ICAST 2011

July 16, 2011 - Posted by Steve Dall Just returned from Las Vegas where I spent several days combing the aisles of the Las Vegas Convention Center while attending ICAST. The International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades, better known as ICAST, is the world’s largest sportfishing trade show annually hosting 7,000 members of the sportfishing industry representing 63 countries. ICAST is produced by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), the sportfishing industry’s trade association, which looks out for the interests of the entire sportfishing community. ICAST the premier showcase for the latest innovations in fishing gear, accessories and apparel and is the cornerstone of the sportfishing industry, helping to drive sportfishing companies’ product sales year round. Every year those of us in the industry anxiously await to see what the industry as a whole is doing and often certain years drive certain trends. Certain social networking sites and other tackle websites generally give insight prior to the show as to what trends may occur and this year it was really difficult to see what may get introduced. As a whole, I perceived the show as being "techy". There seemed to be definite buzz about the new components used in rods, reels and lures this year. I saw everything from metallic oil in Daiwa's new Saltiga spinning reels to every known lighter and stronger material used in rods. Definitely a sign of our times that the competition to bring the best to the consumer while balancing costs is the trend I see. I am anxiously looking forward to the 2012 ICAST as it will be in my home state of Florida up in Orlando and I will be working with the folks at Cashion Fishing Rods. Until next time, tight lines and good fishing!