GTW
FEATURE
t h e V o i c e f o r t h e
S p o r t f i s h i n g I n d u s t r y
The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) is a national,
non-profit trade association that serves as the unifying voice
of a diverse, multi-billion-dollar industry.
As the champion for the sportfishing
industry, ASA advocates for and
invests in long-term ventures
to safeguard and promote the enduring
economic, conservation and social values
of sportfishing. ASA supports the interests
of hundreds of businesses, agencies and
organisations.
ASA’s members include sportfishing
and boating manufacturers and their
representatives, allied manufacturers,
independent and chain outdoor retail
stores, state fish and wildlife agencies,
conservation organizations, federal land
and water management agencies, angler
advocacy groups, outdoor media groups and
journalists.
ICAST: A Showcase for the Entire
On-the-Water Experience
This year, ASA will once again produce
ICAST, the world’s largest sportfishing
trade show. The International Convention of
Allied Sportfishing Trades – better known as
ICAST – covers an area larger than several
(American) football fields and includes a
five-acre water feature for testing everything
from fishing tackle to kayaks.
“ICAST isn’t just a US show; it’s an
international event,” said Blake Swango,
54 www.guntradeworld.com
ASA’s Vice President for Trade Show and
Membership. “ICAST 2018 drew more
than 15,000 individuals from 71 countries.
ICAST’s international stature is one reason
major outdoor brands plan new product
introductions specifically for our show.”
ICAST 2019 is scheduled for July 9th
to 12th, 2019, at the Orange County
Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
Registration begins in February, so now is
the time to start making plans to attend.
The audience for ICAST goes far beyond
manufacturers and buyers of fishing tackle
alone. In a single venue retailers, media
and other show attendees can see the latest
products not just from the top fishing
brands but outdoor lifestyle brands as well,
including accessories, apparel, footwear,
coolers, sunglasses and much more.
Swango further said, “ICAST is ASA’s
most exciting, high-visibility annual event.
That means new products, new connections
and new business possibilities for everyone
who attends.”
“The excitement level and attendance grow
every year,” added Swango. “We encompass
the entire on-the-water experience. Because
we attract thousands of potential buyers to a
single location, the manufacturers bring their
entire product lines.”
The ICAST New Product Showcase is
particularly popular. Taking up a special
section of the show floor, the Showcase
provides special visibility for the latest
innovations in gear, apparel, accessories and
outdoor lifestyle products. In 2018 Best
New Product awards were presented in 25
categories as well as the overall Best of Show.
ICAST also offers a unique depth of
product expertise. Manufacturers’ reps,
technical experts, industry consultants and
professional anglers willingly share their
knowledge and opinions in an informal,
face-to-face setting. For any retailer with
questions about products, pricing, service or
marketing, there’s no better place to get wellinformed
answers.
“Building relationships is a large part of
what ICAST is all about,” said Swango.
“Even in the Internet age, nothing takes the
place of face-to-face communication.”
ICAST launches on Tuesday, July 9,th
with the popular On the Water event held
just outside the North Hall on a five-acre
water feature. It’s a chance to cast the latest
rods, reels, lures and lines—plus experience
new SUP and kayak models.
ICAST 2019 attendee registration opens
in February at www.iCASTfishing.org
/www.guntradeworld.com
/www.iCASTfishing.org
