ICAST 2021 launches with an on-site, in-person event-filled “Super Tuesday”

ICAST 2021 launches with an on-site, in-person event-filled “Super Tuesday” © ICAST

The 64th International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades - better known as ICAST, launched yesterday with Super Tuesday, an activity-filled day that featured the ICAST On The Water product demos, the MLF ICAST Cup Bass Fishing Tournament and the New Product Showcase Preview Reception.

Being held in the North Building at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Fla., ICAST 2021 is the first in-person trade event for the recreational fishing industry this year and is in full swing until Friday, July 23.

ICAST is produced by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA). ASA is the national, non-profit trade association that represents the business interests of the sportfishing industry and the broader recreational fishing community.

With more than 475 exhibitors, ICAST is the largest showcase of fishing tackle, apparel and accessories offering a week-long lineup of business and networking events. The Marine Accessories Pavilion, hosted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), will also be on the ICAST show floor.

"Despite all the technology at our fingertips, the recreational fishing industry thrives on face-to-face interaction," said ASA President Glenn Hughes. "Since early Spring, our members told us they want to get back to business and reconnect with colleagues and friends. Unquestionably, the energy and enthusiasm on the show floor and at today's events is a great start to the week."

This year's presenting sponsor is Take Me Fishing™. ASA and the Recreational Fishing & Boating Foundation, which promotes fishing and boating through Take Me Fishing, work together on programs to engage people of all ages in fishing and boating.

Super Tuesday product demos at On The Water

On The Water attracts hundreds of buyers and media looking for a hands-on, real-time experience. The event was held on five acres of water and open space outside the OCCC's North Building. Buyers and media gained hands-on experience while testing the latest tackle, gear, electronics, kayaks, and SUPs. Gill Fishing provided support for the event.

"It was fantastic to see exhibitors, media and buyers reconnecting at our On The Water product demo day," said Blake Swango, ASA's vice president for Trade Show and Membership. "We're pleased that ICAST, once again, serves as the in-person showcase for the best in sportfishing and the entire outdoor, on-the-water experience."

Super Tuesday tournament results

Earlier in the day, teams competed in the MLF ICAST Cup Bass Fishing Tournament at nearby Lake Toho Marina. The overall winners, Terrie Huffmaster, Tonya Michelle and pro Jackson Williams of Team Lucky Go Fishing/Fish Bites, took home the ICAST Cup.

All proceeds from the tournament benefit Keep America Fishing, the sportfishing industry's grass roots advocacy program for our nation's 55 million anglers.

"We are thrilled to be returning to an in-person ICAST," said Dave Washburn, MLF vice president of Operations. "We've raised more than $50,000 for Keep America Fishing over the years, and this year's ICAST Cup is bigger than ever with the addition of Team USA Bass qualification for the highest-finishing team of two female anglers."

The women's winning pair of Michelle Jalba and Melissa Young earned a spot on Team USA along with other fishing pros who will represent the United States in the 2022 Pan American Black Bass Championship.

New product showcase preview reception

Super Tuesday concludes with the evening's New Product Showcase Preview Reception. The New Product Showcase, sponsored by Fishing Tackle Retailer, is a once-a-year opportunity to see the latest and greatest innovations all in one place.

For ICAST 2021, 686 new products were entered by 218 companies. All New Product Showcase entries are available for viewing on the ICAST website and on the ICAST app available for Apple and Android devices.

During the Preview Reception, registered Buyers and Media Editorial badge holders began the voting process for the 30 "Best of Category" awards.

The ICAST 2021 New Product Showcase "Best of Category" winners will be announced during the Wednesday night Chairman's Industry Awards Reception, sponsored by St. Croix Rod, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the OCCC.

Buyers and media will then head to the New Product Showcase on Thursday morning between 9:00 a.m. and noon to vote for the "Best of Show."

The ICAST 2021 overall "Best of Show" award will be announced at 2:00 p.m. in the New Product Showcase. All badged show attendees are invited to attend.