ASA's 2025 Sportfishing Summit discussed important issues facing recreational anglers
by American Sportfishing Association 15 Oct 13:03 UTC
2025 Sportfishing Summit © American Sportfishing Association
On Friday, ASA's Annual Sportfishing Summit ended following an incredible week of industry conversations and committee meetings.
The event featured several important policy discussions, where we celebrated recent victories while discussing additional ways to protect angling access and safeguard important fisheries.
The recreational fishing industry made headway on several priorities this year, many of which were highlighted at ASA's Summit. These included the defeat of a bottomfishing ban off Florida's Atlantic coast, withdrawal of NOAA's vessel speed rule, and progress on important legislative priorities, including the MAPOceans/MAPWaters bills and SHARKED Act.
Meanwhile, our members recognized the need to continue combating harmful pending proposals. These issues exist throughout the nation, with discussions on lead tackle, striped bass targeting closures, and commercial menhaden harvesting taking center stage. Tariffs also remained central to Summit conversations, with members discussing the impact of tariffs on their businesses while preparing for potential refunds. ASA thanks our members for their commitment to furthering our industry, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to next year's Summit in Point Clear, Alabama from October 20-23, 2026.