Celebrating its 66th year, the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades…
Celebrating its 66th year, the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades—better known as ICAST—returns to Orlando, FL, and the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) from July 11-14, for the planet’s largest sportfishing trade show. Produced annually by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), the show is the largest, single event for the recreational fishing trade.
“ICAST is the cornerstone of the global sportfishing industry,” said ASA President Glenn Hughes. “ICAST is where connections are made that create business opportunities for our industry. It’s also where most new products make their debut into the fishing marketplace.”
ICAST offers more than 12,000 attendees representing dozens of countries the opportunity to see and interact with thousands of products from hundreds of manufacturers displaying colorful lures, clothing, watercraft, glowing marine electronics, and multi-hued rods and reels. Tackle manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and a host of global media all mingle at this once-a-year event.
“We have more than 600 companies on the show floor,” said Trade Show and Membership Vice President Blake Swango. “Many of them work year-round to develop and launch new products at the show to take advantage of the tremendous combination of buyers and media who converge in Orlando.”
ICAST starts on Tuesday, July 11, as attendees and professional anglers converge on beautiful Lake Toho to compete in the ICAST Cup Bass Fishing Tournament.
With six new fly fishing categories and two new boating accessory categories, the ICAST New Product Showcase includes more exciting new products than ever. Credentialed media and dealers get their first in-person look at this expansive gallery featuring hundreds of fresh new tackle, apparel, and lifestyle products at the New Product Showcase Preview Reception on Tuesday. Buyers and media have the opportunity to vote on the ICAST Best of Show awards while entering their name into a drawing for a chance to win one of three $500 cash prizes.
The New Product Showcase entries will be available for viewing on the ICAST app and on the ICAST website starting at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11. Images, descriptions, and video of the tackle, apparel, and accessories debuting in 2023 are open for viewing by attendees and the general public.
On Wednesday evening, the results of dedicated design, research, and development teams come full circle at the Industry Awards Reception. An elevated aura of anticipation fills the OCCC’s ballroom as voting results for the New Product Showcase awards are announced onstage. Surrounded by industry media and peers, this is the manufacturers’ evening to shine as product category winners are announced, trophies are presented, and the stage is set for ICAST’s most coveted prize.
Category winners move on to a special voting round where they are pitted against each other for the overall Best of Show award, announced at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday in the New Product Showcase.
Loaded with helpful features, the ICAST mobile app, sponsored by Bonnier Corporation, is a one-stop shop for maps, event schedules, booth locations, and exhibitor listings. Available on both Android and Apple devices, the app is a convenient digital companion to keep a busy week organized.
