Fishing may be one of our favorite pastimes and is the topic of many articles, podcasts, videos, and books created by our members. However, it’s also big business, and a visit to the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) is an eye-opening experience to see that firsthand. The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) produces this annual trade show that brings together hundreds of the best brands in the industry, including many new ones that are introducing the latest lures, rods, and electronics.
Garrett Briggs, Public Affairs Assistant for the American Sportfishing Association, shared, “ICAST 2026 was one of the most successful shows in recent history, thanks in no small part to coverage from outdoor media and OWAA members. This year, we welcomed nearly 12,000 attendees to Orlando, including 540+ exhibitors and 3,050 retailers, to cement ICAST’s status as the world’s preeminent sportfishing trade show. ICAST cannot exist in a bubble, though, and it’s more important than ever that outdoor media continue to attend the show and help spread the word about new products, innovations and issues affecting the sportfishing industry.”
OWAA’s Orlando Off-the-Record lunch – ICAST edition
OWAA members receive free admission to this iconic fishing event, and those that attend have the opportunity to see the newest fishing gear and find great stories to tell. It is the place to be with the movers and shakers in the fishing industry. The icing on the cake is that it is a chance for us to get together, have a nice lunch, tell fish tales, share advice, and grow our relationships with our fellow outdoor communicators.
OWAA members met up for a casual off-the-record lunch that week. Member Gary Gillett said, “After a five-year hiatus, walking back into ICAST reminded me why it matters. The show floor and the OWAA luncheon both did what they’re supposed to do: put you back in the room with people who make this industry work.”
OWAA members also took the stage at ICAST
Some of our OWAA members in attendance also had an opportunity to showcase their own individual brands by being involved in the event in a deeper way. OWAA Board Member Amanda Thompson showcased her outdoor brand, Expedition Taste, by serving up her custom cocktails at ASA’s booth during ICAST’s happy hour on the trade show floor. She’s enjoyed the show for years, and was proud to take a more active role in the event this year.
Thompson said, “ICAST isn’t just about seeing the latest and greatest products in the fishing industry — it’s about learning new tips, watching engaging seminars, catching up with old friends, and making new connections. I attended for years as a buyer, and now that I’m in freelance media, I still make it a priority. No matter your role in the fishing world, there are so many opportunities to learn, grow, and connect at ICAST. And let’s be honest — a cocktail hour every day at 4, with giant bluefin tuna carved up for fresh sushi, doesn’t hurt either. Other trade shows just can’t match this relaxed atmosphere.”
OWAA member Greg Thompson got in on the fun as well. As host of Girl Dad Outdoors Podcast, he hosted a panel discussion on the ICAST Live stage to talk about youth fishing in a session called “Teaching Kids to Fish is Teaching Kids to Stay.” He helped share a compelling message about instilling a love of fishing in the next generation.
Other highlights
There are so many different ways to experience ICAST. You can get out on the water for the ICAST Cup Fishing Tournament, throw back a cold beverage at Party for a Purpose, or attend educational sessions. Here are a few of the other experiences I really enjoyed:
- Steve Harvey and Bill Dance – It was so cool seeing these two fishing legends on stage together and they provided an entertaining discussion for spectators.
- Women in Angling Area – As a female angler, it was awesome to see a dedicated area for this group. It was also fun to see new brands who showcased fishing gear specifically for women, such as SheFish and Boujee Marlin.
- Media Reception – ASA hosted a private reception with food and drinks that gave journalists and content creators another opportunity to connect and catch up.
- New Product Showcase – There is a preview reception held prior to the opening of the trade show floor that lets you see the new products that are competing in different categories. As members of the media, we get to be judges and cast votes for our favorites.
The types of products you’ll see at ICAST
The fishing industry encompasses much more than just rods, reels, and lures. Those things are obviously extremely important, and let’s face it, we wouldn’t be catching too many fish without those. At ICAST, you’ll see the best new products that fall into those categories – many that haven’t even hit the shelves yet. The show really opens up your mind to the other necessities we need as anglers, though. Some of the other fun products I saw while there included:
- The Engel 3-Bottle Wine and Champagne Cooler – This took the award for best cooler in the New Product Showcase. Who doesn’t like to toast at the end of a great day of fishing?
- Lapeyroux’s Fishing Hand Cleaner Wipes – These come in handy when you’re baiting hooks all day. They don’t have a harsh chemical smell, but still get the fishy smell to go away.
- Something’s Buggin – As much as I love being on the water, I don’t like the bug bites that sometimes come along with it. I also don’t like dousing myself in chemicals, so it was cool to find this plant-based insect repellent.
- BUZBE Magnetic Launch Pad – I hate fumbling around with tackle and losing things, and I think this magnetic work station was an interesting find. Others did too, as it won the award for best custom tackle and components in the New Product Showcase.
Why fishing stories matter
ASA is the industry leader in sportfishing advocacy in the United States. Their website has so much great information ranging from places to fish to information on current issues that affect the fishing industry. By attending ICAST, you’ll get an even deeper appreciation for the massive significance that anglers have on the economy.
A few of the fun facts I learned at this year’s show included:
- 42.6 million people are freshwater anglers.
- 15.5 million anglers prefer saltwater.
- 7.9 million people enjoy fly fishing.
- 6.5 million people fished for the first time in 2025.
- The sport has seen 25% growth in the last decade.
Those numbers put into perspective just how many people our stories can reach, and the role outdoor communicators play in sharing the issues, innovations, and experiences shaping the sport.
We want to extend a sincere thank you to our Supporting Group, the American Sportfishing Association, for inviting OWAA members to attend ICAST.
Save the Date
July 13-16, 2027
ICAST in Orlando, Florida