonstrated its

commitment to excellence and innovation.

The company specialises in offering everyday

tackle items at affordable prices. But

affordable doesn’t mean cheap.

Managing director Eddy Eliaz told TTW:

“We don’t want to offer cheap items at cheap

prices. Our aim for more than 20 years has

been to offer a high-quality product at an

affordable price.

“To achieve this, we spend a lot of time

sourcing our products and then order the

most popular items in large quantities. This

means we can’t offer every colour, size or

variation of a product, but we can offer what

most anglers are looking for and at the right

price.”

Sporting Wholesale prides itself on

sourcing products from globally recognised

manufacturers, ensuring that retailers receive

top-notch items that meet the ever-evolving

needs of consumers.

This commitment to quality and service

has enabled the company to build strong

relationships with partners across the UK,

Europe and beyond.

As part of SWL’s growth plan, it moved

into its new headquarters in late 2019. Based

close to Luton Airport, the new office,

showroom and warehouse can hold over

70,000 sq ft of stock.

Eddy added: “When we first moved

in, we thought our space problems were

behind us. But, after less than two years, the

warehouse was full and we needed to buy 45

HC containers to hold the stock we needed.

As this is the company’s fourth move, we

hopefully won’t have to move again, but who

knows what the future will hold.”

NGT’s growth under Sporting

Wholesale

Since becoming part of Sporting Wholesale

12 years ago, NGT has undergone substantial


SPORTING WHOLESALE

growth, both in terms of product offerings and

brand recognition.

The range now covers over 500 SKUs and

more items are being added. For example, just

a few months ago SWL launched the NGT

Bivvy Sink, a patent pending product that has

taken the market by storm (the image on this

month’s front cover.)

Eddy explained: “This is a product that took

over a year to develop – from the initial idea

to the testing phase of prototypes to the final

product arriving at our warehouse.

“We invested quite heavily in this product,

including opening the moulds for the

production and getting a patent pending

application in place.

Alongside NGT, SWL also owns Angling

Pursuits. This brand is aimed at the entrylevel

angler.

Eddy revealed: “Everyone must start

somewhere and AP offers the right product

for those new to the sport. It’s an affordable

brand but with products that are more than

capable of doing what they are intended for –

catching fish.”

SWL’s aim is to continue to innovate and

anticipate emerging trends to stay one step

ahead of the competition.

Committed to the future

Looking forward, Sporting Wholesale remains

deeply committed to ensuring the continued

growth and success of its NGT and Angling

Pursuits brands.

A new (trade-only) paper catalogue is due

out before the end of the year which will

supplement www.sportingwholesale.com,

which is the businesses B2B website.

TTW understands that this site is the

heartbeat of the business. It’s updated daily

and allows trade customers to order online 24

hours a day, 365 days a year.

The site has full details of all products and

has a live stock feed, so customers know

exactly what’s in stock. If something is out

of stock, a due date is shown. Trade prices

and discounts are all shown online, allowing

customers to place orders whenever they

choose.

The company has plans to further

expand its product lines and explore

new markets, both domestically and

internationally, but remains dedicated to

its core values of delivering high-quality

products, excellent customer service and

staying ahead of the curve in terms of

innovation and design.

Eddy concluded: “We have an excellent

customer base, but we are always looking

for more distributors. Anyone interested in

working with us can email me.”

eddy@sportingwholesale.com

www.sportingwholesale.com


FEATURE

RIMINI BECOMES THE

CAPITAL OF SPORTFISHING

AND RECREATIONAL BOATING

The Rimini Exhibition Centre and Riviera will once again host Pescare Show, the

international exhibition organised by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), that brings together

the best in sport fishing and recreational boating, from February 13th to 15th, 2026.

After its successful debut in Rimini

in 2025, the event is preparing for

a new, even richer edition, capable

of attracting enthusiasts and trade

visitors from Europe and thus confirming

Rimini as the capital of a rapidly growing sector

with an increasingly international outlook.

A winning format

As a location, Rimini has proved to be strategic,

thanks to its central geographical position,

its strong connection to the sea and ability to

offer an experience that goes far beyond the

exhibition halls.

In 2025, the show registered over 100

brands, a 50 per cent increase in visitors and a

90 per cent increase in international visitors.

These figures confirmed that the city and

its Riviera are the ideal location for hosting

an event that combines sport, tourism and

lifestyle.

This is also thanks to the versatility of the

Rimini exhibition centre, with indoor and

outdoor spaces and a pool area, which provided

exhibitors with solutions to suit every need.

The Riviera, with its sea tradition and ability

to host side events, completed a 360-degree

experience that projected the event well

beyond the three days of the calendar.

Strategic partnerships,

international look

The international identity of the trade show

is also strengthened by its partnership with

EFTTEX, Europe’s most important trade fair

in the sector, which was held in Brussels in

September.

This collaboration opens new opportunities

for networking and exchange between

operators, strengthening the role of Pescare

Show as a European hub for sportfishing.

Collaborations with the Emilia-Romagna

Region, FIPSAS, ASSONAT (National

Association of Marinas and Tourist Ports),

Aquabike San Marino, the International

Game Fish Association, the European Fly

Fishing Association and a wide network of

national and international media partners,

including the Rimini Yacht Club, have also been

confirmed, demonstrating the region’s vocation

as a reference point for the sport fishing

community.

A year of events

Pescare Show goes far beyond the three days of

the trade fair. With the Road to Pescare Show

2026 programme, a full calendar of sporting

and industry events will enliven the area

around Rimini throughout the year, from the


PESCARE SHOW

Upper Adriatic to the Tyrrhenian Sea. Among

the most important events are Branzino the

Challenge kayak fishing competition, the

Adriatic Saltwater Tournament, the Trofeo

Città di Rimini drifting competition, the

Women’s and Under-22 World Carp Fishing

Championships and historic competitions

such as the Italian Master coarse fishing

competition.

It’s a “road to” that involves competitors,

families and enthusiasts, shining the spotlight

on different disciplines and strengthening the

bond with the excellence of our sea.

A growing community

Pescare Show is part of a vital and constantly

expanding sector. According to the latest

data collected by the research centre of FIPO

(Italian Federation of Sport Fishing Equipment

Manufacturers and Operators), there are

over two million sport fishermen in Italy,

including approximately 100,000 competitive

fishermen.

The market generates €200 million in trade

and around €300 million in consumption, with

a tax impact of over €350 million and a total

turnover of almost €2.1 billion, thanks to its

links with boating, tourism and catering. The

sector employs 15,000 people and has over

1,400 retail outlets.

Several techniques are practised and

showcased, reflecting the variety of

environments and traditions: spinning (in

the sea and freshwater), trolling (in the sea

and lakes), surfcasting (in coastal areas), carp

fishing, fly fishing (in fresh water), as well as

bottom fishing (from a stationary boat at sea),

jigging, casting and coarse fishing. Pescare

Show promotes this wealth of techniques.

An immersive and digital

experience

Alongside the exhibition areas and

competitions, Pescare Show 2026 will offer

experiential spaces designed for audiences

of all ages: workshops, demonstrations,

meetings with fishing champions and

ambassadors.

The event’s new website, with updated

content and interactivity, completes the

offering with a blog dedicated to itineraries

and travel, strengthening the bond with an

increasingly connected community eager to

share experiences.

Rimini – the future of sport fishing

Combining innovation and tradition, Pescare

Show 2026 confirms itself as an unmissable

event for those who experience fishing

not only as a sport, but as an experience

that combines environment, nature and

networking.

For Rimini and its Riviera, it will be an

extraordinary opportunity to reaffirm its

role as the capital of the sea and recreational

boating, welcoming the large audience of

enthusiasts and operators who choose the

city as an international hub.

www.pescareshow.it


FEATURE

WHY NEW FISHING

TACKLE MATTERS

Every season, new tackle enters the market, promising improved performance, efficiency

and appeal. From manufacturers and distributors to retailers and end users, every link in

the supply chain relies on innovation to sustain growth, profitability and engagement.

In an industry built on tradition, few

forces are as vital – or as invigorating – as

innovation. The significance of new rods,

reels, lures and accessories reaches far

beyond the angler tying on a lure.

New fishing tackle isn’t just gear - it’s the

lifeblood of the global angling economy.

Manufacturers: Competing

through innovation

For tackle manufacturers, innovation

isn’t optional, it’s vital. With the global

sportfishing equipment market valued at tens

of billions of dollars each year – and growing

– differentiation has become the defining

factor between success and stagnation.

Modern anglers expect continual

improvement in design, materials and

functionality. This drives companies to

invest heavily in R&D, materials science

and performance testing. From carbon

fibre rod blanks that improve strength-toweight

ratios to AI-assisted lure design and

precision-engineered reels, innovation helps

manufacturers stay ahead in a crowded field.

Beyond performance, innovation offers

an opportunity to refresh brand identity

and sustain visibility. The annual ICAST

event and the recent EFTTEX trade shows

demonstrate this perfectly. The New Product

Showcases generate enormous anticipation,

with media coverage and awards creating

instant market momentum. A strong product

debut can reposition a brand overnight.

Innovation also drives internal efficiency.

Improved manufacturing processes,

sustainable materials and automation reduce

production costs and waste while enhancing

product consistency. With increasing

scrutiny on sustainability and environmental

responsibility, these advances carry

reputational and regulatory benefits as well.

For manufacturers, new tackle represents

a virtuous cycle – one where creativity fuels

competitiveness, competitiveness drives

growth and growth sustains the industry’s

forward motion.

Distributors: Keeping the

supply chain moving

Distributors sit at the intersection between

manufacturing and retail, and their success

depends on maintaining a dynamic, relevant

and profitable product portfolio. Fresh

tackle lines play a crucial role in keeping that

pipeline active.

Each product launch reinvigorates the

sales cycle. Seasonal releases or mid-year

product updates give distributors renewed

opportunities to engage retailers, push

inventory and align promotions. In a business

where margins can be tight, a new reel or lure

series can provide the surge needed to hit

quarterly targets.

New products also enable distributors to

diversify their offering and expand into new


market segments. For instance, the rapid

growth of kayak fishing, shore casting and

women’s and youth angling gear has opened

lucrative new lanes. Distributors who adapt

quickly with innovative tackle options can

capture emerging demand and solidify

relationships with key retail accounts.

Moreover, distributors benefit from the

marketing lift generated by manufacturers.

When a brand invests in a high-profile

product campaign, distributors ride that

wave – leveraging ready-made consumer

interest and awareness to increase sellthrough

rates.

In short, innovation keeps the distribution

channel energised. Without a steady flow

of new products, the market becomes

static – and in today’s fast-moving retail

environment, stagnation is the enemy of

profitability.

Retailers: Driving engagement

and sales

For retailers – both independent shops and

major chains – new gear is a proven catalyst

for sales and customer engagement.

Anglers are naturally gear-oriented

consumers. They love to browse, compare

and test new products, and retailers use this

behaviour to drive traffic and strengthen

customer loyalty. A well-promoted product

launch can generate both in-store visits

and online clicks, especially when paired

with demos, influencer endorsements, or

promotional bundles.

“New” also sells well. Retailers rely on

fresh product assortments to differentiate

themselves from competitors and maintain

relevance with returning customers.

Limited-edition colourways, innovative lure

technologies or upgraded reel models create

excitement and urgency – particularly when

availability is exclusive or time-limited.

New tackle lines also fuel cross-selling

opportunities. An angler picking up the latest

rod is often in the market for matching reels,

line and tackle storage. Smart merchandising

strategies – like bundling or themed product

displays – allow retailers to turn one sale into

several.

Additionally, innovation helps retailers

stay in tune with emerging consumer trends.

Sustainability, digital integration (like appconnected

sonar devices) and ergonomic

design are all influencing buying behaviour.

By updating inventory to reflect these shifts,

retailers can attract new demographics,

including younger and more tech-oriented

anglers.

Ultimately, for the retail segment, new

tackle isn’t just inventory – it’s storytelling.

Each launch provides a narrative to engage

customers, promote brands, and reinforce

the excitement that keeps the fishing

economy vibrant.

Anglers: The end user’s advantage

While the business impact of new tackle is

undeniable, its importance ultimately comes

down to one group: anglers.

For the end user, innovation translates

directly into enhanced performance and

experience. Lightweight materials reduce

fatigue during long casting sessions.

Precision gear ratios improve retrieval speed

and torque. Advanced lure designs mimic

baitfish more accurately than ever. These

incremental improvements, taken together,

make the sport more efficient, rewarding and

accessible.

Beyond the technical, there’s an emotional

component. Anglers derive joy from

experimenting with new tools, techniques

and technologies. Each new rod or lure

represents a fresh opportunity to learn, adapt

and improve. For many, exploring new gear

is an integral part of their connection to the

sport.

Crucially, innovation is also making

fishing more inclusive and sustainable.

Ergonomic tackle designs and lighter se tups

have opened the door to youth, senior and

adaptive anglers.

Meanwhile, biodegradable baits, lead-free

sinkers, and recyclable packaging reflect the

industry’s growing environmental conscience

– a shift that resonates strongly with modern

consumers.

By delivering better, safer and more

responsible products, the industry not only

satisfies existing anglers but also ensures

the sport’s continued growth and relevance

for future generations.

A unified industry benefit

The importance of new fishing tackle

extends across the entire angling value

chain. Each innovation fuels a cycle of

economic and creative growth:

• Manufacturers gain visibility and

competitive advantage.

• Distributors sustain momentum and

diversify their markets.

• Retailers attract customers and boost

sales.

• Anglers enjoy improved performance

and engagement.

This continuous cycle of development,

marketing and adoption keeps the industry

vibrant. The launch of a single high-impact

product can ripple outward – driving

advertising campaigns, social media

engagement and sales across multiple

categories.

Moreover, as the fishing industry

embraces sustainability and digital

transformation, innovation takes on new

meaning. It’s not just about better catches

but about building a future-proof business

model – one that aligns performance, profit

and responsibility.

Conclusion

In the fishing world, innovation is far

more than a buzzword, it’s the foundation

of progress. From the boardrooms of

major manufacturers to the tackle boxes

of weekend anglers, new tackle sustains

enthusiasm, drives commerce, and defines

the sport’s evolution.

For trade professionals, the message is

clear: staying attuned to the next wave of

innovation isn’t just smart business, it’s

essential for long-term success.

Whether it’s a breakthrough in rod

materials, a revolutionary lure design, or a

sustainable manufacturing process, every

new piece of tackle contributes to a larger

story of creativity, resilience and growth.

New gear keeps the reels turning…

and the entire angling industry moving

forward.

NEW GEAR


FEATURE

CHINA FISH 2026

YOUR SMART SOURCING HUB IN BEIJING

Serving as the primary gateway to the world “fishing tackle factory,” China Fish 2026

will host over 700 professional manufacturers, displaying comprehensive product lines,

new launches, and technological innovations.

The 32nd China Fish is scheduled for

February 28th to March 2nd, 2026,

at the China International Exhibition

Center (Shunyi Hall) in Beijing.

For international buyers, China Fish

represents a critical opportunity to meet

with factory decision-makers for direct

negotiations and collaboration, to identify

emerging industry trends through first-hand

examination of new products and technologies,

to explore business opportunities with a

diverse community of buyers from more than

80 countries and regions.

In order to enhance the experience of buyers

visiting the show, to make it an effective fishing

tackle show, China Fish has developed new

services to help you to have a successful show

and energise your business

To energise your business and enhance your

visit, China Fish introduced two new services

designed to streamline your sourcing.

Exhibitor Preview: Plan your sourcing

strategy in advance

Maximise your efficiency with the Exhibitor

Preview tool on the official China Fish website.

This platform allows you to conduct primary

research and build your sourcing strategy

before you arrive.

Get a head start by exploring 700+

exhibitors online:

• Identify key prospects: Locate booth

numbers, distinguish new companies (0-2

years) from established ones (10+ years) and

determine which exhibitors are launching new

products or participating in the Best Product

Showcase.

• Pinpoint ideal partners: Use smart

filters – by product category, company type or

exhibitor history – or search by name/booth

number to create a tailored itinerary.

• Access detailed e-stores: View company

profiles, product images and videos, workshop

introductions and direct contact information.

You can also chat, inquire, place orders

and schedule in-person appointments with

exhibitors in advance – allowing you to execute

a pre-arranged plan and meet your suppliers

face-to-face at the show.


China Fish

Comprehensive

Support Services

Official China Fish hotels: group rates

& dining credit

Reserve your room with our exclusive

group discount and get a complimentary

food and beverage credit to use on-site.

CHINA FISH

With your target list ready, you can arrive

at the show ready to schedule meetings, ask

detailed questions and negotiate directly with

your shortlisted suppliers.

Free one-year all-in one platform

membership

While the exhibition lasts three days, your

access to the suppliers continues. All registered

buyers receive a complimentary one-year

membership to the China Fish All-in-One

Platform.

This digital platform features 900+ verified

exhibitors and 8,000+ products, allowing you

to connect, inquire and place orders year-round.

Secure free access to

China Fish 2026

Register by January 30th, 2026, to claim your

complimentary entry pass – a US$55 value.

This offer is exclusively for international traders.

Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to join

the industry’s premier event.

How to register:

Returning Visitors: Simply submit your attendee names

to Lijiang@chinafish.cn or via WeChat at ChinaFishShow.

First-Time Visitors: Register directly on our official

website: www.chinafishshow.org.

Contact China Fish

Lijiang@chinafish.cn

+86 10 5820 3101 / 02 / 03

www.chinafishshow.org

WeChat Official Account:: ChinaFishShow.

Early badge pickup

China Fish 2026 pre-registered

international buyers can pick up their

badges one day prior to the show

opening day in the lobbies of the official

China Fish hotels, avoiding queues at the

venue.

Visa application support: official

invitation letter

For guests requiring a visa to enter China,

China Fish will provide an invitation letter

upon request, free of charge, to assist the

visa application process.

Free shuttles and airport transfers

Visitors staying at official China Fish

hotels enjoy complimentary shuttle

buses connecting the hotels to the venue.

Additionally, several participating hotels

offer airport transfer services to and from

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

Private interpreter booking

To ensure clear communication, you

can book a dedicated interpreter in your

preferred language. We offer services in

multiple languages.

Visitor lounge

Take a moment to recharge in the

International Visitor Lounge, located

within the Best Product Showcase

area. This exclusive space offers

complimentary light snacks and

beverages, providing the perfect

environment to network with global

industry peers and spark new ideas

through conversation.

Best Product Showcase

awards banquet

Date & Time: 6pm to 9pm,

March 1st, 2026

Venue: Ballroom, Crowne Plaza Hotel

Admission: By ticket

Celebrate innovation and network with

the best at the industry’s most anticipated

evening. The Best Product Showcase

Awards Banquet is the premier

networking event of China Fish 2026,

gathering award-winning innovators,

industry leaders and key media.

Registered international buyers are

welcome to join this exclusive gala to

connect in a relaxed setting and witness

the official announcement of the year’s

top products across all categories.

Complimentary Starbucks light lunch

Exploring 40,000 sq m of exhibition

space is demanding. To help you stay

refreshed and save time, every registered

international buyer will receive a

complimentary Starbucks Light Lunch at

the venue.


SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT ON

SMALL BOATS

Whether drifting through Scandinavian fjords, tackling

European predators, navigating Australia’s estuaries or

chasing bass across American lakes, small fishing boats

help anglers get closer to the action. But what should

you be selling... and why?

Small boats – from simple aluminium

skiffs to high-tech pedal kayaks

and compact centre-consoles – are

the lifeblood of recreational fishing

worldwide. These nimble craft provide

affordable, accessible access to water for

millions of anglers across continents.

The international market for these small

boats is vast and still expanding. Depending on

how analysts define the segment, global market

value estimates range between US$ 30–40

billion (2023–2024), with consistent growth

projected throughout the next decade.

The expansion is being driven by rising

disposable income in developing economies,

advances in small-engine technology,

electrification and the growth of fishing as both

recreation and lifestyle tourism.

Why small boats matter

Small recreational fishing boats offer a unique

mix of affordability, flexibility and adventure.

They are easier to store, transport and maintain

than larger craft, yet capable of delivering high

performance and advanced features.

Their appeal transcends geography:

• In North America, freshwater and coastal

fishing remain dominant, supported by a

mature dealer network and long fishing

heritage.

• In Europe, there’s strong demand for

lightweight, trailerable boats for inland and

coastal use, especially in the Nordics, the UK

and the Mediterranean.

• In Asia-Pacific, the market is expanding

rapidly – countries like Australia, Japan, South

Korea and, increasingly, China are seeing

strong recreational uptake as fishing shifts from

subsistence to leisure.

• In Latin America and Africa, growth is

emerging through tourism, sport-fishing

lodges, and affordable aluminium and inflatable

options.

Global participation in sport fishing is

estimated in the hundreds of millions and

these small boats form the backbone of that

ecosystem.

KEY BOAT TYPES

Aluminium and utility boats

Light, durable, and affordable, aluminium

“jon” and utility boats dominate freshwater and

inland fishing markets worldwide, thanks to

their low maintenance, ease of transportation

and long lifespan.

Canadian and Scandinavian manufacturers

such as Lund, Crestliner, Buster and Linder

have strong reputations for reliability and

rugged design. In the United States, Tracker

and Alumacraft remain key brands. In

Asia, lightweight aluminium skiffs built by

companies like Quintrex (Australia) and Sea Jay

cater to saltwater and tropical conditions.

Bass and tournament boats

Once a distinctly North American segment,

these are now gaining traction globally, as

predator anglers across Europe appreciate their

ease of use and customisable optuons, not to

mention the expansive deck fishing space.

These high-performance fibreglass boats

are optimised for speed, space, storage and,

crucially, integrated electronics.

Brands like Ranger, Nitro, Skeeter and

Triton dominate the US and Canadian markets.

European equivalents, such as Linder Arkip or

Smartliner Bass, are growing in appeal among

competitive anglers.

China and Japan are also seeing rising

demand for compact, high-performance fishing

craft suited to reservoirs and inland lakes.

Centre-console and bay boats

These versatile craft serve both coastal and

offshore anglers. Their popularity extends

from Florida and the Caribbean to the

Mediterranean, the Indian Ocean and southeast

Asia.

In addition to being eminently seaworthy,

these boat types are characterised by being

family-friendly and adaptable to multiple

fishing styles.

Classic global names include Boston Whaler

(USA), Jeanneau Cap Camarat (France),

Beneteau Flyer (France), Sea Fox (USA) and

Sailfish (USA). In Australia, Haines Hunter

and Bar Crusher dominate this segment,

while Quicksilver (UK/Europe) and Ranieri


SMALL BOATS

International (Italy) provide stylish European

alternatives.

Rigid-Inflatable Boats (RIBs) and

inflatables

RIBs have surged in popularity across Europe

and Asia, thanks to their light weight, stability,

portability and versatility. Once seen mainly

as tenders, they are now full-fledged fishing

and family boats. Global brands like Zodiac

(France), BRIG (Ukraine), Highfield (Australia/

China), Sea Eagle (USA), Boatworld (UK)

and Williams Jet Tenders (UK) dominate

this market. Compact foldable inflatables

from Takacat, Suzumar and Sevylor extend

accessibility to new anglers and urban dwellers.

Kayaks and human-powered craft

Fishing kayaks have become a global

phenomenon, particularly in the US, Europe

and Oceania, thanks to their low cost, minimal

maintenance and unmatched water access.

Brands like Hobie, Old Town, Sea Eagle,

Perception, Feelfree and Viking Kayaks offer

pedal, paddle and electric-assist options.

Kayak fishing tournaments are now held in

Japan, Australia, South Africa and Scandinavia,

underscoring the segment’s universal appeal.

Market value and growth trends

Analysts note that the global small-boat

segment is benefiting from several overlapping

trends…

• Electrification: Compact electric

outboards from Torqeedo, Mercury Avator

and ePropulsion are transforming small-boat

propulsion, especially in Europe and Asia where

emission regulations are tightening.

• Boat-sharing and rentals: Growth in

peer-to-peer platforms and eco-tourism is

increasing access for younger and first-time

users.

• Advanced electronics: Even sub-20ft

boats now feature sonar, radar, fish finders and

integrated displays from Garmin, Raymarine,

Lowrance and Simrad, among others.

• Post-pandemic recreation boom:

Global boating participation surged from 2020

onward, and small boats benefited most due to

affordability and availability.

Regional market value estimates (2024):

• North America: US$12–15 billion

• Europe: US$8–10 billion

• Asia-Pacific: US$6–8 billion (fastestgrowing

region)

• Rest of world: US$3–5 billion

Shaping the future

The small boat sector is one where innovation

and development are certainly key factors,

whether in boat design or, more importantly,

electronics.

Sustainability and electric mobility are key

words in this market, with electric outboards

and solar-charging systems fast becoming

mainstream.

Europe leads in regulation but Asia is

catching up with innovative lightweight electric

hulls.

Meanwhile, smart boat dashboards, GPS

mapping and safety tracking are filtering down

from luxury yachts to 14ft runabouts.

Looking ahead, it is clear there is significant

growth potential in regions such as Southeast

Asia, India and even Africa, opening up more

opportunities for entry-level and inflatable craft.

Younger consumers across the globe are

treating small boats as lifestyle accessories, often

combining fishing, paddle sports and ecotourism.

At the same time, global supply chains are

standardising modular hulls, making boats easier

to ship and assemble locally.

Understanding the market

Clearly, space can be a consideration when

choosing which small boats to stock or display in

a retail environment while suppliers should think

carefully about regional trends and regulations

when making decisions.

If you’re located near the coast then your boat

sales may well be influenced by this. Do you want

to stock boats capable of handling both fresh and

saltwater situations. What about tidal range or

storage access?

Aluminium and RIBs tend have global parts

support; fibreglass boats may need regionspecific

repair expertise. Have you got spares and

repairs covered?

Many places will have different rules and

regulations to consider, from engine emission

limits (EU, Japan), safety certifications (CE,

ABYC) and registration laws, among others.

Conclusion

From the calm lakes of Finland to the mangrove

flats of Queensland, small recreational fishing

boats connect people to the water in every corner

of the world.

They embody freedom, affordability, and

sustainability – values that transcend borders.

Whether it’s a pedal kayak in Tokyo Bay, an

aluminium skiff in Canada or a RIB skimming

across the Mediterranean, these compact craft

are shaping a global culture of accessible angling.

As technology, electrification and ecoconsciousness

continue to evolve, small boats

will remain at the forefront of recreational fishing

– not only as tools for sport but as symbols of a

sustainable, shared outdoor future.


SHOP WINDOW

1

SMALL BOATS

2

3

4

1 HOBIE

MIRAGE OUTBACK

A fully-loaded fishing machine built

for every conceivable situation,

whether you’re prowling the ocean

for monster gamefish or stalking

bass in your favourite freshwater

fishing hole.

Its Kick-Up Fins automatically

retract upon impact, the extra-wide

standing deck offers an improved

casting platform and convenient

vantage point for sight fishing,

allowing for superior vision from

above while the revolutionary

Guardian Transducer Shield gives

you multidimensional vision below.

There’s also the Hobie H-Rail with

integrated patented RAM Hand-

Track and numerous high-capacity

storage compartments for ultimate

customisation and organisation.

www.hobie.com

2 SEA EAGLE

FISHSUP 1210

At 12ft 10in long x 39in wide x 6in

thick, the super-stable FS1210 can

easily be used as an iSUP with just

you, a paddle and your rod or be

rigged with a swivel seat, electric or

3hp motor, casting bar, rod holders,

carting wheels and still have space

to spare for all your fishing gear.

It’s an upgrade to Sea Eagle’s

popular but smaller FishSUP 126

and boasts two independent air

chambers that inflate to a rock solid

15 psi, ensuring anglers have a safe

fishing platform.

The swallow tail pontoons extend

24ins behind the removable motor

mount adding to the stability and

buoyancy of this iSUP.

seaeagle.com

3BOATWORLD

KAYAK 365

Engineered for ultimate angling

versatility, this revised kayak offers

ample space for two adults or

a solo angler with a full load of

gear. Its high-pressure drop-stitch

Airdeck creates a remarkably stable

platform, whilst the inflatable V-keel

delivers superb tracking. Perfect

for making a stealthy approach

with the included paddle or trolling

efficiently with an outboard. The key

upgrade includes two factory-fitted

Borika universal mounts, ready

for electronics and rod holders

while the carry handles have been

repositioned for easier transport.

Lightweight, durable and CAT C

classified, this two-person boat

inflates in minutes, making it the

ideal grab-and-go vessel for any

water-based excursion.

boatworld.co.uk

4 RANGER BOATS

ALPHA 208

Boasting more than five decades of

tradition and innovation, the Alpha

208 delivers peak fibreglass-like

performance with the durability and

versatility of aluminium.

The pad-bottom hull is

sculpted for increased all-around

performance, while smooth lines

make you forget you’re not in a

top-of-the-line fibreglass rig. The

setback transom increases hole

shot and handling ability, while

smoothing the flow of water to the

prop, giving you more grip in all

conditions. It’s also full of Ranger’s

signature foam flotation that

unitises the hull for its One-Piece-

Feel construction. The Ranger Cup

Equipped packages add a pair of

9in fishfinders and an upgraded

trolling motor.

www.rangerboats.com


FEATURE

SAMPO SWIVELS

SAMPO SWIVELS:

POWERING PRECISION

IN GLOBAL FISHERIES

RESEARCH

Sampo swivels have earned a reputation among anglers

for their durability and reliable performance but they are

also being trusted by scientists engaged in important

marine research, as Jack Butts, president of manufacturer

Rome Specialty Company, explains…

At Rome Specialty Company,

we’ve proudly manufactured

Sampo swivels in the USA for

decades. Known for their strength,

durability and smooth performance, Sampo

swivels were the original ball bearing swivel,

featuring a trademarked design (#2519953)

that revolutionised the fishing tackle industry.

Every other ball bearing swivel on the market

today is, in essence, a copy of our cutting-edge

technology.

Crafted from nickel-plated brass with

stainless steel ball bearings, Sampo swivels

deliver exceptionally smooth rotation thanks to

this unique material combination – providing

friction-free movement and unmatched

reliability.

That precision engineering has long made

them a trusted choice among anglers and

tackle makers worldwide. Recently, we were

honoured to learn their reputation extends far

beyond sportfishing – deep into the realm of

marine science.

Trusted for tagging

Dr Michael Musyl, a leading marine researcher

with TissueGrab Biopsy Systems LLC, shared

that Sampo swivels – particularly our model

3401-5A – have dramatically improved the

retention time of pop-up satellite archival tags

deployed on marine animals such as sharks,

tunas, billfishes and even marine mammals.

These tags, which often cost several

thousand dollars each, are vital for

understanding the movements, behaviours and

survival of pelagic species worldwide.

According to Dr Musyl, the key lies in how

our swivels reduce torque and precession on

monofilament tethers. By minimising twisting

forces, Sampo swivels prevent the tissue

damage and microbial intrusion that can lead

to infection and premature tag loss.

This isn’t just anecdotal – Musyl’s

published work (Musyl et al. 2011, Marine

Ecology Progress Series), along with multiple

subsequent studies, consistently confirms

the positive impact of Sampo swivels on tag

performance and longevity.

We were especially proud to hear that Dr

Musyl not only relies on Sampo swivels for

his own tagging programs but also routinely

purchases them for collaborating researchers

worldwide.

He even asked permission to feature

Sampo on the “tagging supplies” section of his

company’s website as a recommended best

practice for reliable fisheries research.

Pride in preservation

As a family-run American manufacturer,

nothing makes us prouder than knowing our

products contribute to discoveries that help

protect and preserve marine life. Whether

you’re chasing record-breaking billfish or

tracking their migrations across oceans, you

can count on Sampo swivels to perform when

it matters most.

www.roscoinc.com


FEATURE

DAIWA

HAS DAIWA CREATED

THE WORLD’S LIGHTEST

SPINNING REEL?

DAIWA’s just-launched LUVIAS ST spinning reels pack unparalleled technology

and performance in a pintsized package… and they might very well be the lightest

spinning reel ever made.

size LUVIAS models on a 750-size frame and

the LUVIAS 2500 LT on a 1000 size body.”

Sizing down the chassis saved quantifiable

weight, while the spools are still 1000 and

2000 sizes, spool capacities are another factor

to note. These reels, being designed for light

lines, are super shallow. Anglers need not

waste unnecessary line to fill these reels for

maximum casting efficiency.

With these shallow spools, anglers can

spool up with an appropriate amount of line

and save the rest for another DAIWA reel.

But they don’t sacrifice power for size, either.

DAIWA’s SF and LT frames are engineered to

accommodate larger gearing than comparably

sized reels.

daiwa.us

What does 5oz feel like? Find

a deck of playing cards in a

drawer… they’re about 5oz.

Or maybe a travel-sized

toothpaste or that last egg in the fridge?

Well, tackle expert DAIWA has something

even lighter – 4.8oz to be exact – in the shape

of the LUVIAS ST (Sensitive Tune) reel and

it might very well be the lightest spinning reel

ever made.

DAIWA field marketing manager Chris

Martin explained: “Specifically, the 1000

and 2000 sizes weigh 4.8oz. We call

them LUVIAS Super Finesse, or SF. The

2500 size increases to a mere 5.3oz and it

goes by LUVIAS Light Tough, or LT.”

Options abound

He feels the applications for such refined and

lightweight reels are many.

He said: “Serious trout anglers are always

trying to lighten up their gear to match with

the premium performance rods they already

depend on, while at the same time seeking

better performance. The LUVIAS family

achieves both objectives.”

The 1000 and 2000 sizes are ideal for

casting trout baits like inline spinners, small

crankbaits and casting spoons, like DAIWA’s

PRESSO RAVE2 or Quanai Spoons.

For stream or stocked rainbow, brook and

typical-sized brown trout, Martin suggests

spooling the LUVIAS SF 1000 and 2000

sizes with 4lb to 6lb XBRAID Finesse or 2lb

to 4lb mono or DAIWA J-FLUORO Samurai

fluorocarbon. Those are perfect line weights

for panfish species, too, like bluegills, crappies

and yellow perch.

A true all-rounder

Engineered for ultra finesse fishing, the

three-model LUVIAS lineup maxes at a 2500

size, which is the starting size for the average

reel collection.

“The LUVIAS LT 2500 is a great

all-around size for everything from

trout to panfish and perch, up to

even walleyes and finesse fishing

smallmouth and largemouth bass,”

added Martin.

“And that’s not to

say LUVIAS models can’t handle

bigger fish – they can, trust me.

The three LUVIAS sizes and

weights are best suited for lighter

gear and finesse tactics, however.”

Line-wise, Martin reckons

the LUVIAS LT 2500 spools

ideally with 6lb or 8lb XBRAID

Finesse or 2lb to 6lb mono or

J-FLUORO fluorocarbon.

So, if you’re still scratching your

head wondering how DAIWA

achieved such miniscule weights,

Martin shared DAIWA’s little secret:

“We actually build the 1000 and 2000


BUSINESS

DOING BUSINESS WITH…

CANADA

The second-largest country in the world, Canada boasts more coastline

than anywhere else – 150,000 miles – not to mention countless streams and

lakes full of a wide range of fish species. It represents a huge opportunity,

especially if you are a tackle manufacturer or brand.

From saltwater king salmon

on the Pacific coast to

trophy muskies and

walleye in the inland lakes,

Canadian anglers demand tackle

that’s durable, specialised and often

tied to local tradition.

Sizing the market

Quantifying recreational fishing in

Canada is a moving target, because

participation varies year-to-year

and by province, with few details as

to the value or sizes of the market.

The federal Survey of

Recreational Fishing in Canada is

the most comprehensive national

source and shows the hobby

remains significant across regions,

with participation concentrated in

provinces that host lots of lakes and

coastline.

The most reliable report,

ironically, comes from 2015, which

puts the number of anglers at

around 3.2 million.

Provincial snapshots make

the scale clearer. Ontario’s 2020

summary estimated about 1.15

million anglers took fishing trips

in that year, spending roughly 15.6

million angling-days and about

CAD $1.74 billion (US$1.25 billion)

on consumables and investments,

including licences, equipment and

travel.

That single-province number

indicates how important

recreational fishing is to local

economies and, by extension, to

demand for tackle.

Regional studies also show

that per-angler spending can be

substantial. For example, a British

Columbia economic-impact

summary reported total spending

per licensed angler (including

travel, gear and services) of over

CAD $1,445 (US$1,030) in

2015 – a useful illustration of

how tackle purchases sit inside a

wider portfolio of angling-related

expenditures (boats, guides, travel,

lodging). Anglers buying high-end

rods, reels and electronics help

push up the average.

In terms of economic value,

some market research reports

estimate the Canada fishing tackle

market at roughly US$70 to 80

million (CAD $97 – CAD$111m

in recent years). These marketsize

estimates capture retail

sales of rods, reels, lures, lines,

terminal tackle and often boating/

electronics when included in the

same product category – and they

show moderate growth as outdoor

recreation trends and specialty

tackle innovation expand demand.

As in many countries, the

market is subject to seasonality

(spring trout runs, summer bass

and walleye, fall salmon/steelhead),

tourism flows (out-of-province and

international anglers) and trends

such as catch-and-release gear,

fly-fishing growth and saltwater

angling tech.

These dynamics drive retail

buying cycles and specialty

niches such as fly shops, saltwater

outfitters or ice-fishing suppliers.

Key sectors

Given the wide range of fishing

available to Canadians and visitors,

there are plenty of opportunities


ECONOMY

FOCUS

CANADA

GDP $2.21 trillion

GDP Growth rate 1.5%

Unemployment rate 7.1%

Top Export Partners:

USA $443B China $38B UK $18B Japan $13B Mexico $9B

to sell a myriad of tackle across a

string of disciplines.

Freshwater anglers make up a

large portion of the recreational

base, especially in Ontario,

Manitoba, Saskatchewan and

Quebec. Look to sell a mix of

rods, reels and lures here, as

anglers target northern pike,

muskellunge, walleye, bass and

lake trout.

Saltwater tackle – for both the

Pacific and Atlantic – includes

heavier rods, corrosion-resistant

reels, big-game lures and terminal

tackle for salmon, halibut and

groundfish. British Columbia’s

salmon and halibut fisheries and

the Atlantic provinces’ sea angling

are important markets for higherpriced

saltwater gear.

Fly rods, reels, lines and flies

represent a premium, techniquedriven

niche. Trout, steelhead

and salmon fly fishing sustain

a network of specialist shops,

guiding services and lodge supply

chains, especially in provinces

with strong river fisheries such

as British Columbia, Alberta,

Newfoundland and Labrador.

Dedicating retail space and

training to fly customers is a

hallmark of this sector.

Unique to cold climates, the

ice-fishing sector includes short

rods, jigging reels, sonar/flashers,

shelter gear and winter-specific

lures. Product innovation, such

as portable shelters or electronics

and hobbyist communities –

most notably tournaments and

social media – have kept this

sector resilient.

Top Import partners:

USA $317B China $63B Mexico $36B Japan $15B

FACT FILE

Capital: Ottawa

Population: 41,651,653

Prime Minister: Mark Carney

Official language: English, French

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time zones: UTC -3.5 to UTC -8

Dialling code: +1

Internet domain: .ca


BUSINESS

Other useful items to stock

include storage boxes, polarised

optics, fishfinders, GPS/

chartplotters and boat/engine

accessories. The latter represents

a growing area. Anglers upgrading

boats and adding electronics

increase the average transaction

size at marine-tackle retailers.

Know your market

Canada’s geographic variety

explains a wide tackle palette.

active anglers and large anglingday

totals underscore consistent

retail demand.

Manitoba, Saskatchewan

and the Prairies

Walleye and northern pike

dominate here, with trolling,

jigging (including ice fishing) and

casting to structures. The region

supports strong mid-range tackle

sales: durable rods and versatile

lures that perform across lakes.

British Columbia (Pacific coast

and interior rivers)

BC is famous for its salmon

(Chinook/King, Coho, Sockeye)

and steelhead fisheries, as well

as saltwater halibut and coastal

rockfish. Saltwater trolling,

downrigging, and river fly/boat

fishing require heavier saltwaterrated

rods/reels, corrosionresistant

hardware and terminal

tackle geared to big, hard-fighting

fish. For lodge and guide clients,

premium gear and spare tackle

sales are common.

Ontario and the Great

Lakes region

Ontario is arguably Canada’s

largest freshwater tackle market

by sheer angler numbers. Walleye,

bass and trophy muskellunge

fisheries shape demand for a

wide assortment of lures (jigs,

crankbaits, swimbaits), mediumlight

to heavy rods and electronics

for offshore structure fishing.

The Great Lakes support

specialised trolling and

downrigging rigs (for salmon and

trout), pushing sales of planer

boards, dipsy divers and robust

reels. Provincial surveys highlight

Ontario’s scale: over a million

Quebec

Pike, trout and walleye fisheries

support both local and tourist

angling. Fly-fishing is also

important in certain river systems.

Atlantic Canada

(Newfoundland & Labrador,

Nova Scotia, New Brunswick,

PEI)

Saltwater and nearshore

species, including groundfish

and coastal salmon runs, create

demand for both lighter inshore

saltwater gear and heavier gear

for offshore charters. Recent

policy changes (for example,

cod fishery reopening decisions)

and commercial dynamics can

influence local recreational fishing

access and tourism patterns.

Northern territories

(Yukon, NWT, Nunavut)

Remote lodges specialising in

Arctic char, lake trout and pike

drive high-end, guided-trip

spending. While the angler base is

smaller, per-trip tackle and guide

gear spend is high.

Each destination implies a

different product mix: shore

anglers want light spinning gear

and soft plastics; boat anglers

invest in electronics and heavier

tackle; fly anglers buy purposebuilt

gear and premium lines.

Retailers that align stock to local

fishery seasons typically capture

the bulk of sales.

Tackle trends

There are many good things about

the Canadian tackle market, a lot

of which share traits with other

countries around the world.

Many anglers, for instance,

trade up for lighter, stronger and

more expensive rods and reels.

Graphite blanks, low-profile

baitcasters and high-precision fly

set ups are in demand.

Fishfinders, mapping and sonar

drive higher ticket sales for boatbased

anglers. Retailers bundling

electronics and installation

services should see incremental

revenue boosts.

Catch-and-release culture,

slot limits and size restrictions

influence terminal-tackle choices

(for example circle hooks or

barbless options) and affect which

lures or baits anglers prioritise.

Online dealers and specialty

e-tailers compete with brickand-mortar

shops; however, local

shops retain advantages for boat

gear, expert advice, immediate

availability and guide partnerships.

Canada has a small but proud

roster of domestic tackle makers

who develop lures and products

tailored to local species and

conditions; such homegrown

brands appeal strongly to the

national market and to export

opportunities.

Major brands in Canada

In common with many territories,

the Canadian tackle landscape

blends global giants with notable

local innovators.

Global names with a strong

Canadian presence include Pure

Fishing – owner of Berkley, Abu

Garcia, Pflueger, Penn, Ugly Stik

and more – which is a dominant

supplier across both freshwater

and saltwater categories. Shimano

and Daiwa are key reel and rod

suppliers while Penn and Okuma

retain saltwater legions for

offshore anglers. These companies

supply the mainstream and

premium categories that most

Canadian retailers stock.


fishing, innovation in materials

(lighter, stronger carbon blanks)

and electronics, plus tourism

growth in post-pandemic travel

can all expand tackle sales.

In addition, the rise of content

creators and community-driven

brands (YouTube, Instagram,

localized fly-tying circles)

provides low-cost marketing

channels for boutique Canadian

tackle makers.

CANADA

Although founded in Finland,

Rapala’s strong distribution

and product lines have deep

penetration in Canada for walleye

and trout lures, fillet knives and

fish-care tools. Its Canadian

online storefront and distributor

network reinforce brand

recognition.

However, the national scene

also includes a number of small/

medium Canadian tackle

companies producing lures and

accessories designed for local

fisheries.

Publications and industry

coverage frequently highlight

brands such as Freedom Tackle,

Livetarget (though originally

US-based, it collaborates with

Canadian retailers), X-Zone

Lures and other innovators

who’ve been punching above

their weight in design and export.

These brands often win praise for

species-specific designs and niche

marketing.

Canadian and North American

rod makers such as G Loomis,

St Croix are widely sold and fill

the premium freshwater and

saltwater blanks market. Custombuild

and boutique fly-rod makers

also cater to the high-end angler.

Retailers typically mix global,

high-volume brand SKUs with a

rotating portfolio of local lures,

soft plastics and limited-edition

products – a strategy that allows

them to serve generalist anglers

and destination-driven specialists

alike.

Distribution drivers

Canada’s tackle distribution

mirrors other developed markets:

specialty fly shops and bait-andtackle

stores (local expertise),

sporting-goods chains (broad

reach), big-box/warehouse

stores (value-oriented lines),

and e-commerce (convenience,

selection). Tour operators and

lodges are important wholesale

and retail partners in regions with

large guided-tour economies;

they buy in bulk for guests, resell

spare gear and push premium

product lines (rods/reels/

electronics).

Given seasonal cycles, many

retailers rely on pre-season

purchases (spring stocking)

and in-season restocking for

key species migrations. Shops

that provide rigging, electronics

installation or guide partnerships

can gain a competitive edge.

Challenges and

opportunities

Among the key challenges for

the Canadian tackle market are

angler demographics in some

regions, competition from

digital entertainment, supplychain

pressures for specialty

components and regulatory shifts

affecting fisheries access.

On the plus side, rising interest

in outdoor recreation, younger

anglers discovering fly and kayak

What to watch

• Stock seasonally and regionally

– region-specific assortments

(ice gear in the Prairies, saltwater

rigs on the coasts) reduce dead

inventory and increase turnover.

• Bundle services –

installations, rigging and

guide partnerships turn single

purchases into higher-value,

repeat relationships.

• Embrace omni-channel – a

mix of local pick up, online

catalogues and social media

engagement keeps brands in

front of anglers year-round.

• Leverage local advantages

– highlight Canadian-made

items and species-specific

tackle to attract both locals and

destination anglers.

Final cast – future

markets

The Canadian tackle industry

sits at a crossroads of tradition

and innovation. With millions of

anglers spread across provinces

that offer an astonishing variety

of fisheries, the market supports

both mass-market and boutique

suppliers.

Provincial spending figures

and national survey data

underline that anglers remain

willing to invest in the sport –

rods and reels are not just tools,

they’re part of a lifestyle that

supports guides, lodges, retail

shops and a small but vibrant

manufacturing base.

For entrepreneurs and

retailers, the recipe is simple:

stock for the local fishery, offer

expertise, partner with the

tourism and guide economy

and keep an eye on sustainable

practices.

For anglers, Canada’s tackle

market will keep evolving

with lighter materials, smarter

electronics and locally designed

lures tailored to northern pike,

walleye, salmon and trout.

The line between recreation

and economy is taut; as long as

Canadians keep getting out on

the water, the tackle industry will

keep turning.

WWW.TACKLETRADEWORLD.COM

35

FEATURE

ZHONGYUAN ALLJOY –

A GLOBAL LEADER IN FISHING

MANUFACTURING

China Bihai Fishing Expo

Column Vol. 6

Hosted by the China Bihai Fishing

Expo (CBFE), this event aims

to showcase high-quality

Chinese fishing 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 fishing 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.

The event warmly welcomes fishing

enthusiasts and industry professionals from

around the globe to attend!

Organising committee : +86 010-62071529

Fax: + 86 010-82259813

Email: china@bjbhdj.cn

Website: www.bhdjz.com

Address: No. 9 Linmen, Deshengmen East Binhe Road,

Xicheng District, Beijing

WeChat Official Account: bh-62071529

Ningbo Zhongyuan Alljoy Fishing

Tackle Co., Ltd. was established

in 2009 and is located at the

southern bridgehead of the

Hangzhou Bay Bridge, in the Hangzhou

Bay New District, Ningbo, Zhejiang

Province.

It is adjacent to the ‘paradise’ Hangzhou,

neighbouring the ‘famous port’ Ningbo,

surrounded by the Yangtze River Delta, and

closely connected with the Great Shanghai. As

such, transportation is very convenient.

Modern and experienced

Zhongyuan Alljoy is a modernised, national

high-tech enterprise that enjoys wide

popularity, both domestically and overseas.

It integrates both R&D and sales of sport

fishing products and provides high-quality

tournament resources and services.

The company covers an area of 200

mu (133,334 sq m), with a building area of

130,000 sq m and a registered capital of RMB

89,064,000 yuan.

The company independently researches

and develops more than 100 series and 1,000

varieties of spinning reels, trolling reels and

low-profile baitcasting reels, with an annual

production capacity of 12 million fishing

reels, which are subsequently exported to

the United States, Brazil, Australia, Japan,

Europe, Southeast Asia, and over 80 other

countries and regions.

It has been granted National High-Tech

Enterprise status, the Top Ten Enterprises

in the Fishing Tackle Business of China’s

Light Industry, The Engineering Technology

Center of Zhejiang Province, The Satisfied

and Assured Factory, The Top 20 Taxpaying

Enterprise, The No Unpaid Wages

Demonstration Enterprise and many other

honours and titles.

The company owns 117 patents, including

26 invention patents, 28 utility model patents

and 63 design ones.

With the spirit of “climbing to the top,

surpassing oneself,” Zhongyuan Alljoy is

taking a brand-new attitude towards the

internationalisation of the market, the

industrial structure and the modernisation

of the production scale enterprise group

formation.


LINXIANG FLOAT

CUP FUELS $140M IN

TACKLE CONSUMPTION

CHINA

The city of Linxiang in Hunan,

known as China’s hometown

of fishing tackle and floats,

recently hosted the successful

third Linxiang Float Cup Golden Autumn

Angling Competition, once again setting

a new record for the highest single-event

prize money in Chinese fishing history.

The highly anticipated tournament boasted

a total prize pool exceeding 1.7478 million

yuan, with the top prize alone reaching an

unprecedented 1.09 million yuan, making it

the highest-paying single fishing competition

in China to date.

Local team Golden Eye Team 1 ultimately

claimed the record-breaking 1.09 million yuan

championship award.

This competition was not merely a sporting

event but a successful model for Linxiang’s

local government to promote high-quality

regional economic development through the

‘high-prize + featured industry’ approach.

The tournament attracted 512 teams and

1,024 top anglers from across the country,

drawing over 50,000 participants, fishing

enthusiasts, merchants and tourists to

Linxiang.

Industry boost

This massive influx of people resulted in

a significant boost to local consumption.

According to statistics, during the event, the

total business turnover in Linxiang City’s

catering, accommodation, wholesale, retail,

cultural tourism and local specialty industries

(including floats, bamboo products, and local

sauces) surpassed the 1 billion yuan mark.

This fully demonstrated the strong driving

force of the ‘Angling +’ model on the regional

economy.

Linxiang, the ‘home of fishing floats’, has

built a massive industry worth over 8.5 billion

yuan annually from a small fishing float,

accounting for 85 per cent of the domestic

market share with an annual output of over

200 million units.

In recent years, Linxiang has focused on the

float industry and used angling competitions

as a key platform to actively explore a new

path of integrated development involving

competition, industry, city, culture and

tourism.

By hosting such high-level, high-prize

fishing tournaments, Linxiang has not

only energised its own industry but also

successfully transformed event traffic into

economic growth, showcasing the unique

industrial and urban marketing appeal of the

‘Pearl of Dongting Lake’s Floats.’


w

FEATURE

GATHERING IN SHANGHAI,

EMPOWERING THE GLOBE!

Shanghai International Lure

Fishing Show 2026 is China’s only

interactive exhibition themed

on lure fishing, gathering global

professional buyers, facilitating precise

business matching and integrating crossindustry

resources to help brands acquire

customers efficiently and expand their

market.

From March 29th to 31st, 2026, the Shanghai

International Lure Fishing Show will grandly

open at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition &

Convention Center!

Affectionately called the “Spring Festival

Gala of the lure fishing world” by enthusiasts,

the Shanghai International Lure Fishing

Show is renowned for being fun, exciting and

professional.

Unlike traditional trade shows, it aims

to present an outdoor culture – products

alone may be impersonal but the passion

of enthusiasts is fiery. The experiential

exhibition model not only showcases product

features effectively but also enhances the

rapport between brands and the lure fishing

community.

Lure culture encompasses more than just

fishing rods, lures and reels; it extends to

derivative products such as apparel, off-road

vehicles, fishing boats, auxiliary equipment

and cutting-edge outdoor tech – innovation is

everywhere.

Yet, the core charm of the show lies in the

emotional bonds within the community and the

reunion of old and new friends from all corners

of the world. A long-awaited embrace speaks

louder than words! People with shared passions,

sharing their stories – this is a precious lifestyle.

It offers:

Uniqueness: China’s only international

exhibition dedicated to the lure fishing industry,

covering the entire ecosystem chain including

tackle, gear, apparel, and cultural tourism.

High Growth: Audience numbers grew

by over 35 per cent in 2025, attracting nearly

50,000 professional buyers, with a 35 per cent

increase in overseas purchasers.

Innovative model: The pioneering ‘Lure

Fishing+’ cross-integration exhibition links

outdoor, trend and cultural tourism resources,

amplifying brand influence.

High conversion: International

procurement matching success rate reached

40 per cent, with 94 per cent purchaser

satisfaction, helping businesses achieve precise

deals.

High exposure: Empowered by

OmniMedia, the exhibition’s hot topic views

exceeded 18.385 million, topping the Trending

topic for the third consecutive year.

Themed totally on lure fishing

The Shanghai International Lure Fishing

Show is China’s only interactive exhibition

focused on lure fishing. It expands rapidly each

year, introducing remarkable innovations and

themes.

The 2025 edition attracted 48,378 domestic

and international visitors, a 35.88 per cent

increase from the previous year, with overseas

professional buyers growing by 35 per cent.

The exhibition reaches professional buyers

from 100-plus countries and regions, including

international purchasers (tackle distributors

from Europe, America, Southeast Asia and the

Middle East), e-commerce platforms (Amazon,

Taobao Outdoor, top vertical service providers

on Tik Tok) and cross-industry channels

(outdoor retail stores, cultural tourism sites).

‘Lure Fishing+’ integrated exhibition

model

The ‘Lure Fishing+’ model is not only an

innovation in exhibition format but also a

breakthrough in industry boundaries.

With the rise of the ‘pan-outdoors’ concept,

lure fishing is expanding from professional

angling to the broader outdoor leisure lifestyle,

becoming a rising lifestyle to connect with

nature, sports, and social activities. Notably,

more tourism areas are establishing lure fishing


bases, creating merchandise and even hosting

events.

‘Lure Fishing + Cultural Tourism’ has

spawned an emerging market with an annual

output value exceeding RMB 2 billion, making

2026 a critical window for brands to capitalise

on industry integration.

In response, the Shanghai International Lure

Fishing Show has proactively moved beyond

traditional equipment sales, launching the ‘Lure

Fishing+’ model to integrate cultural tourism

and cross-industry brands, enabling true

resource exchange and mutual empowerment

and opening new paths for business growth.

Amplifying brand exposure

The 2026 edition will feature even more new

changes and highlights. The organisers have

meticulously planned four core event IPs: Lure

Auction, Lure Catwalk Show, China Lure

Skills Challenging Competition and Mercury

Champions’ Lounge, creating comprehensive

marketing scenarios for exhibitors to meet

business needs with high concentration, strong

leadership, extensive synergy, professionalism

and wide dissemination.

Tapping into a trillion-yuan market

To better empower exhibitors and extend their

reach, the 2026 show will continue to provide

business and display services.

The 2025 Lure Fishing Business

Matchmaking Event achieved remarkable

results, attracting 43 international purchasers

from 21 countries and regions, with a 40 per

cent matching success rate and 94 per cent

purchaser satisfaction.

In 2026, it will further expand scale and

optimise services, connecting more overseas

purchasers and accurate enterprises to increase

matching success rates, making it a vital

platform for businesses to engage globally and

unlock trillion-yuan market opportunities.

Omni-channel media matrix

empowerment

Shanghai Sinoexpo Informa Markets

International Exhibition Co., Ltd., with nearly

40 years of industry experience, is a benchmark

in China’s exhibition space, leveraging deep

operational expertise and a powerful media

resource network.

This year, the Shanghai International Lure

Fishing Exhibition achieved outstanding results

again, with #LureShow# topic views on Tiktok

exceeding 18.385 million, topping the Trending

topic for the third year and continuously

growing industry influence.

SEM search clicks: 162,694

Self-media and community promotion

impressions: 16,000,000+

Online feeds promotion impressions:

43,060,683

Weibo topic interaction impressions:

4,120,015

Tik Tok topic plays: 18,385,000+

Xiaohongshu topic views: 3,072,000+

Contact Information

Tel:+86-13636577731, +86-21-33392051

Email: Michael.OuYang@imsinoexpo.com

Website: www.expolifestyle.com/en/lure

Wechat Official Account: Expolifestyle

Exhibitors’ Comments

SHIMANO

We are thrilled and grateful to the

Shanghai International Lure Fishing

Show for the opportunity to showcase

our products and interact with anglers.

The turnout was unexpectedly high, with

many enthusiasts engaging at our booth.

Although the fishing tackle industry is

said to be in a downturn, seeing so many

distributors, agents, and anglers with

such passion for lure fishing gives us

great confidence. We hope the exhibition

continues annually, growing even more

popular and successful.

JACKALL

Our goal this year was to promote our

extensive product line to avid domestic

anglers and introduce our brand to more

enthusiasts and distributors, while also

encouraging participation in our future

events. The exhibition felt like a carnival,

fostering deep industry exchange

and shared joy in lure fishing. We are

grateful for the opportunity and wish the

exhibition continued growth and success!

KIMPLE

This was our sixth time participating in the

Shanghai International Lure Fishing Show.

This year featured many new products

and the organisers put great effort into

the event. Attendance was significantly

higher than previous years, especially

among female visitors, with increased

interaction and professionalism. Many

new brands also exhibited, reflecting the

exhibition’s commitment to being truly

interactive. We look forward to continuing

our partnership and growing together!

SIMMS

We noticed a higher standard this year,

with many companies investing effort in

their booths and activities. The organisers

added numerous events and the main

stage was lively and diverse daily. We

encourage everyone to experience

it firsthand and wish the exhibition

continued success! Let’s wild venture

together!

EWE

As a lure fishing equipment brand, we

have participated multiple times. The

exhibition offers a vibrant, professional

platform for showcasing lure culture and

gear. This year saw a huge audience, with

major brands gathering to display the

latest equipment and technology. We

hope more international brands will join in

the future, creating new synergies!

CHINA

*(The image [left] represents only a portion of

exhibitors, listed in no particular order.)

We sincerely invite domestic and international

enterprises to collaborate and explore the

boundless opportunities in China’s lure fishing

market. The 2026 exhibition partnership

channels are now open! Seize the industry

trend and gain a market advantage! Inquire

now to book your booth and enjoy early

bird rates!


MAKING CONTACT

1 2

3

MAKING CONTACT

Do you want your

products to be seen

by thousands of

potential buyers…

FREE of charge?

Then get in touch,

we’d love to hear

from you.

JOHN HUNTER

+44 7990 542958

john.hunter@artichokehq.com

Contact John directly for

details of how to send

your product / images and

a short description to

Tackle Trade World.

1 BERKLEY

RIPFISH LURE

This is said to be a first-of-its-kind

combination of a fast-dropping

lipless bait and a wide-gliding hard

bait, designed to give anglers total

control. Built around a sleek,

minnow-profile body, the Ripfish

brings together rapid fall rates

with erratic lateral movement,

creating a hybrid action that

excels in vertical and forwardfacing

sonar presentations.

With its flat-bottom design

and precision-tuned balance, it

responds instantly to angler input

– darting, gliding or hovering on

command.

It’s available in a wide range

of colours and in two sizes – 7cm

and 9cm.

berkleyfishing.com

2 RODHOUSE

WKS-PRODIGY STATEMENT 724

This rod excels at all predator

fishing “bottom-contact”

techniques, where bite feedback

is essential and indispensable.

It is built on a Rodbuilders’

Republic blank (made in the USA

by NFC, Gary Loomis’ factory),

assembled in Rodhouse’s

workshops in France and fitted

with Titanium Torzite guides and a

carbon handle.

Rodhouse is Europe’s specialist

in rod building and brings strong

expertise to the sector.

The rod is part of an exceptional

range of 13 models, for which

Rodhouse is seeking one

distributor per country in Europe.

wholesale@rodhouse.com

3 PLANO

TRAY TACKLE BOXES

Plano has refreshed its iconic

tray tackle box line with bold new

colours and expanded its offering

with species-specific kits.

Beloved by generations

of anglers, these tray-style

boxes remain a cornerstone of

Plano’s lineup, combining smart

organisation with a fresh, modern

twist and are built to last.

All boxes feature customisable

compartments, bulk storage in

the base and lid compartments

for quick access to small bait or

tackle.

Anglers can choose from

standalone boxes, all-in-one

Catch-All kits or species-specific

kits to suit their needs on the

water.

planooutdoors.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…

JANUARY 2026

Ad Copy: November 14th, 2025

Mailed: December 3rd, 2025

Special issue: New Gear

Spotlight: Boat Accessories

Doing Business With: France

FEBRUARY 2026

Ad Copy: December 19th, 2025

Mailed: January 14th, 2026

Special issue: Bass fishing/China Fish

Spotlight: Reels

Doing Business With: Great Lakes, USA

MARCH 2026

Ad Copy: January 23rd, 2026

Mailed: February 11th, 2026

Special issue: Fly fishing

Spotlight: Rods

Doing Business With: Scandinavia

To submit news or editorial for

any of these issues, contact:

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

contact our business development team:

EDITOR

JOHN HUNTER

T: + 44 (0)7990 542958

E: john.hunter@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

FEATURE

MARKETING

FOLLOWING UP YOUR

TRADE SHOW VISIT

You may have attended ICAST, the Australian tackle trade

show or are maybe EFTTEX in Brussels. But when you

return from any of these events, what should do with all

the knowledge and information you have collected?

If you had a booth, share highlights and

feedback. This helps extend your visibility

beyond the event and can engage clients who

didn’t attend.

Grow relationships

Not every connection will result in

immediate business but that doesn’t mean

they’re not valuable. Add new contacts to

your email list or CRM system and set up

a follow-up schedule. You might send a

quarterly newsletter, check in with useful

information or invite them to future events.

Attending a trade show can be an

exciting and valuable experience,

whether you’re an entrepreneur,

a sales representative or a buyer

scouting for new products and ideas.

However, the real return on investment

comes after the event – when you strategically

follow up on connections, insights and

opportunities to ensure it doesn’t stop when

the show doors close.

Get organised

Before diving into follow-ups, organise the

business cards, brochures and promotional

materials you collected. Digitise business

cards using a scanning app or CRM system

and categorise contacts by priority: hot leads,

warm leads, vendors and general networking.

Keep notes on who each contact is and

what you discussed – this helps personalise

your communication later.

Prompt and personal

Reach out to key contacts within 48 to 72

hours if possible, while the event is still fresh

in everyone’s minds. Whether it’s an email or

a LinkedIn message, make it personal.

Reference something specific from your

conversation at the trade show to stand

out. If you’re following up with potential

clients, offer a next step – like scheduling a

call, sending a proposal or providing more

information.

Review and reflect

Set aside time to evaluate the event overall.

What worked? What didn’t? Did you meet

your objectives? This could include assessing

how many qualified leads you generated, how

well your booth or team performed, or how

useful the seminars and networking were.

Document your takeaways and suggestions

for improvement in a post-show report.

Share internally

If you attended on behalf of your company,

share insights and materials with your

team. Provide a debrief on market trends,

competitor strategies or interesting products

you saw.

Share leads with your sales team, insights

with marketing and any operational ideas

with product development or customer

service.

Marketing opportunities

Trade shows offer a treasure trove of content.

Post photos or thoughts about the event

on social media, tagging in people and

companies, where relevant. Write a blog

post summarising key industry trends or

innovations you noticed.

Plan for the next one

Finally, think ahead. Was this show worth

your time and money? If so, start planning

early for the next one – book your space,

brainstorm booth improvements and

strategise how to attract more leads. If not,

use your notes to decide on better-suited

events.

Attending a trade show is just the

beginning. With the right post-show strategy,

you can transform a few days of networking

and exploration into months – or even years –

of valuable business opportunities.


Tackle Trade World - December 2025

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Tackle Trade World - December 2025

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

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