CARP GIANTS TARGET USA
Hardy and Dynamite y Baits reveal eveal their planss
July 2010 Issue 30
STAEFTT E N O X T D D MAILE 34 G 0 , 3 1 S 1 SINESSE 0 BU IDESTT OUR W YE REACH
Essential reading for buyers in the tackle trade Now w online at angling-internation angling-international.com
GLOBAL BUSINESS
The greatest rod development in 25 years!
Hardy & Greys: “This is as big a leap as glass fibre to carbon” Full story p6
Austalians unveil ‘best ever lure’
Basser Millyard seeks new partners for the Warlock p56
FULL PREVIEW STARTS p28
STAND SALES UP FOR 2010 AMERICA’S KEY SHOW CONFIRMS TREND SET BY EFTTEX
A new level in ice fishing jackets
US company Frabill raises the bar with new Stormsuit p36
Leeda secures end tackle deal
How it plans to assimilate PB Products into its portfolio p22
Plastica Panaro hits Australia
Exclusive interview with its new distributor p17
PLUS
EFTTEX BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARDS 16-PAGE SPECIAL
SHOW EXCLUSIVE: Details and descriptions of every entry in every category. Essential reading for buyers. See page 57
JULY 2010
Welcome, Bienvenue, Bienvenida Willkommen, Benvenuto...
I
s there a more exciting time than this for the angling industry? I don’t think so. Companies around the world have been working away for months and sometimes years on new ideas and products and are now on the point of revealing the fruits of their labours at the big summer shows – EFTTEX and ICAST. Fly fishing manufacturers will also be targeting the new IFTD show in Denver in September. I’ve already heard of lots of new innovations that will be introduced on the floors of the exhibition halls for the first time over the next few weeks and months – and while a lot of those may disappointingly
be variations on the same theme, there are sure to be some real gems among them. Hardy & Greys new SINTRIX technology looks to be one such breakthrough (see p6-7) and although the finished rods won’t be available in Valencia we are certainly going to hear a lot more about that in the future. Lots more new ideas are poised to have the covers taken off them and the time for dealers and distributors to get these products into their hands is here. There’s an air of real expectation – a mood captured by our special EFTTEX Best New Product Awards listing starting on page 57 of this issue. More than 150 products have been entered (surely
a record?) and every single one is covered in our exclusive preview of a part of the show that appears to be more and more important to exhibitors. As official sponsor of the awards, Angling International is pleased to be able to contribute towards raising its profile. Angling International will be in Valencia, Las Vegas and Denver and we look forward to seeing you there. So let’s get the shows on the road - I can’t wait!
Mel Bagnall mel@angling-international.com
MAGAZINE CREDITS Angling International magazine is published by Top Corner Editorial and Design Limited. 4 Milnyard Square, Bakewell Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom, PE2 6GX • International Commercial Director: Lucie Henton ; lucie@angling-international.com; Tel. +44 7825 999230; Fax +44 1225 760249; Skype lpetrickova • Publishing editor: Mel Bagnall; mel@angling-international.com +44 (0)1733 392 977 • Editorial director: Rob Carter; rob@topcornered.co.uk • Art Director: Keely Docherty-Lee; keely@topcornered.co.uk • Designer: Kate Hooley; katehooley@atgraphicsuk.com • Database Manager: Graham Goor; grahamgoor@atgraphicsuk.com • International Ambassador: Caroline Thomas; caroline4u.thomas@virgin.net +44 (0)7952 555716 • Colour reproduction: AT Graphics UK Ltd, Peterborough, Cambs UK • Printed by: Warners Midlands plc, Bourne, Cambs UK • Subscription enquiries: enquiries@angling-international.com
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•THANKS THIS ISSUE GO TO: Kate Armano, Marco Beccati, Lucy Bowden, Ken Brewster, Kelly Brockpahler, Bruno Broughton, Nic Brown, Angela Coe, Ryan Colaianni, Tony Conte, Milja Findlay, Graham Goor, Daniel Hansens, Kate Hooley, Liza Jones, Christine Ma, Karina Miller, Steve Peterson, Ginny Poehling, Linda Saunders, James Tipping, Ginger Vaughan, Noel Vick. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. The magazine assumes no responsibility for the safety of contributions, although all reasonable care will be taken.
July 2010 Angling International
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COMMUNIQUÉ HARDY ANNOUNCES A ROD REVOLUTION! I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
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ardy & Greys has announced what it believes to be the biggest development in fishing rod design for 25 years. And it is backing it with its biggest ever investment. If the new technology developed by the UK company is as good as it believes – and the tests are difficult to argue with – results will be on a similar scale to the transition from glass fibre to carbon. The excitement is around a new material called SINTRIX™, which can be used to create rods that are 60% stronger, up to 30% lighter and with dramatically improved impact resistance over conventional carbon fibre. SINTRIX is unique to Hardy & Greys and is supplied exclusively by a technology partner. Initially the new technology will be used in three Hardy fly rod ranges available from January 2011. There will be one saltwater range and two freshwater, which will include double-handed
Right: Despite being tested numerous times before, this SINTRIX rod takes everything Hardy & Greys’ state-of-the art machine can throw at it.
Below: Field testing accounted for some huge fish. But despite their best efforts, the testers did not break a single rod.
models. It will later be transferred to its carp, coarse and sea ranges within the Greys and Chub brands. The company estimates that within five years up to 70% of all its rod production will be using SINTRIX. Hardy & Greys will introduce SINTRIX to the industry at EFTTEX and will have fully-cosmetic production models ready for
the ANSPO show in Germany and the IFTD show in Denver, both in September. Early SINTRIX rods have been subjected to what Hardy & Greys consultant Howard Croston described as “unreasonable testing” in the Florida Keys, where huge dolphin, bonito, tarpon and even a 225lb hammerhead shark were boated on SINTRIX fly rods.
JUST WHY IS SINTRIX SPECIAL? Chris Bond, Head of Hardy Composites, explained that while carbon rods have advanced, the trend for lighter, faster blanks can make them brittle and prone to break under compression. As the modulus becomes stiffer it becomes less strong. The carbon in any blank is supported by a bed of resin or matrix which holds the fibres in parallel alignment, so that as the rod bends the fibres can flex and return into position. However, if it is suddenly bent beyond its limits normal
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Angling International July 2010
resins are unable to support the fibres adequately and the result is catastrophic failure. The rod breaks! These failures occur because typical rod resins do not contain enough toughening mechanisms to give the fibres sufficient protection. SINTRIX is an enhanced fortified matrix resin which supports and bolsters the carbon fibres to withstand a far higher degree of bending and loading than ever before. Hardy & Greys technology allows specially treated silica nano spheres to
“As well as experts, we used novices to test the rods and they made all the classic mistakes,” explained Croston. “But we haven’t broken a single rod in the field. We have subjected these rods to more and tougher testing than any other rod we have produced.” Films from the Florida field testing were shown at the recent media launch and the audience was
astounded by the incredible levels to which the rods were subjected. Inhouse testing was equally impressive. Despite the investment in technology, field testing and the highest quality fittings, Hardy & Greys insists the new rods will not be priced out of reach of consumers and that prices will be comparable to other premium fly rod ranges.
RICHARD SANDERSON Hardy and Greys is determined to protect the huge competitive gain it believes SINTRIX will create. “We were in at the beginning of carbon fibre but the mistake we made was to allow competitors to take the technology and the world changed,” recalled Managing Director Richard Sanderson. “We won’t make that mistake again. We won’t allow it to become generic. Others will follow us but they won’t have SINTRIX. Competitors will make claims but they will take forever to get close to this. The SINTRIX formulation is unique to us. “As a marketeer, you might be handed something this special once
in a lifetime. In my previous career I have been fortunate enough to be involved with the Workmate and the Barbie doll, which sold millions of units annually. I would put this on a par with those groundbreaking innovations. “Nothing close to this has existed since Richard Walker and Jim Hardy worked on those first carbon fibre rods. We are going to put everything behind this in an effort to capture serious market share. These won’t be rods that people can’t afford. “The industry needed a stepchange and this is it. All the industry has ever seen is a 3-5% improvement but this will be on a whole new level. It will quickly become the industry standard. “Without question this is the biggest investment we’ve ever made, and includes a huge marketing spend.”
Right: Unbelievable! Howard ard Croston breaks all the rules es – but can’t break the rod.
be evenly blended into to a SINTRIX resin, surrounding every carbonn fibre and resulting in unparalleled smooth casting actions. This technology is radicallyy different to previous nano rods using titanium nano or carbon bo nano tubes, ub technologies ch logi which hich simply impl attemptedd to reinforce the carbon and not the all-important resin. The bending strength of SINTRIX is vastly improved over common, outdated designs. By understanding why carbon fails, Hardy & Greys has engineered a solution with hugely improved impact resistance yet less weight. It has taken the shackles off rod making, says Bond.
July 2010 Angling International
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COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
Fetha Styx to unveil exclusive NASCAR rod range at ICAST
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S rod manufacturer Fetha Styx has partnered with the auto racing industry to release a new line of exclusively licensed NASCAR Signature rods which will make their debut at ICAST 2010. The new series will include rods for salt and freshwater and will feature popular drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr, Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon and Danica Patrick, with each rod designed with the driver’s colours, signature and NASCAR logo. “Some may wonder about the connection between fishing and auto racing,” said Fetha Styx CEO Bill Boyce. “The truth is that fishing is the number one outdoor activity among NASCAR fans. Statistically that means an impressive 33% of all NASCAR fans, or 25 million individuals, count fishing as a regular hobby. “This new series is the only fishing rod line on the market licensed to work with NASCAR. This is the perfect time to bring both sports together and engage
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Angling International July 2010
a wider audience in a new way.” In addition to bringing together two of America’s favourite sports, the partnership will also donate a portion of the proceeds from each rod sold to the driver’s individual charity or a NASCAR charity. Like all Fetha Styx rods, the new products have been crafted through extensive on-the-water research, expert advice and customer feedback. ICAST attendees will be able to see and experience the feel of the rods on booth 434.
Right: Fetha Styx CEO Bill Boyce (right) at last year’s ICAST. He will be introducing the new NASCAR range at this year’s show.
COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
Rapala honoured for world record haul
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he International Game Fishing Association (IGFA) has recognised the fact that Rapala lures have caught more IGFA world records than any other lures by honouring the Finnish company with its prestigious 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award. It has also established a Rapala hall of fame at its Florida headquarters. It is the first time a lure manufacturer has received the award. In bestowing the accolade on one of the world’s best-known sportfishing manufacturers, IGFA highlighted the fact that Rapala has accounted for record catches on every continent except Antarctica. At the ceremony in Florida, Rapala was placed first for lures, with 29 new world records caught in 2009; second for scales, 47 new world records being weighed on Rapala scales; and third for line, with ten new world records caught on Sufix lines, owned by Rapala since 2008.
On receiving the award, Rapala USA President Tom Mackin said that it was a privilege to be recognised by IGFA. Jorma Kasslin, CEO of Rapala, added: “These world records are excellent feedback, demonstrating that our products work well worldwide even in
Record breaker: the X-Rap Jointed Shad accounted for a 48lb rainbow trout in 2009.
tough circumstances. This is what we target both in our product development and manufacturing.” With a total of 840 world-record catches, Rapala holds the number one position – 550 for groupbranded lures, 260 for Sufix lines and more than 20 for VMC hooks – an achievement that has led to IGFA establishing the Rapala hall of fame. Founded by Lauri Rapala in 1936, the company has grown from humble beginnings to establish itself as market leader in several product categories, delivering its products to more than 130 countries. Rapala at the IGFA awards ceremony (from left): Mark Fisher, Rapala Director of Field Promotions, Tom Mackin, President of Rapala USA, Rick Murphy, Rapala pro angler and Rob Kramer, President of IGFA.
Aquaz appoints Zep Sport for France and the UK Aqua Sports, the leading OEM manufacturer of waders and clothing under its Aquaz brand, has appointed Zep Sport International as distributor in France and the UK.
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Angling International July 2010
The move is part of the Korea-based company’s expansion plan into territories that it believes hold significant growth potential for its products. Zep Sport International is the distribution arm of Rivercraft, a new distributor supplying its own and other established brands to European markets (see full story page 15). The two companies met when Aqua Sports exhibited at the China Fish show in Beijing earlier this year. “I was immediately impressed with the quality of Aquaz products, which I believe will be very well received in both the UK and France,” said Zep Sports Managing Director Stephan Szczepaniak.
Aqua Sports Managing Director, Brandon Hwang, told Angling International that the new partnership would reinforce his company’s position in Europe, which he believes will be further strengthened by further deals at EFTTEX in June (stand number H20). Angling International believes that Aqua Sports is also targeting Japan and North and South America for new distribution deals and it confident that it can meet demands for both quality and volume from its factories in China and Korea. Further information from aquaz@aquaz.co.kr or by visiting www.aquazfishing.com
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COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
European brands intensify race to dominate US carp market
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uropean brands are beginning to jostle for position in the emerging US carp market, a sector that could feasibly be worth up to ten million dollars within three years. Hardy North America, the US subsidiary of Hardy & Greys, is making a sustained push into the category and is backing its efforts with recruitment activity. “We have been very surprised by the sustained sales of Greys and Chub tackle here in the States,” said Hardy North America President Jim Murphy. “Although the market is, at my guess, worth about five million in annual sales nationwide, sales growth puts carp at the top of the market. “We fully intend to lead the market with the depth of our Greys and Chub products and in partnership with the vanguard of anglers and retailers convinced of the market potential.” Hardy North America’s efforts to secure a significant share of the growing carp market in the US has gathered pace with the appointment of top-ranked professional carp anglers Chris and Paul Jackson to the Greys-Chub pro staff. Their recruitment comes soon after the appointment of John Matt Latzo as National Sales Manager of the company’s carp division and it is clear the subsidiary is taking the sector very seriously. “It was never our intention to focus on carp fishing but we simply can’t ignore it,” said Murphy. “Chris and Paul are the most professional carp anglers in the US and will help us develop what might be the fastest growing tackle market in the US and to become the market leaders in the US carp market. We are making a major push into this emerging sector.” Pure Fishing, with major operations in both the US and Europe, is another company keeping a watchful eye on the growth of carp fishing in the US. The world’s biggest manufacturer of fishing tackle talked in last month’s Angling International of its “major mission” to grow share in the carp market and announced the launch of its new Gulp! Carp brand into Europe and the expansion of its JRC carp tackle range. Though headquartered in the US, the company’s carp expertise lies with its business in Europe, from where Products and Marketing Director Pascal Grillot has been monitoring the situation. “Of course carp fishing is going to be very 12
Above (from top): Jim Murphy, Pascal Grillot and Simon Pomeroy.
Angling International July 2010
big in America. There is no debate about that and, for sure, Pure Fishing is interested in being a part of that,” said Grillot. “Carp are perceived differently in America and it may be that Pure Fishing Europe has to make a convincing argument about why we should take this seriously. “We are investigating different ways to enter the carp business there and considering the risk of investment against the opportunity. I believe we have to be in a position to take advantage of the growth. I am convinced it is going to happen and when it does we don’t want to be second or third.” Leading bait company Dynamite already sponsors some of the top carp anglers in the US and is actively advertising its products in the main carp magazines there. Marketing and Media Manager Steve Cole explained that the focus is now on widening the appeal. “The market will stay small unless we work at promotion through the vast array of magazines and TV channels,” he told Angling International. “What can it become? A single state can be as big as the UK – the sky’s the limit. “With the huge numbers of carp and freeto-fish waters we are confident the carp scene will be massive. The problem is educating anglers that carp are not the vermin many anglers think they are but can provide terrific sport. We have a great chance to help build a significant market.” Cole sees an increasing demand for boilies among US carp anglers, with the high protein food source helping create bigger and bigger fish. “Anglers will toy with particles and
groundbaits but I see boilies as being the main seller.” Another company looking seriously at the developing US carp market is Leeda, manufacturer of the Wychwood Carp brand. “It’s definitely got a lot of potential and we are very interested in finding a distributor,” revealed Managing Director Richard Taylor. “In certain areas I can see it working very well, but less so in other places. Hopefully the US will look to the UK and Europe for its fishing styles and products.” However, Simon Pomeroy, MD of Pallatrax, has spent time analysing the US market and exhibited at ICAST in 2008 and believes that excitement is premature. “The market is still very fragmented and the knowledge levels are low,” said Pomeroy, whose core products are the new Naturals baits range and Stonze environmentally-friendly fishing weights. “When I was going around the tackle shops, a lot of them didn’t know the styles and terminal rigs common in Europe. “A lot of the European companies have taken a good look at the US carp market but feel it is still not big enough. It can only get bigger because the species is everywhere. But the attitude to carp needs to change for it to become attractive commercially. Currently they are seen as damaging to rivers and lakes. If it does take off it will be great for European manufacturers and especially for the UK brands, which still lead the market.” Pomeroy also believes the money invested in the bass market and its importance to the industry will also be an obstacle to the growth of the carp sector.
COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
New online shop will target younger anglers A new online fishing tackle retailer and distributor has been launched to supply the UK and Europe, with a focus on the fly fishing, spinning and baitcasting markets. Rivercraft will market its own-brand products as well as introducing new, quality brands to the European market. It has already secured a deal to distribute clothing Rivercraft MD Stephan and footwear products for reputable Szczepaniak: “We Korean manufacturer Aquaz. are aiming at keen internet users.” Managing Director Stephan Szczepaniak, an accountant by profession but with 35 years of fishing experience, has established offices near London and Paris and is targeting the high-end quality market at “attractive prices”. Szczepaniak told Angling International that he would initially concentrate on the e-commerce side of the business while rolling out through retail channels during the year. He explained: “The e-commerce business will target the younger end of the market, people who spend a lot of time on the internet and consider it the best place to find the choice and price they are looking for and who spend time on blogs discussing products. The retail operation will target the more traditional part of the market, fishermen who are not heavy users of the internet and who like to visit a shop and talk to the tackle dealer. “Pricing is going to be key. Offering quality products at affordable prices is at the heart of our business strategy.” Much of Rivercraft’s range will be aimed at anglers on both sides of the Channel, but the company will also offer specialist product for different territories. “Lure fishing and street fishing are very popular in France at the moment. So we want to stay ahead of the latest trends and provide the right tackle to support them,” added Szczepaniak.
Some of the Rivercraft products. “It’s quality at affordable prices.”
“With extensive sportfishing experience across the Continent, I’ve seen a number of products which are not available Europe-wide. So I plan to open up the market by bringing new and intelligent products to customers who share a common passion for angling and deserve the widest and best choice of gear.” Rivercraft plans to expand its sales reach and its range of products in the future. Rivercraft and other brand partners are distributed by Zep Sport International. For further information contact stephan@zepsport.com or visit www.rivercraft.com or www.rivercraft.com.fr
Australian retailers spread the word Retailers in Western Australia are playing a key role in spreading fisheries information and updates on regulations to recreational anglers. The government’s Department of Fisheries has installed around 50 fisheries information display stands in major retail businesses in the state. The move follows consultation between the tackle industry, Recfishwest and fisheries representatives that identified an opportunity to improve the distribution of recreational fishing guides, education brochures and other regional information through local tackle shops and businesses. “It stands to reason the first place recreational fishers go
for good, up-to-date information is the local tackle shop,” said a spokesman for Recfishwest. “The new information stands will maximise the communication and education provided by tackle stores in promoting a responsible fishing message direct to the fishing public.” Anglers can pick up a copy of the latest recreational fishing rules and regulations or even a new fish measuring stick. They can also purchase the compulsory release weights and pick up a free DVD on how to use them. Staff will answer questions and can help anglers apply for their new Fishing from Boat licence over the internet.
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Angling International July 2010
COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
Plastica Panaro heads to Australia
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ell-known tackle box manufacturer Plastica Panaro is to distribute its range throughout Australia following an exclusive agreement with Platinum Marine. The Italian company has finalised the deal after an initial meeting at China Fish in February and will be supplying its new partner with a full range of products. Platinum will also be showing Plastica Panaro boxes on its booth at the Australian Fishing Tackle (AFTA) Show in October. “We will be focusing on the complete market there as Platinum supply the whole of Australia,” explained Export Director Lucio Sirotti, who is planning to attend the AFTA Show personally. “We will be making pretty much our full range available as we aim to strongly establish the Panaro brand in Australia. To do this we need to be able to offer a comprehensive choice of fishing tackle boxes.” Platinum Marine, a wholesale-only company, was established by a group of fishing and boating enthusiasts in 2003 and all its staff has experience of working in the retail sector, a fact it believes provides an important edge in customer service, value and product performance. It is based in Melbourne, Victoria, from where it is growing its wholesale interests throughout Oceania and Asia. “Australia is a vast country with extremes in fishing,” said Platinum Marine’s Chris Cromie. “The Panaro range has the diversity to satisfy all fishing conditions from freshwater fly to big game. The pricing and quality, along with the prestige of being a European-made product, will offer good return on margins for retailers and value for money for consumers.” Cromie confirmed that the official launch will be at the AFTA Show on the Gold Coast, giving attending retailers the opportunity to view and buy the entire range for the first time. “Innovative design and quality are at the forefront of successful products in this market, with delivery also
key to keeping the retailer happy,” added Cromie. “Being in Melbourne, we can achieve great delivery times.” imes.” For further informarmation contact Chris is Cromie at ccromie@ mie@ platinumparts.com.au m.au It promises to be a busy and excitingg year for Plastica Panaro, o, which TEX to plans to use EFTTEX rebrand its fishingg boxes. The company makes plastic mber of different boxes for a number industries but will now differentiate its fishing tackle products under the new name ‘Panaro’. The firm will unveil a new selection of Panaro products in Valencia , including two boxes incorporating an innovative compartment concept and a selection of soft fishing bags. Sirotti expects to come away from Valencia with a number of new accounts. “The market has improved recently and more manufacturers are using shows to generate new business,” he added.
Above: the Italian seat boxes will be displayed at the AFTA Show. Below: Chris Cromie of Platinum Marine, the Melbourne-based wholesalers bringing Plastica Panaro products to Australia.
Alfafara boosts Shimano in Latin America Elmer Alfafara has rejoined Shimano American Corporation as Latin America Territory Manager. His appointment is part of Shimano’s strategy to expand its sales and marketing operation for fishing tackle in both North and South America. Alfafara previously worked for the company on quality control and product development in the Nineties before joining the Boeing Company in 2000. He will now head up Shimano’s sales, technical and dealer support staff dedi-
cated to servicing its business throughout Latin America. Carey Graves, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager for Shimano’s tackle division, said: “Elmer brings a great deal to his new position as he is already familiar with our products and has used them in many fresh and saltwater situations. His engineering and technology background will be our gain and his international experience is ideal for his role with our Latin American operations and customers.”
COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
Colt targets ICAST in next big push
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he first true rod design advancement in over four decades – that is how the Colt Rod Company is describing the rod range it plans to reveal at this year’s ICAST. The new manufacturer, headquartered in the US, describes its Hextreme technology as revolutionary and has invested millions of dollars in extensive research and development over the past 15 years. “We’re here to change the game,” says Peter Lombardi, CEO of Colt. “There’s a lot of hype in the industry, with companies boasting of revolutionary breakthroughs in technology, but we’re the only ones who have really done it. “Our rods offer a level of performance and durability never achieved before. Not only are they the most sensitive and accurate of any fishing rod in
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the world, but our hexagonal rod design also incorporates an internal I-BEAM framework that makes them virtually indestructible. “Gone are the days of sacrificing performace for durability. So confident are we that they are backed by our Colt Unlimited Lifetime Warranty.” Angling International exclsuively broke the news of the new technology last year. The Colt rods can be found on booth 533 at ICAST. For further information contact Ginger Vaughan ginger@quinnbrein.com or visit the website at www.coltrods.com
Angling International July 2010
The hexagonal rod design. “We’re here to change the game,” says Colt.
Sébile delighted by US media exposure
International lure brand Sébile appears to be setting some kind of record for the number of magazine front covers it can appear on in one year. CEO Patrick Sébile has recently featured on the cover of South Carolina Sportsman, making it the company’s fifth cover in five months! “We are very appreciative of the welcome we are receiving from the media as well as from anglers, it is unbelievable,” said Sébile, who can be seen exhibiting at both EFTTEX and ICAST this summer. Sébile also recently appeared with his European and Russia Sales Manager Laurent Picq on the cover of Russian publication Spinning Traveller.
UK’sNationalFishing Monthwinssupport
Organisers of National Fishing Month (NFM) in the UK report a “fabulous response” from businesses eager to support the new initiative. Companies including Maver, Shimano, Daiwa, Tri Cast, Masterline, Leeda, Hopkins and Holloway and Dynamite Baits have pledged over £20,000 worth of product and giveaways. Veals Mail Order and Stapeley Angling Centre have also donated tackle vouchers towards a national prize draw for coaches and regional organisers. NFM is designed to promote participation in fishing and takes place from July 17th to August 15th. Further information is available at www.nationalfishingmonth.com
EUROPEAN FISHING TACKLE TRADE EXHIBITION 17th – 19th June 2011 Amsterdam RAI, Netherlands
Join the GREATEST GATHERING IN EUROPE of the international fishing tackle trade
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COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
Leeda adds ‘the perfect end tackle range’ to its portfolio
L
eeda, the parent company behind international brands Wychwood and MAP, has added PB Products to its distribution portfolio. The Redditch, UK-based tackle firm has become exclusive distributor of the Dutch company’s ‘Most Wanted’ range of carp terminal tackle. Leeda, which also distributes brands including Mustad, Maxima, Amnesia, MEPPS and Scientific Anglers, say the addition of PB Products gives them coverage of the entire market. PB Products is the brainchild of well-known European anglers Koen Koops and Ronny De Groote, while other top big fish specialists including Frank Warwick, Piet Vogel and Wychwood consultant Tim Wagner are in the PB team. The company produced the original Jelly-Wire hook link and now offers a comprehensive range that has a
strong following across Europe and the UK. “Retailers throughout the UK, Europe and the world know that Leeda provides a range of products and brands offering everything a store needs, but we were still looking for the perfect end tackle range,” explained Leeda Managing Director Richard Taylor. “I am confident we have found that with PB Products. “Not only does it fit in well with our ethos of development through innovation, but most importantly the range looks fantastic, sells brilliantly and is incredibly reliable. It won’t let the angler down.” Leeda Marketing Manager Nic Brown also emphasised that the Most Wanted range forms one unit and is “absolutely not” a collection of individual products.
Fox targets US predator market Fox International is to exhibit at the ICAST show in America for the first time this year – but it won’t be taking the carp fishing rods and tackle for which it is legendary. Instead, it plans to use the huge Las Vegas event to showcase its recently launched Rage predator brand and Fox sportfishing brands to the US market. UK and European companies appear to be lining up ready to take advantage of the growing US carp market (see story page 12) but Fox believes it has identified a better opportunity to grow its business in America. “This is our first toe in the water at ICAST and we believe the products we are showcasing are ideally suited for the American market,” said Ian Welch, the recently-appointed Head of Media and Publicity for Fox International. “We believe the US market will be very interested in what we have to offer. This is very much how we see it and are very focused on these sectors of the market there.”
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As with its other brands, Leeda will support stockists through its B2B website, where full product descriptions, codes and PDF images are available online to make uploading the range on to the retailer’s online stocks and catalogue quick and easy. For further information please call 01527 587450, email customer. service@leeda.co.uk or visit www.leeda.co.uk
Left: Jelly-Wire – part of the PB Products range.
HI-SEAS SPONSORS MAJOR US TV SHOW
Hi-Seas and American Fishing Wire have become the exclusive line and wire sponsors of US television show host and fishing celebrityBillDance.Themanufactureroflines,leadersandrigging products believes its sponsorship of Bill Dance Outdoors, shown five times weekly on the Versus Channel, and Bill Dance Saltwater, screened three times weekly on the Outdoor Channel, will help educate anglers about Hi-Seas and reinforce the brand name in both the freshwater and saltwater markets. The shows’ primetime platform will expose Hi-Seas’ products to more than 20 million households. Bill Dance in front of the camera.
Ian Welch: “We believe we have the ideal products for the US.”
Angling International July 2010
July 2010 Angling International
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Angling International July 2010
COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S
Diversification pays off for eyewear brand
F
lying Fisherman, the international polarised eyewear brand, is finding that astute product diversification built around affordably priced angling products is paying big dividends in the form of its new Native Angler Collection. Recognising an opportunity to leverage its powerful reputation in the marketplace, the US company – known for its AcuTint lens colouring system – has been giving dealers and distributors access to not just quality eyewear but also game fishing T-shirts, hats, visors, eyewear lanyards and more, all available from one vendor. Vice-president Linda Sheldon explained: “Over the years our range of quality eyewear and customer service resulted in requests for other products with similar ‘keystone’ pricing. After considerable research, we decided to get into the casual T-shirt and headgear market. “Initial introductions of a limited number of garments featuring original
screen-printed fishing designs were well received and has led to the introduction of a full range of sport fishing tees and hats with upscale design concepts. “This was also the opportunity to develop a one-stop shopping model for dealers, built around affordably priced products for anglers.” Before polarised eyewear, Flying Fisherman produced sportfishing programmes for television and video, with the Flying Fisherman pro team fishing the world over. Some of the images captured then have inspired the Native Angler Collection of exclusive wearable art, which now comprises more than 50 gamefish designs. Meanwhile, new product development continues with the latest in a line of SunBandit UV head, neck and face protectors featuring “dynamic new designs”. These will be introduced at ICAST (Booth 1846) along with other new products including a range of polarised bifocal sunglasses. For further information, email info@flyingfisherman.com or visit www.flyingfisherman.com
Boost for retailers: Flying Fisherman’s multi-product merchandiser has wheels for easy placement in the dealership. July 2010 Angling International
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Powerline, Z.I Les Brunelleries, 49080 Bouchemaine l Tel (33) 02 4136 36 66 l Fax (33) 02 41 36 32 00 l Email stb@powerline.fr
2010 NEWS
“WE ARE VERY CONFIDENT WE WILL GET THE BUYERS TO VEGAS”
Numbers are up and lessons have been learnt from a successful 2009 show. So, with one month to go to ICAST, Anging International found ASA President Mike Nussman in optimistic mood. “We always pull out all the stops,” he says. Angling International: Last year’s ICAST in Orlando was a huge success and a tough act to follow. How will ICAST 2010 in Las Vegas measure up? Mike Nussman: It’s natural that if you do well in an event that you want to repeat that success. We always pull out all the stops to ensure our Mike Nussman: “The signs right now are looking good.” show is a success for our exhibitors and attendees, but we did get particularly creative last year, partly because we were concerned about having left Las Vegas for a venue we had not been to for ten years. We felt we needed to work a little harder to make the show successful. As a result of that, and the support we received from the industry, it was a good solid show of which we are very proud. I asked everyone to take that extra energy and apply it to the Las Vegas show. The quality of the event we put on is a result of the energy we bring to it. Las Vegas is a good venue with a proven track record, so we are very confident we’ll have a successful three
days. However, as I have said before, all we can do is set the stage. Once the show opens its doors, it is up to our exhibitors and attendees to make the show work for them. The signs right now are looking good. We are 31 companies and 29 booths ahead of the same time last year – which indicates we are going in the right direction. What is behind the improved response? In general terms, people can see the industry is moving in the right direction after a tough time. Confidence is starting to come back. The Dow Jones Index is two to three thousand points better than it was a year ago, which is a positive indicator. There is a level of confidence out there – more than there was a year ago – and we are seeing that in the ICAST bookings. The number of buyers is the ‘pulse’ of a trade show. What are your expectations with just weeks to go? Registration for this year’s show is looking very good in all categories. We consider last year’s show to be a big success in terms of the number of buyers in attendance. The Orlando location gave us the opportunity to showcase ICAST to buyers who had not been to the show in several years. From the comments we received in our post-show survey, we know a lot of those folks will be back with us this year. In terms of marketing and outreach, we try to leave no stone unturned in our efforts to invite buyers and media to the show. We learned a few things last year that we are taking back to Las Vegas. Employing some of the same principles we employed in Orlando gives us confidence we will get the buyers to Las Vegas.
Would you agree that ICAST has evolved from an order show to more of a networking show? We believe that ICAST is the best networking and business opportunity for the US fishing tackle industry. Business still revolves around face-to-face meetings. There’s no place like ICAST for connecting with industry leaders and build relationships with people from across the US and from around the globe. It is one of the things that ASA brings to our industry and something we believe we must deliver. The nature of how business is conducted at ICAST has become more complicated. Is the show the same as 30 years ago? Of course not. The show has evolved over time and means different things to different people. Our exhibitors span the spectrum from one or two 10x10 booths up to the very large booths on the show floor, but their basic need is the same – to do business in the industry. We aim to support all of them. Many exhibitors still write orders at the show and more than half offer ICAST-only show specials. Many write orders after the show, but in both cases the show is the catalyst for making that business happen. International attendance has more than doubled in recent years, although international exhibitors remain relatively low. Is the internationalisation of ICAST part of your strategy? Strong international partnerships with other trade associations are very important and we – and they – understand that globalisation is happening and that the world is becoming a smaller place. We all need to benefit from that fact. We work hard to
“People can see the industry is moving the right way after a tough time. There is a level of confidence out there and we are seeing that in the ICAST bookings.” 28
Angling International July 2010
bring international exhibitors and buyers to ICAST and we do a decent job, but there is always room for improvement and there always will be. In total, 63 countries were represented at ICAST 2009. We had 46 international exhibitors (around 12 per cent of the total). This year we are already at 62. So we are heading in the right direction and it remains one of our goals to become more of an international show. How will we do that? It’s a question of pitching to businesses for which it makes most sense to be at the show. We’ll do that through a whole range of marketing techniques including mailing, magazine articles, advertising and email communication. We’ll also continue to visit other international trade shows. ICAST Show Director Maria del Valle Hamilton and ASA’s Vice-president Gordon Robertson will both be at this year’s EFTTEX in Valencia to talk to people about ICAST. ICAST is a barometer for the industry. What messages do you think it will send out this year? It’s difficult to gaze into a crystal ball that you don’t have, but our exhibitor and attendee registration numbers are certainly evidence of more optimism – tempered with a little anxiety as well. In general I would say the industry is looking at the middle
ground in terms of trading outlook. Again, in general terms, business was slow in March but April was very strong. The key issue is the re-orders for summer. Companies have done a good job getting the inventory. The question now is will it sell through. This is happening right before ICAST so the outcome will influence the mood on the show floor. Hopefully the encouraging increase we have seen in fishing licence sales will continue and will contribute to sell-through. EFTTA CEO Jean-Claude Bel recently made an impassioned argument in the pages of Angling
International for the benefits of EFTTA membership, directing his comments at companies who have not joined. Is the ASA experiencing membership issues and, if so, how is it addressing them? There are very few trade associations that don’t constantly fight membership battles. Numbers can fall away in the good times and improve when people see a need for strong representation. We fight a lot of battles on behalf of the entire industry – manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers – but it is in retail where we tend to be a little weaker on numbers. ASA is ahead of last year, but below 2008, so we are looking to improve. At the moment, most associations regard flat numbers as the new ‘up’. We are better than flat right now. Although our Board of Directors is pleased with that, we know we need to work harder to engage more industry members in the association’s efforts. What arguments do you hear against joining? You can define the issues by the size of the organisation and the scale of its outlook. For instance, a retailer will look at issues that directly affect his business. Our message is that we are doing a whole array of things that do affect you. It might be in another region but it is going to come around and affect you at some stage. July 2010 Angling International 29
NEWS At last year’s ICAST, you urged the need for a long-term funding plan to support ASA’s advocacy initiative in protecting and enhancing fishery access. Where are you with this and the business plan necessary to address the industry’s needs? The KeepAmericaFishing™ brand was used primarily in California as a way to engage anglers in the state’s efforts to close off coastal areas to recreational fishing. We have hired a social branding and fundraising firm to assist us in the planning process to fund our efforts to keep public resources open for recreational fishing. You will hear more about that this year at ICAST. We have to grow our resources if we want to continue to actively engage in issues that are important to safeguarding recreational fishing. The ASA is fighting for recreational fishing on a number of fronts. Which issues are at the very top of your agenda? Ensuring that ICAST is a success for our member exhibitors and our attendees is always at the top of our list. It is the economic engine that helps to drive the industry and, with the show just a few weeks away, it certainly has our attention! We are of course very engaged supporting the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation in their efforts to increase participation in the sport. As far as Government Affairs is concerned, the Gulf of Mexico oil spill has everyone concerned. A bill containing measures to deal with the impact has been introduced in the US Congress. Although local tackle shops wouldn’t normally get recognised by the federal government in a situation like this, I am pleased to report that the White House has recognised the impact this oil leak will have on their businesses and is legislating for them to be able to make financial compensation claims. We view this as a very positive move by this administration. You have repeatedly said it is essential that ASA has a voice in debates relating to sportfishing before legislation is passed. Is this happening? We’ve been representing the industry’s interests for over 75 years, and I believe we have a very good track record of ensuring our members’ voices are heard when legislation comes up that will affect their business. Ensuring that our industry’s concerns are addressed as a result of the Gulf of Mexico oil leak disaster is high on our list.
WHY ARE YOU GOING TO ICAST? “ICAST is the biggest show for us and for the industry as a whole and this will be our tenth year there. It’s where we get to display our new products and it also gives us an opportunity to see the products we have helped other rod manufacturers to develop for their new lines. ICAST gives us a starting platform with our customer base for next season’s products. It is without comparison the largest show for the Batson team and family. We prefer it in Vegas due to our location in the Great North West, but wherever this show goes Batson will follow.”
Bill Batson, Batson Enterprises Inc. Booth number 1418
“ICAST represents a huge opportunity for the Fluoro-Clear InvisaSwivel and Knot2Kinky Nickel Titanium leader wire. The InvisaSwivel line has received several best new product awards from leading magazines yet many people have still not heard about it. Our purpose at the show is specifically to arrange distribution with the largest retailers and distributors both in North America and abroad. We prefer the Orlando location because it is closer for us.”
Keith Kessler, Aquateko Booth 2226
“We’re looking forward to another great ICAST show as Esca® products are really taking off in the US. This year we’ll be introducing our groundbreaking interchangeable lure. We’re also interested in entering into partnerships for the bundling of Esca® products with other lures. And there are always people who are keen to learn about our products and how we combine technology and Mother Nature’s power to create the world’s best fishing attractor.”
Morten Dale, Esca Global Booth 1655
“ICAST is an excellent opportunity to generate more business and meet bigger customers for our wide range of reels. We already export to 30 countries and the show is an opportunity to grow still further. I prefer Vegas as the location for the show. It is a very popular destination for sightseeing as well as for business. I believe that for some visitors the sightseeing is as important as the business, perhaps more.”
Sandy Qi, Cixi Boyang Booth 842 30
Angling International July 2010
“We go to Vegas looking for more US dealers and to present our new launches designed for the US market to the big buyers. We also hope to find dealers in Canada, Mexico and Central America. ICAST is perfect to introduce our new Hyperfluorocarbon 3Core and two crappie lines. Las Vegas is a great location with the ideal infrastructure, but I guess Orlando is better for those who want to go on fishing trips. Alternating the show each year between Orlando and Vegas is a great idea.”
Frédéric Parrier, Parallelium Booth 836
“ICAST will provide Ardent with the opportunity to showcase our Reel and Reel Care product lines to customers. The industry is recovering from the recession and buyers will be looking for new and innovative products. Ardent will be introducing the Fishouflage line of reels in Las Vegas. The Ardent Reel Care line will also be showcased and new SKUs introduced. Distributors, national account buyers and dealers are benefiting from this new category as consumers find the value in properly maintaining their reels. Las Vegas always attracts a large audience and I think the rotation that ASA has established with Orlando will serve the industry well.”
Michael J. Brooks, Ardent Booth 1246
“ICAST is the number one venue to connect faceto-face with our customers and to establish new business relationships. The show is very important to us and provides the best opportunity to introduce our new products to the international sportfishing community and the media. Las Vegas works very well, but in Orlando last year we were able to meet with first time attendees from the south east US and Caribbean, so alternating between east and west seems best.”
Linda Sheldon, Flying Fisherman Booth 1846
“Halco wants to show its American clients our new products for the upcoming year, find out about their future needs and trends and discuss with them where Halco is heading into the future. This communication is vital to our business. As one of the biggest tackle shows in the world, ICAST draws many non-American
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Angling International July 2010
NEWS distribution companies as well. This gives us the opportunity to show off our products and hopefully gain footholds into markets that we have not already accessed. We have a fantastic new lure to show them that we think is new and very innovative. Winning Best New Hard Lure would certainly be right up there on the wish list. Halco prefers the ‘Orlando one year, Las Vegas the next year’ option as it enables us to target both East Coast and West Coast dealers alternately and doesn’t let the show get stale at just the one venue.”
Tim Carter, Halco Tackle Booth 809
“This will be our largest booth ever at ICAST, representing Reaction Strike freshwater and saltwater lures and Castaic swimbaits and softbaits. By rotating between Vegas and Orlando, ICAST will become a more meaningful show. For our company, with brands in both the freshwater and saltwater sectors, this is the best of both worlds. “The Vegas show was becoming stale as many retailers do not continue to visit the same city year after year. New accounts are really the main revenue driver as new retailers come and go with frequency. The retailers that do not show up are the more established ones who get visits directly from the trade reps and distributors. They also tend not to jump into new items as fast as they feel that they know their customers’ needs better than the newer retailers. “We also hope to see more and more international distributors and retailers and from this perspective either city is great choice. We want these adventurous travellers to feel that the trip was well worth the investment. “While we always try to introduce new products at the ICAST show, we will continue to follow our business model which focuses on new product introductions every month.”
Kris Reibel, Trophy Technologies Booth 1934
“We are excited about the opportunity to launch a wide range of new items and category extensions. ICAST is the perfect place to present these items to both buyers and media at the same time. As far as the big debate about Vegas and Orlando, I feel the location does not matter as much as the preparation and attention to detail you invest prior to the show. If you present completed, top quality items that are priced right and marketed correctly you will be happy with the results.”
Chris Russell, Eagle Claw Fishing Tackle Booth 962
“Costa will announce its new 580P lens. Until now the Costa 580 lens has been available only in glass, but the new 580 is in an impact-resistant polycarbonate alternative. Our new sunglass, Jose, named after legendary angler Jose Wejebe and featuring the 580P lens, will be in the New Product Showcase.”
Chas MacDonald, Costa Del Mar Booth 440
“We are expecting visitors this year to be a bit more positive about the economy. We know that many buyers are looking at keeping their listings at status quo by going with proven winners but they are also interested to see new products. We had a great new products launch last year with the TG76BLN Kevin Van Dam treble and we have a new KVD soft plastics hook we will be showing this year. Vegas always draws a bigger crowd but we have a lot of customers in the Florida market that like Orlando and don’t venture out to Nevada. People like the show in their local area.”
Ed Galka, General Manager, O. Mustad & Son USA Inc. Booth 93
“ICAST is crucial for our company as we use it to introduce new products and see our broad customer base at one convenient location. We also use the show to offer our new programmes and prices for the next season. Typically, we see a very good West Coast turn-out when the show is located in Las Vegas. Vegas and Orlando are great locations but given the preference, we would like to see the show alternate between several cities throughout the US. Perhaps moving the show on a seven-year rotation in seven different cities would help to entice more dealers and distributors on a regional basis… dealers and distributors that we may not normally see at either Orlando or Vegas. The following cities may be good options: Vegas, Orlando, Atlantic City, Long Beach, Houston, Minneapolis and Seattle. These cities would certainly be able to accommodate the size of the show and also offer enough activities, lodging and dining opportunities to satisfy the needs of both exhibitors and attendees.”
Rex Nelson, Western Filament Booth 1619
The Angling International team will be visiting ICAST 2010.
To arrange a meeting please call Lucie Henton on +44 7825 999230 Skype: lpetrickova lucie@angling-international.com July 2010 Angling International
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Angling International July 2010
NEWS
I
CAST, considered by many to be the world’s biggest sportfishing trade show, returns to Las Vegas in July amid an air of quiet expectation and guarded optimism. In an exclusive interview elsewhere in this issue, Mike Nussman, President and CEO of the American Sportortfishing Association (ASA), the show’s organisers, talks of returning confidence and positive signs of the industry moving in the right direction. And certainly the pre-show statistics look enncouraging. Last year’s move ove to Orlando was widely acclaimed imed as a huge success and the 7,400 ,400 visitors, including 2,300 buyers, plus representation from 63 countries, looked a hard act to follow. However, as this issue of Angling International went to press, ASA was reporting 31 companies and 29 booths ahead of last year, and the guarantee of more international exhibitors than in Orlando. As Mike Nussman also points out, it takes the exhibitors and buyers to make a show work, but industry response certainly suggests the scene is set for a business-driven three days in America’s gambling capital. As usual, Angling International will be there, and here we select some of the highlights you may not want to miss.
SEMINARS Wednesday, July 14th – Friday, July 16th A range ng of free seminars dealing with current-day issues for exhibitors and attendees will be held in room N260 of the La Las Vegas Convention Center. This year’s focus is on recreational fishing access and the Keep America Fishing advocacy campaign; an update up on the federal manufacturers excise tax by IRS representatives; and a special seminar se regarding the threats to recreational fishing. fish For retailers there are also seminars on how to incorporate social media into business busi plans and how to think beyond ‘pink’ when marketing to women and families. For the full sche schedule of available seminars, and further detail on content, co check the website.
IIGCHALIGSHTTS H 2010
INDUSTRY AWARDS RECEPTION Wednesday, July 14th, 6-7.30pm It’s standing room only as the industry throngs to the Las Vegas Hilton Ballroom in anticipation of winning one of the coveted new product awards. The evening is sponsored by Zebco Brands and hosted by ASA Board Chairman and Zebco Brands President Jeff Pontius. The awards will be presented by Pontius and ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman.
ICAST SPECIALS Significant product discounts offer buyers strong incentives throughout the duration of the show. In 2009, almost half of all ICAST exhibitors offered money-saving show specials. Deals to be found on the show floor include discounts on specific product lines, two-for-one offers, special payment terms, graduated discounts, market value discounts and more. Reelin’ & Dealin’ – a Guide to ICAST-only Specials – lists all exhibitors offering show specials and is mailed in advance to pre-registered buyers and distributed to buyers throughout the show. A list can also be found on the ICAST website.
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Tuesday/Wednesday, July 13th and 14th Considered by the organisers – as well as many exhibitors and visitors – to be the single most important feature of the show, the New Product Showcase can be a huge commercial boost for the winners. Hundreds of next season’s innovations in fishing tackle and accessories are entered in the showcase with only registered buyers and the media editorial badge holders eligible to vote. As of last year, exhibitors are denied access to the new product area during the voting period, removing any possibility of lobbying. The new product voting period has been extended by two hours this year, beginning at 5.30pm Tuesday evening and ending at 3pm on Wednesday. Voting is in 17 categories with an overall ‘Best in Show’ winner.
INDUSTRY BREAKFAST Wednesday, July 14th, 7.30-8.45am Interesting, engaging, revealing – ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman and Zebco Brands President Jeff Pontius will present on the current state of the industry to a packed gathering of the trade just prior to the show floor being declared open. This year, the agenda includes the launch of the ASA’s Keep America Fishing advocacy campaign. This sell-out event is ticket only, available to purchase online at www.ICASTfishing.org July 2010 Angling International
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SPECIAL FE ATURE
zCOMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT...
Frabill’s designers takes ice fishing suits to a new level
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ny angler will testify that being cold or wet out in the field is no fun. So when US company Frabill decided to add fishing apparel to its prestigious portfolio, acute attention to Chris Leonard: “It was detail was top of its agenda. The tough, but the angler company’s shining credentials as is the winner.” the specialist makers of leading ice fishing equipment clearly stood it in good stead. But Frabill also knew that it needed the very best expertise to create the type of leading-edge products to which it aspired. Cue Chris Leonard. Leonard was the owner and founder of SnoSuit Winterwear, a clothing company with a reputation for its premium line of ice fishing outerwear. When Frabill acquired SnoSuit Winterwear in May 2009, Leonard became engineering consultant and the scene was set for Frabill Extreme Elements (FXE), an outdoor clothing brand the company is confident will raise the bar in the category. FXE is announcing its arrival in the market with the FXE Stormsuit, a jacket and bib for ice fishing that will make its bow at ICAST in July, while the insulated FXE SnoSuit is a new release for the autumn. “This is a really big push for us,” says Leonard. “The investment this company is making in the engineering, creative process and pro staff involvement is nothing short of industry-leading. “Regardless of the product, Frabill’s philosophy is the same. This is a fishing company making fishing-specific items. We don’t stray from that.” Leonard emphasises that seeking input from a wide variety of experts in the field has made a significant contribution to the “extraordinary results” achieved. Al Lindner, legendary angler, co-creator of In Fisherman and host of TV show Lindner’s Angling Edge, is among those who have provided invaluable feedback and will be principle spokesman and product endorser for the Stormsuit. “Al has been very instrumental in the development process,” explained Leonard. “This enabled me to focus on key areas other companies have overlooked and a lot of unique features are a result of his input. “It’s been a painstaking process. The suit has evolved well past industry standards and the consumer will be the beneficiary.”
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CHRIS LEONARD ON WHY THE STORMSUIT IS ‘BEST IN CLASS’ ● The uncompromising waterproof but breathable Teflon fabric protects the wearer not just from the elements but from oil and fish slime. These cannot penetrate and simply rinse off. ● The two key areas of wear – knees and pant cuffs – are reinforced with rugged 500 denier material, while 3mm Neoprene padding has also been added in the knees. The pant cuffs are also adjustable to exclude the cold wind or leave open to shelter footwear. ● The cam buckle used in the design of the bib makes it easy to get on and off, while the bunker gear style of design lent from firefighting uniforms prevents the shoulder straps from sliding off. ● The sunglasses protector pocket has been positioned where it cannot be crushed, capturing the attention to detail evident throughout the design. Inside is a chamois towel for cleaning. ● A fully elasticated waist adjuster allows some of the weight to be taken on the hips as well as the shoulders, an idea garnered from the hiking market.
?
Want to talk to Frabill? Here’s how to find them...
VP of Marketing Jeff Kolodzinski Tel: +1 262 677 4740 ext 147 Mobile: +1 262 707 0852 Email: jkolodzinski@frabill.com Web: www.frabill.com
WHAT HAS LEEDA ADDED TO THE TRUEFLY RANGE? See overleaf
ADVERTISING FEATURE
COMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT...
LEEDA TARGETS NEW TERRITORIES FOR WYCHWOOD GAME, SPECIMEN AND MAP
After major success at EFTTEX 2009 and buoyed by healthy sales figures, UK company Leeda is driving forward with ambitious plans for its leading brands. Here it reveals the new products that will define its future business.
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eeda, owner of world-known brands including MAP and Wychwood, arrived at EFTTEX this month in buoyant mood. The UK-based business reports a healthy Richard Taylor: “EFTTEX is past year and, with a host of a showcase for the year new products on the launch ahead.” pad and recently appointed key personnel in place, is looking ahead in keen anticipation of further growth. International expansion remains at the heart of the Leeda strategy and the big European show in Valencia is seen as a vital springboard into new territories. Richard Taylor, appointed Managing Director in January, told Angling International: “At EFTTEX we will be focusing on MAP, Wychwood Specimen and Wychwood Game and will use the event to showcase and launch a wide range of new products from each of the three brands. “All the brand managers will be at the show for the duration, along with the marketing manager, and will be happy to discuss the brands and their allied marketing plans in depth. “We will be making it clear, as we have been doing for the past few years, that every new launch from a Leeda brand has come about directly as a result of genuine innovation, which in turn is driven
by a clear understanding of what the angler requires. Nothing is created for the sake of it.” Leeda created a real stir at last year’s EFTTEX with its Wychwood Truefly SLA large arbor reel – adjudged Best New Fly Reel – and hopes that the design, engineering and functionality incorporated in the products it is unveiling this year will create just as much interest. The company’s product development team provided Angling International with an exclusive insight into some of what they have in store, starting with their MAP match fishing brand...
Big statement: The Wychw ood brand is central to Leeda’ s plans.
Below: The innovative Truefly SLA large arbor reels have new sizes for 2010.
“We will be making it clear that every new launch from a Leeda brand has come about directly as a result of genuine innovation driven by the needs of anglers.” July 2010 Angling International
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COMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT... CONTINUED
The ACS 4000 front drag reel, which features MAP’s new auto clip system.
M 1 MAP
AP will be launching two main products at EFTTEX. The ACS 4000 front drag reel – ACS stands for auto clip sytem – is a fantastic development that allows the angler to fish ‘clipped up’ for perfect accuracy without having to manually unclip the line when big, powerful fish are hooked. The groundbreaking ACS system will automatically and safely release the line from the clip, meaning no more panic and no more snap-ups. The reel also features an ultra-sensitive front drag system. The new Hook Length Storage System is the ultimate in perfection for the match angler. The clear lid makes finding the required hook length easy, while the UV coating stops any degeneration of the links. The box takes up to 80 different sizes of hook/hook length strength and can accommodate up to 1,200 hook lengths. Other features include a built-in measuring tool for consistent length accuracy and a white inner plate that is biro/marker friendly, enabling the angler to label hook sizes, diameters etc.
A
2 WychwoodGame
new luggage range is the headline launch from the Wychwood Game brand at EFTTEX. Although introduced as a complete range, the main focus in Valencia will be on 3 products. The Wychwood Wader Bag is a new solution for the recurring problem of storing and transporting
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Angling International July 2010
chest waders or wet clothing. After a session in the water, these important items of equipment are usually thrown into or rolled up into a holdall, which prevents the drying-out process and can cause damage. However, this totally new concept is designed to store dry waders and wet clothes, with a natural drying process that prevents rot and deterioration and prolongs the life of the product. The bag features a waterproof, padded changing mat, air vents for natural drying and integrated valuables pockets. Its compact design also makes transportation simple. Leeda has high hopes for the bag in the accessories category of the Best New Product Awards. Also within the game range is the new Wychwood New launches from Wychwood Game include the waterproof Wychwood Wader Bag.
Boot Bag, a high quality walking or wading boot carrier made from a waterproof 1680D material featuring an easy change neoprene mat for standing on when changing footwear outdoors. Developed as a safe and hygienic way of transporting dirty footwear, the bag has been created using the unique Drop’N’Dry system, which allows the footwear to dry conveniently inside the bag when stored. And completing the trio of game launches is the new Wychwood Competition Drogue, designed, say its makers, to raise boat fishing capability to international standards. The drogue will considerably slow the boat during drift in high winds, thus increasing fishing time in the correct zones. Featuring rot-proof, invisible ropes it also maintains stealth while on the water. The C-Clip metal fixings facilitate convenient, swift fixing and removal to and from the drogue clamps. The easily collapsible two-arm design allows for speedy retrieve of the drogue, which packs away into its own protective, easy drying storage bag. The drogue comes complete with its own set of three-inch clamps, allowing it to be moved, repositioned and packed away with ease. Visitors to Valencia will also be able to see new editions of the award-winning Truefly range of large arbor reels. Truefly won the Best Fly Reel accolade in Budapest last year and the two new sizes – #5/6 and #9/11 – have been specifically introduced for intricate, small water anglers and salmon anglers respectively. Both come to the market directly as a result of demand from anglers. In addition, the covers will also come off the distinctive all-white Truefly Saltwater range in the Feria Valencia exhibition centre. Again capitalising on the Truefly’s success, Wychwood has responded to requests from anglers to produce a reel capable of handling the rigours of sea fishing. The manufacturers say the white finish is a first among reels and has been chosen to reflect heat and help keep the spool cool in tropical climates.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRIES IN THE EFTTEX BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARDS? See p55
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Left: Wychwood Game Boot Bag and, right, the Truefly Saltwater reel.
3 WychwoodSpecimen Clothing and accessories have been a big focus for the Wychwood development team this year, with the result that a number of exciting new products will be revealed to the market for the first time on Stand Number A19 at EFTTEX. Among them will be two new additions to the Solace Flexi Rib Range – the Mosquito Net and All Weather Front. Both, says Wychwood, are destined to be much sought-after accessories for the very popular Solace Flexi Rib shelters and are particularly suitable for the mobile angler. They offer extremely fast but secure fitting to the shelter, with its innovative elasticated hem. This fits over the top of the shelter’s front rib all the way to the ground and features numerous pegging points, making it very secure indeed. Due to the free flow mesh of the Mosquito Net and the waterproof material of the All Weather Front, now anglers have the weather protection choices they have asked for. A Solace Flexi Rib shelter featuring the new Mosquito Net.
The Pocket Pod is available in either stainless steel or aluminum and has been designed to be the most user-friendly and versatile pod on the market, allowing a quick, easy, stable transition from a goalpost set-up to a pod. Anglers need now only carry two small additions to their normal goalpost bankstick arrangement to ensure they always have a rod pod for those occasions when bankside
conditions dictate they need one. Weighing just 100g for the aluminum version, this versatile rod pod gives a rock solid set-up without the weight of a conventional pod. The Pocket Pod is available in aluminum and stainless steel to match the very popular Wychwood ranges of metalwear already available. Retail is from €19.99. The brand new Solace 3-in-1 Suit has used all the qualities from Wychwood’s incredibly popular Maximiser bundle and then improved them. The 5000 Extremis material is extremely warm and fully waterproof, while still remaining fully breathable. The Solace suit has been given a chunkier, denser hollow fibre filling to provide warmth in all fishing conditions. The jacket has a removable fleece that is secured not only by zips, but also at the sleeve ends and the collar, so that at no time is the fit of the jacket compromised by the inclusion of the fleece. All high wear areas are fitted with double-layered material to ensure longevity. The suit has an upgraded twill material with fully adjustable fastenings at the collar, cuffs and hood. The adjustable bib and brace has been made from the same material and same filling as the jacket for unparalleled performance in all weathers. High impact areas on the bib and brace have been double layered to resist wear. With a retail of €149.99 this suit is unbelievable value for money. The Epic Suit is just what it sounds! The specifications would not look out of place in a premier mountainwear range.
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The suit is incredibly waterproof while still being extremely breathable and double strength layers are used on high wear areas to extend its life; qualities that make this suit ready for any weather that you are likely to fish in. The removable inner hollow-fill jacket is the first one of this quality to be used in a fishing suit. A fully adjustable snorkel hood adds maximum protection for the head, while storm flaps, neoprene cuffs and hem cinchcord ensure a secure fit around the edges to lock out the wind and rain. The Epic Jacket has ample storage space, including a secure internal pocket on both the internal and external jacket along with hand warmer pockets. A lightweight, non-bulky and movement-enhancing design leaves you free to concentrate on your goal. Other features include genuine YKK zippers, fully laminated and taped baffles, adjustable snorkel hood for maximum weather protection, internal comfort fleece collar, internal pocket, two hand warmer pockets, comfort cuffs, hem cinchcord and hollow fiber super loft insulation. The jacket retails at €169.99 and the bib and brace at €99.99.
The Epic Suit.
Want to talk to Leeda? Here’s how to find them...
Tel: +44 (0)1527 587 412 Web: www.leedab2b.co.uk Email: nic.brown@leeda.co.uk EFTTEX stand: A19 July 2010 Angling International
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S U P P OR T ING P R OD U C T IN NO VAT ION W OR L D W IDE
at Angling rs ito ed t uc od pr e th th on m Each t exciting new International select the mos To help you t. ke ar m to t gh ou br g in be le tack customers, we decide on their appeal to yoeurmanufacturers so will include insight from thss immediately. you can start doing busine
products you need to know about A hybrid bait combining the best of soluble and boiled boilies Hungarian company SBS Baits is introducing a number of new boilie products for 2010, including Quest Ready-Made Base Mix, Soluble Quest Ready-Made Base Mix and Double Trick Boilies. Quest Ready-Made Base Mix contains all the key liquid and powdered ingredients to make top quality boilies, requiring only the addition of eggs to the mix to complete the well-proven SBS recipe. The soluble version also contains Gold Treasure Liquid to ensure top quality soluble boilies. The components of both products are packed in transparent plastic foil and accurately measured to make exactly 1kg of boilies. There are nine flavours available – Ace Lobworm, All Season Corn,
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AV1, AV2, M1, M2, M3, Bio Big Fish and Fruit and Nut – and every pack contains the list of ingredients and cooking times (no cooking is required for soluble boilies). Double Trick Boilies are described by SBS Baits as a ‘hybrid’ bait that has all the advantages of both soluble and boiled boilies. The outer layer of the 20mm bait decomposes in about two to three hours, depending on water temperature, but the core is cooked to stay on the rig for up to 12 hours. The bait comes in the same Top and left: the new range flavours as the base mixes. from SBS Baits. Below: how What the makers say: “Both base mixes have been launched the new boilies work. expressly for anglers to discover their exceptional catching qualities on their favourite venues without spending a lot on additives. Double Trick Boilies are a first among bait manufacturing companies. Their intense flavour and scent make them stand out from other baits in attracting carp. These are all fantastic new products – give them a try and find out for yourself. You can find us on stand H19 at EFTTEX.”
Business contacts con ontacts Tel: +36 709 358720 Fax: +36 423 10641 Email: info@sbsbaits.net Website: www.sbsbaits.net July 2010 Angling International
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products you need to know about
Lifelike crankbaits with light-catching surfaces The new Bluegill crankbait, part of the Livetarget lures range, is available in two sizes, two finishes and two diving depths. Having already made a significant sales impact in the US and Canada, Livetarget lures are now being made available in Europe. What the makers say: “These represent an evolutionary step in the way crankbaits are built – from fuselages with accurate profiles and light-catching surfaces to multi-layered paint processes that let anglers match the hatch.”
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Business contacts Tel: +1 905 468 4448 Email: info@koppersfishing.com Website: www.livetargetlures.com
Super-sensitive floats from the US
3 Lures with a scent chamber! Strike Pro’s new T’railer lure incorporates an innovative scent chamber that the company believes will attract not just more fish but also new buyers. The chamber is positioned under the gill of the lure and can be removed so that a Strike Pro Scent Cookie can be added. This dissolves in the water and leaves an attractive trail behind the lure. The T’railer is available in two sizes – 10cm,18g, suspending and 15cm, 57.5g, suspending. What the makers say: “The scent trail combined with the T’railer’s great action is irresistible to predators and provokes aggressive strikes.”
Northland Fishing Tackle’s Lite-Bite Super Pro Slip Bobbers are made from genuine balsa wood and feature sleek elongated pear-shaped designs that are super-sensitive to detect the lightest bites. Ultra-buoyancy combined with the Hi-Vis Red-Alert Firebulb Indicator Stem makes them highly visible in wind, waves and low light. What the makers say: “Put these new bobbers above a bait and even the slightest strikes turn into slam dunks. Team Northland pro staffer and multiple national walleye champion Bruce ‘Doc’ Samson rates them the top floats on the market. These floats are highly visible in all conditions and indicate the lightest of bites.” Business contacts: Tel: +1 218 751 6723 Email: norfish@northlandtackle.com Website: www.northlandtackle.com
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Business Contacts Tel: +46 87 61 0600 Email: lc@cwcab.com Website: www.strikepro.eu
The perfect kit to encourage newcomers to start fly fishing
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Angling International July 2010
Fulling Mill’s ready-to-use fly fishing outfit comes complete with backing, fly line and leader already loaded on to the reel. The outfit is available in 5/6 weight or 7/8 weight options, both with four-piece, nine-foot rods. The 7/8 weight option offers a choice of trout, carp or bass flies. Prices start from £129.95. What the makers say: “This perfectly balanced, quality fishing outfit includes everything needed to start fly fishing, including a selection of Fulling Mill flies to cover a wide range of species.” Business contacts Tel: +44 1293 778600 Email: sales@fullingmill.com Website: www.fullingmill.com
Quick, light and balanced fly rods from Sonik
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The Sonik SK8 series of rods is manufactured using a low flash, ‘stealth’ matt grey blank, with the butt section benefiting from the addition of a 1K carbon weave for added power and durability. The rod is supplied in a charcoal grey cordura tube and cloth bag for protection when in transit. RRP from £179.99. What the makers say: “Ultra-high performance fly rods just took a new turn with the introduction of the new, fast-action Sonik SK8 Series. Unashamedly quick, unbelievably light and well balanced, the smooth tip action will power your fly line in the tightest loop to present your fly with accuracy and precision. These four-piece fly rods stand up to any rods available at any price.”
The Sonik SK8: “unashamedly quick.”
Business contacts Tel: +44 1670 798 910 Email: customerservice@soniksports.com Website: www.soniksports.com
Lures that give you extra control
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The Tail Turner is part of the Asari range of lures suitable for both sea and freshwater. Designer Brett Campbell has 25 years of experience in the field and has worked for a number of years in the USA designing lures for high profile brands. What the makers say: “The Tail Turner’s distinct profile presents a strong silhouette to predators. It has an inbuilt buoyancy back-up system to avoid snags and a weight transfer system that allows for longer casts. The lure is perfectly weighted to dive on the first crank of the handle and has the added attraction of inbuilt rattles. Air pockets make it easy to keep the lure in the strike zone using twitching rod movements and the Diamond Lip bib is a Brett Campbell ‘first’.” Business contacts Tel: +61 3 8360 8191 Email: sales@jmgillies.com.au Website: www.jmgillies.com.au
High quality sea rods tested in the most demanding conditions The Potenza sea rod range from Portuguese manufacturer Vega covers a wide variety of purposes from surfcasting to jigging and has been designed to meet the most demanding challenges. What the makers say: “This is a high quality collection of rods produced using SHM Nanocarbon and tested in the roughest Atlantic conditions. Vega has used only the best raw materials and components to ensure that every detail meets the company’s demanding standards and attention to detail. The Potenza range represents Vega’s investment in quality.” Business contacts Tel: +35 12 19 617455/6 Email: Paulo.soares@mundinautica.com Website: www.vega.com.pt
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Ready for market: the Potenza range has been tested to the extreme.
A tough little lure for anglers chasing after pike
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Mr Cop Junior is a 110mm, 41g flat-sided jerk bait. A smaller version in the popular Mr Cop series, it has an improved predator-resistant finish. Part of the Agat Lures range, it is recommended for experienced anglers. What the makers say: “The lure’s gliding, tilting action perfectly duplicates an injured fish. Its profile and erratic action make it an attractive target for marauding pike.” Business contacts Tel: +371 268 09663 Email: alex.zhoukov@gmail.com Website: www.agatlures.com
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products you need to know about A new range from lure specialists Molix aimed at surface predators The new ‘collezione’ of top water lures from Italian specialists Molix is totally focused on surface predatory species. The range – which includes the biblically-named Punitor 85, Proteus 90 and Shaman Popper – meet the usually high standards of finish, features and performance the market has come to associate with Molix. What the makers say: “This new series perfectly integrates with our current wellstocked lure line, with all the qualities that have created such a strong reputation for Molix in the worldwide lure market. Both the Punitor 85 and the Proteus 90 are versatile, well balanced lures that can be used with a variety of retrieves, including
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the sneaky ‘walking the dog’ style or a fast, skipping retrieve to imitate foraging baitfish. The Shaman is differentiated from other poppers by a big mouth developed for greater and louder water displacement – giving the lure a special edge. “All Molix products incorporate a topgrade finish and extra-sharp hooks. They are also distinguished by the level of care taken to achieve the distinctive action for the type of fishing for which they are intended. Each lure is subjected to prolonged researching and testing to achieve the best results for action and castability.”
From the top: the Punitor, the Proteus and the Shaman.
Business contacts Tel: +39 051 887919 Email: info@molixfishing.com Website: www.molixfishing.com
Chinese professional manufacturer of high quality wooden fishing lures
SQOD FISHING LURES MANUFACTURING COMPANY is seeking for distributors or sales agents
Tel: Fax: Mobile: Website: Email: Skype:
86-769 88943242 86-769 88943242 86-139 29255697 www.sqodlures.com sqodlures@gmail.com sqodlures
OEM ENQUIRIES WELCOME
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Angling International July 2010
THE PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICE FROM ANGLING INTERNATIONAL
Angling International Direct can help you with... The best tackle writers Creative designers Hi-tech digital production Print buying department Experts in production We specialise in design and production of catalogues and brochures, plus all other promotional literature – hassle free, on time and at a competitive price. Use Angling International Direct’s services to give your company the best chance to generate new business worldwide. EMAIL enquiries@angling-international.com OR CONTACT Rob Carter +44 1733 392 970
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Angling International July 2010
US jig head specialist targets European markets with launch
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merican Maple, the net and terminal tackle specialist based in California, USA is preparing for a major push into Europe following the launch of a new jig head range. The company has been a renowned producer of landing nets, squid rigs and jig heads for more than 50 years, primarily in its home country and under the Promar and Ahi USA brand names. It has identified its new Sabo Jig Heads, launched this year, as the product to spearhead its international expansion. Sabo Jig Heads, manufactured under the Ahi USA brand name, are twice the size of standard lead heads without doubling the weight, and can be rigged with most soft baits already on the market. They are made with a chip-resistant acrylic outer layer which protects their vibrant colour and glow material from chipping and flaking off. Razor-sharp
hooks and 3-D eyes come as standard on the three Sabo models: Jig Head, Bullet Head and Squid Head. All have lifelike presentation and are available in several colours, sizes and weights. Says American Maple Director of Marketing Jason Morton: “Ahi USA Sabo Heads are ideally suited for a wide range of both saltwater and freshwater fishing, catching everything from bass and salmon to tunas and jacks. We are expecting them to generate huge interest in Europe. “As a global supplier of Promar and Ahi USA products, our long-term goal has always been to expand our distribution with more partnerships internationally, and especially in the EU. This is the year to accelerate that process. We have a new and innovative product in Sabo Jig Heads which we are sure will excite international distributors. “The Promar and Ahi USA brand lines are
Below: the American Maple HQ in California and base for the Ahi USA and Promar brands.
dedicated towards providing innovative and value-driven products to fishermen around the world.” American Maple will be exhibiting at ICAST in Las Vegas on Booth 2026 where American customers can see the new Sabo Jig Heads. International buyers can contact the company directly on +1 310 515 8881. Visit www.promarnets.com or www.ahiusa.com
July 2010 Angling International
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Angling International July 2010
EFTTEX NEWS 16-PAGE SPECIAL SECTION
‘BEST EVER’ LURE FROM AUSTRALIA
Basser Millyard urges buyers to visit its stand for more details.
NEW LURES & HOOK BAITS
MORE NEW PRODUCTS FOR THE 2010 AWARDS
What makes them such hotly contested award categories?
Your guide to the entries for this year’s EFTTEX Best New Product Awards.
PRODUCTS • ADVICE • INTERVIEWS
“EFTTA gives you rights as a member. Please use them.”
EFTTA General Manager Janet Doyle is urging more members to attend the AGA, this year and beyond. “It’s where so many decisions are made,” she says.
JANET DOYLE EFTTA General Manager
JanetDoyle@Eftta.com +44 20 8365 0405
EFTTA is keen to encourage a greater attendance at its Annual General Assembly, but what important decisions can members actually affect by being there? Janet Doyle: By attending the AGA as a full member your company has the right to vote on all important issues that affect the trade. And if you give sufficient notice, you also have the right to ask for an issue to be included on the agenda and if appropriate, be voted upon. What are some of the key decisions made at recent AGAs that have positively affected members and the sport? There have been many. For example, a vote at the AGA agreed that the Board can suspend a member company for two years if it infringes the rules of membership. At the end of that period the Board can then decide whether or not to allow that company to rejoin EFTTA. And last year the members decided at the AGA to return to Amsterdam in 2011 to celebrate the 30th EFTTEX show. Members have also voted on increasing the number of Board members from 12 to 15, and also to allow manufacturers of fishing tackle machinery to become EFTTA members and therefore to exhibit at EFTTEX. The members also get to vote on who they want to sit on the EFTTA Board which represents their industry.
How much detail about EFTTA’s finances are revealed at an AGA? Full details are provided at the AGA. There is a breakdown of all the income and expenditure. So for example, all members can see all the income generated from membership fees and from EFTTEX. In addition they can see all the expenditure from projects such as the Youth Grant Scheme and from lobbying; also how much it costs to run the association on a day to day basis, including secretariat and CEO expenses. These details are also available on the website for members.
Is the AGA a better forum for raising these concerns? If a member wishes to raise something in a formal capacity, the AGA is a good place to do this. Here they can present an issue, have it debated and voted on if appropriate. All they are required to do is send me details of what it is and observe the ‘28 day before the meeting’ ruling.
The location of EFTTEX is a key and much-debated issue. How can members have their say for 2012 and beyond? The location of EFTTEX is extremely important to our members. We’re expecting to announce at this year’s show the recommended venue for 2012 and if any members wish to comment on it they are very welcome to do so, either at the AGA or at any time during this year’s show.
Is EFTTA satisfied or disappointed with the level of attendance at recent AGAs? On the whole we are disappointed with attendance at the AGA. We would like all members to come, listen to what the Board members have to say, contribute to debate and vote on important issues where appropriate. Over the years we have changed times and how the meeting runs to see if it will attract more people. We’ve had it as an evening meeting with and without refreshments and a breakfast meeting with a buffet breakfast, but the numbers continue to remain steady.
Apart from at the AGA, do individual members enter into much dialogue with EFTTA during the year? What are their main concerns? Yes, we find the members will always contact us over issues that affect them such as lobbying issues, line testing and EFTTEX. The Youth Grant Scheme is also interesting to them.
What is your message to members who do not attend? I would urge all companies to attend this important meeting every year as it is where important decisions are made. If you cannot attend you can send a proxy to vote on your behalf. You simply have to contact me.
July 2010 Angling International
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EFTTEX NEWS
Basser Millyard unveils the sonically enhanced Warlocks
T
his is the best lure I have ever made.” Strong words from a man who has arguably produced more successful lures in his native Australia than anyone else over the last three decades, but Rob Gaden has no doubts about his latest creation. And now visitors to stand B13 at EFTTEX 2010 will have the chance to take a look at the all-new Warlock range – a radical concept in hard-body lure design – when it is premiered at Europe’s big show. Close to 30 years of lure-making knowledge and experience have gone into creating and refining the Warlock, but what makes it really special, says Gaden, is the “unique and unsurpassed” cycle rate incorporated into each lure. This, explains the designer, creates a sonic footprint irresisitible to predatory species. This action is enhanced by Sonic Amplifying Panels, which are unique scalloped panels
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on the underside of the lure’s flanks that amplify and reflect strong sonic vibrations closely mimicking a natural baitfish and inducing strikes. At the top of the range is the Warlock 125mm, a big fish designed primarily for Australia’s mighty barramundi, a species known for destroying inferior lures! The 125mm is a super heavyweight also perfect for many more of the world’s largest and strongest fresh and saltwater predators, including big pike, musky, stripers, bluefish and kingfish. Moving down the range, there is a full complement of sizes to suit most species. The 80mm model is a bite-sized lure ideal for largemouth bass, pike, stripers, bluefish and other medium to large predators. Further down comes the versatile 68mm model, tough enough to handle big saltwater
Angling International July 2010
predators but equally capable with largemouth bass, big lake trout and pike. Finally, the Warlock’s 55mm has been designed with trout, bream, bass, perch, crappies and other panfish in mind. Potential distributors will be welcome at stand B13 in Valencia. Exclusive distribution is currently available in all territories.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT Contact John Millyard Tel +61 2 9695 7799 Email sales@bassermillyard.com.au
Above: the new Warlock lures are “the best I’ve ever made,” says Rob Gaden.
EF STANTDTEX No.
B13
THE EFTTEX BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARDS 2010 For those in the hall at Valencia and for readers around the world, a guide to all the products entered into this year’s EFTTEX Awards.
H
ere at Angling International, we are delighted to once again be the sponsor of the EFTTEX Best New Product Awards, the most prestigious awards in the European trade calendar. Last year we introduced a judging panel of international angling journalists, which served to inject a new level of transparency and fairness. In that same spirit of innovation and improvement, this year we are pleased to add another new element to the awards, and you are holding it in your hands; a complete listing of all the products entered into the EFTTEX Best New Product Awards 2010. The awards are a showcase for the newest and most innovative tackle on the market, so it is only fitting that those innovations are presented here within the pages of the magazine. We take our commitment to the awards seriously. We hope you will match our support by taking the time to read this listings and, if you are in the hall in Valencia, taking time to visit the Best New Products Stand. Enjoy the new section!
BEST ST NEW HARD ARD LURE
Rob Carter, Editorial Director Angling International.
“The Hard Lure category has once again attracted major global brands including Rapala, Sébile, Strike Pro and Fox.”
Once again the Best New Hard Luree category ry has attracted major global brands. ds. The biggest name of them all Rapala pala has entered its Clackin’ Minnow, ow, part of its successful Clackin’ family. It creates a distinctive clacking sound and vibration bration thanks to a single steel ball in its sound und chamber and external metal discs. Sébile le has its D&S Crank DR which, it says, make deep and snagless fishing a new possibility. It gives super deep diving for casting or trolling. ing. While Strike Pro will unveil its T’railer, a ‘revolutionary’ lure which enables scent attractants to be added to its ‘Internal Scent Chamber’. From the Fox Rage brand comes The Hitcher, which is based on the humpback shape of the perch, one of the preferred prey species of pike. The swimming motion also imitates a real perch while steel balls in the belly give the perfect pitch of vibration. Australian company Basser Millyard will bring its new Warlock lures. Unique, scalloped panels on the underside of the flanks amplify and reflect strong sonic vibrations that closely mimic a natural baitfish, causing an instant strike instinct in predators. While Danish company Innovative Lures has its VerticalJerkbait which promises a fusion between the traditional jerk bait side-to-side action and the vertical style of a soft bait jig. It’s thanks to a weight placed in the front and a floating back end. Mann’s Bait from America will unveil
Sébile’s D&S Crank DR: a deep diver for casting or trolling.
The ‘amazingly lifelike’ Livetarget Frog.
Stretch Alive for tough saltwater fish and large inshore species. “It provides the fisherman with a lifelike action not available in any other deep diving lure,” they say. While another American company Livetarget offers up part two of its Livetarget Frog system. “This ‘Walk The Frog’ hardbody topwater bait features tantalising side-to-side action and amazing attention to lifelike detail,” they say. The Yo-zuri Egi AURIE-Q RS is designed for all types of squid fishing. It features the Yo-Zuri Original Rolling Shaft for added action and to prevent line twisting. And the Halco Hamma is a suspending casting lure which uses a unique weight transfer system. It’s ideal for accurate, long distance casts for tough fish. Lovec-Rapy will unveil its Power Pike lures. They are perfect wobblers for either lake or river fishing from the bank, where slow spinning and making jerky retrieves is recommended. Finland’s Wake Fishing has the Wake Jigwobbler which it says is a new hybrid lure with a totally unique swimming action. It swims attractively while sinking down and also when retrieved. Power Jig will showcase its Little Jack which depends on water flowing through its gills for its attraction to prey fish; Salmo has
July 2010 Angling International
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EFTTEX NEWS a highly digestible bait with an excellent nutritional profile.” And from SBS Tactical Bait Products comes Double Trick Boilies. Says the company: “After the huge success of soluble boilies, developed and marketed by SBS, here is yet another amazing invention. The core of this hybrid boilie is cooked while the outer shell is soluble. The Double Trick Boilies combine all the benefits of traditional and soluble boilies. There is no need to change the bait on the rods because the inner part of the boilie will stay on the rig for hours even when the 6mm outer layer breaks down.”
Lovec-Rapy’s Power Pike lures: perfect for lake and river fishing.
BEST NEW FLY LINE
its Sweeper #12 which is a smaller version of last year’s Salmo Sweeper; TopSharp brings the Face-Off, an exchangeable head crankbait; Duel has its Hardcore Minnow which is designed for long casting; and Reaction Strike will bring its Rattlin Revo Shad, a multijointed vibration lure for steady retrieves and vertical jigging in slow and fast falls. Finally, Italian brand Molix will unveil the Cursor Hard, the ‘hard’ version of its EFTTEX 2008 award-winner in the Soft Lure category.
BEST NEW SOFT/NATURAL HOOK BAIT
Despite only attracting two entries, the new Hook Bait category includes two of the most eagerly anticipated new launches of the year. Berkley Gulp! Carp! is part of a large-scale push by parent company Pure Fishing in the carp market and it is, they promise, ‘something special’. Says Berkley: “Gulp! Boilies are produced in Europe with Berkley’s own chemist in charge of every single product. And Berkley even makes its own flavours – unlike many of its rivals. “Gulp! ready-made boilies contain only the best human-grade ingredients to ensure 58
coating instead of common PVC. PE naturally floats whilst pure PVC sinks and needs ‘floatants’ to increase its volume (diameter). PE also has ten times more abrasion resistance. “This is true innovation and incredible performance when fishing with shooting heads,” says Climax. Finally there is the Sage Coastal Shooting Head which is based on the highly successful Sage Performance Taper and was designed for coastal sea trout fishing. The line features the innovative Alphanumerical Line Size Indication which means fly fishers will always know exactly which shooting head they are fishing.
Four brands feature in this category for 2010. From the UK, Snowbee introduces its XS-tra Distance. It’s one of a range of new fly lines (Floating, Intermediate and Fast Sink) from Snowbee with a shortened head and optimum profile to assist anglers in obtaining extra range, especially when conditions dictate a shortened back cast. RingSlide Fly Line is new from FirstDart. The lines “mark a new level of coating performance in a value-for-money line,” says the company. “Combining our innovative Dynamic Braid Core technology with a brand new coating that is drier to the feel and slicker through the rings, we have created a line that shoots further, fishes finer and floats higher than other lines at the price.” RingSlide Fly Line is available in all FirstDart’s normal profiles and sizes. Meanwhile German company Climax introduces PE+ Jet Shooting Line, the first shooting line, they say, that uses Polyethylene (PE)
Above: Double Trick Boilies. Right: PE+ Jet Shooting Line from Climax.
Angling International July 2010
BEST NEW METAL LURE
Last year’s winning company, RB from Russia, returns this year with another eye-catching metal lure. The Professional (above) is, they say, the first of its kind to combine two different types of lures: rotating and oscillating. Its movements mimic injured prey fish. Also from Russia comes a typically high quality heavy duty spinner from Extreme Fishing. The Exact 29g is for really huge species. And proving that eastern Europe is a hotbed of innovation in lures is the KIBS Carboni 1 EX from Salmo Latvia. “This invincible lure is especially made for catching predatory fish in weedy waters,” says Salmo. “All KIBS lures are handmade.” Another strong contender will be Sébile with its Pro-Shad Spinnerbait Finesse which promises ‘detailing to rival any crankbait’. Its jointed arm means the blades spin at every angle and speed. Likewise Strike Pro will have every confidence in its new Unik metal lure. Says its Swedish designer Tomas Gewalt Sandberg: “I have been chasing Atlantic salmon in the ocean for many years. Finally I made a spoon in a way that it is almost perfect in its action all the way from slow trolling
Russian contender in the Metal Lure category: Extreme Fishing’s Exact 29g.
up to speeds over three knots.” Other European manufacturers have focused on hook innovations. The Heron Crack Squal from Italy’s Carson is a spinner with interchangeable hooks. It is also designed to contain scents and carry weights thanks to its twist open-close compartment. And French company Delalande will introduce its Pro jig heads range. They are made with special hooks designed by the company to fit all sizes of lures. Japanese company Sasame Hooks will bring its Shout! Jig Width lures which are painted in vivid colours and designed to give brisk movement. And America’s Reaction Strike will showcase its JB Spoon, a five-inch ultra-modern weedless spoon design with silicone trailer.
BEST NEW SOFT LURE
The world’s major soft lure brands are well represented at Valencia this year, and are joined by some new names to the Awards. Rapala has entered its new Pro Vertical Shad. A prime example of its series for Europe’s vertical jigging/drop shot specialists, it is available in 3 sizes and 10 vibrant colours. Always a strong contender, Sébile will introduce its Magic Swimmer Soft 105, a durable jointed soft lure which, the company says, swims as well as a real baitfish. Meanwhile the pick of the Jig Power range from French company Powerline relies on a telling combination for its fish-catching abilities: a lead head with a hole and a soft lure with a hollow body which together allow an attractant gel to spread a scent trail. There are plenty of other innovations. Strike Pro has Reaction Baits, which are 100% biodegradable, edible for fish and infused with a patented ‘pheromone fusion’ forrmula which prompts aggressive attacks. And Esca Global from Norway is promising ‘a shad lure unlike anything seen in the market.’ The Esca 400 combines the advantages of Esca’s lure lights with scent to make what Esca Global promises is ‘a killer lure’. Fox International will introduce the Legend, its own ‘killer’ bait for big zander. It has twelve loose tentacles that act independently of one another and pulsate
Below from top to bottom: Wake Fishing’s Soft Gear Flexfish, the Dragon V-lures Buster, Sébile’s Magic Swimmer Soft 105 and the Quantum Joker.
during jigging. Meanwhile Koppers Livetarget is promising its amazingly lifelike Hollow Body Frog ‘will change the whole frog fishing market’. From France comes the Delalande Buster Shad for linear and vertical fishing. It can be easily customised with rattles in its three holes or with flavoured paste in its belly splits. And from Poland comes the Dragon V-lures Buster. It is, says Dragon, perfect for fishing in shallow, richly overgrown waters thanks to the unique construction of its caudal fin. The fin is fixed at less than 90 degrees in relation to the body, giving the lure an aggressive action even during very slow movements. Germany’s Quantum brand introduces the Joker, describing it as ‘a revolutionary soft lure which can be fished in reverse gear!’ The unusual weight distribution and way of rigging allow the lure to literally ‘walk’ backwards, an action which is extremely attractive to perch and zander. From America’s Reaction Strike comes the Soft Revolution Shad, a soft version of its
“Strike Pro’s Reaction Baits are infused with a ‘pheromone fusion’ formula which prompts attacks.”
EFTTEX NEWS
world renowned Revolution Shad Hard Lure. Newcomers from Finland, Wake, offer up the Soft Gear Flexfish which has an extra large tail for extra body movement. Molix has the Supernato, a soft shallow crankbait which can be used as a catcher on top, subsurface and even suspended underwater. And TopSharp introduces its multi-use UltraLure.
BEST NEW ROD
Performance, value and innovation are the key words in the Best New Rod category this year. Leading the way is the Quantum Hypercast Gleam, a revolutionary surf rod with an integrated tip light. Meanwhile, new EFTTEX exhibitor Wake will be showcasing its Ensigna Jigger, an ergonomic rod that has spare tip parts with different actions, all clearly marked. Germany’s Ockert unveils the Carat Z under its Sportex brand, a five-piece spinning rod made with innovative Zylon fibres and HM carbon material; while Extreme Fishing from Russia will be entering its Absolute Zero rod aimed at ice fishermen chasing trophy fish. Other manufacturers are offering high performance at the best possible price. They
Above: Strike Pro’s new Reaction Baits. Top right: the Chub S-Plus Max Bivvy. Bottom right: the JRC Crib. Below left: the Octana Spinning IM8.
include Okuma, which describes its entry, the Octana Spinning IM8, as having “the look and feel of a rod costing much more.” And Snowbee from the UK, whose Sea Bass Specials are, they say, perhaps the lightest and most affordable performance rods in the sea fishing sector. Shimano will compete with its Lesath Ax Poer Game rods while the Hercules Seeker rods from Angler Pro in Sweden is a series built for slow-action deep water jigging. From further afield comes the CD Tournament 37kg. The latest game rod from CD Rods in New Zealand, it is built with high quality components including New Zealand leather
“The CD Tournament 37kg from New Zealand is built with high quality components throughout.”
fore grip, latest Alps roller guides and CD Rods’ original helix core of 100% graphite. And from Japan comes the Hayate rod range, traditional Japanese-designed rods promised at reasonable prices.
BEST NEW CARP BIVVY/SHELTER
This award will be a straight two-way fight between two of Europe’s heavyweight carp and specimen brands. Visitors are recommended to head to the special bivvy area of EFTTEX for a closer look at the two competing products. There they will find the Chub S-Plus Max Bivvy which promises maximum all-round protection from the elements. It features an extended hood, storm side panels and easy to erect rigid frame. The three-way door is completely removable. It can be opened from top to bottom and is fitted with a clear vision panel, mosi window and cover. Next to it you will find the JRC Crib, which offers an innovative solution for anglers on the move. Says JRC: “For overnight anglers who want to stay mobile, leaving the bivvy or umbrella at home is an obvious weightsaving option. However, nobody wants to risk a soaking from sudden rain which could quickly ruin the whole session. The innovative Cocoon Carp Crib is the ideal solution. It fits almost every bedchair on the market in less than a minute thanks to a simple clip
system, yet weighs just 4.5kg – that’s less than your bait bucket!” The Crib’s frame simply clips onto a bedchair. Once you have thrown the wrap over it, you can secure it in place. “What could be easier or more convenient?” asks JRC. Other features include an ultra-light 6061 Aerospace grade aluminium frame system of 16mm thickness and a dual door system.
BEST NEW MONOFILAMENT
Another four-way battle, this category features three European brands and an American. From France comes Parallelium Hyperfluorocarbon 3Core. The latest in a long line of innovations from Advancium Technologies, it is not yet available in retailers’ stores. Triple co-extrusion technology has resulted in a monofilament with unmatched knot strength, high abrasion resistance and extreme sensitivity. Parallelium Hyperfluorocarbon 3Core is designed to be used as either a shock leader or an ultra-castable FC main line. Golden Fish from EFTTEX host nation Spain has entered its Golden Fish Hyper-cast, a 100% fluorocarbon line featuring colour technology; while from Turkey comes Mercan MeexPower Premium, a line made from a special blend of polymers to give a very high breaking strain with minimum stretch. It is, says Mercan, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater applications. And from the US comes Eagle Claw Bioline,an eco-friendly line which Eagle Claw says completely degrades in five years. “It is as strong as a normal line,” they say, “and engineered to retain tensile strength for the first 10-12 months of use. You won’t lose fish!”
Below: MeexPower Premium and the ecofriendly Bioline from Eagle Claw.
“‘Bioline is as strong as a normal line,’ says Eagle Claw, ‘and engineered to retain tensile strength for 12 months.’” July 2010 Angling International
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EFTTEX NEWS drag system is outperforming everything on the market today.” And finally comes the Albacore Gorilla 8 Veloce, a powerful, light and compact reel designed for vertical jigging and more.
BEST NEW FLY REEL
The Okuma Andros multiplier has been designed for ‘the toughest fishing on the planet,’ say its makers.
BEST NEW MULTIPLIER REEL
Four companies will be fighting to win the Best New Multiplier Reel Award this year. American company Ardent has entered its C400 Baitcasting Reel, which it says, combines durability, high performance and value. It features Ardent’s new Comfort Grip® frame design which uses lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum for easy casting. Also from the US comes the Hibdon Performance Series 800SX, which promises a revolution in casting. It features the ‘Wave Bar’ levelwind which has no energy-robbing line guide and, which its makers say, will cast noticeably farther and with much greater ease. Meanwhile Svendsen Sport offers up the Okuma Andros, saying: “After two years of development and rock hard testing, the new Okuma Andros is born. It is a new concept in saltwater multiplier designed for the toughest fishing on the planet. Its lever Right: the Hibdon Performance Series 800SX. Above right: the Taimer fly rod and the Madison River Camo Reel.
If you want your fly reel to stand out, make sure it is packed with new and useful features. That’s the message from this year’s entrants in the Best New Fly Reel category. For example, from New Zealand’s CD Rods comes the Taimer in 5/6 and 7/8 sizes. These reels feature large diameter cork drag, FXB copolymer drag for low inertia start-up, SS drag bearings, one way SS spindle bearing with internal cap and Oring seal, drag-sealed high density ABS cap, silent retrieve with subtle line-out clicker and easy left-to-right conversion. And from Greys comes the GX 500. They say: “With our registered fly line identification system, improved push spool release cassette design, twin rulon disc drag system and whole host of other top quality design
features, the GX 500 is set to become the largest selling cassette system reel in history.” Meanwhile Leeda, the company behind last year’s winning fly reel, returns with the Truefly SALT, the latest super-light reel in the Truefly family. They say: “The Truefly SALT fly reel couples our award-winning super large arbor design with an improved lighter, barstock aluminium frame, so maintaining its status as the world’s lightest reel in its class.” The SALT features Truefly’s new saltwater-proof drag system along with its unique polar-white finish for repelling sunlight. Add Leeda: “It maintains a cool external
temperatures in tropical climates, offering the saltwater fly angler unprecedented comfort and enhanced performance.” From Montana Fly comes the Madison River Camo Reel, a fully machined aluminum large arbor reel, featuring four new finishes in Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Camo and River Rock. And finally German company Vosseler will introduce its new Tryst model, a new lightweight fly reel produced from high-tech material.
BEST NEW CLOTHING
Innovative new waders are to the fore in this year’s new Clothing category. The Mackelly Flotation Wader has a detachable flotation system which can be inflated immediately with a CO2 cylinder or blown up manually with a tube. Meanwhile, the Imago Amphibian Light Wader is a three-layer wader perfectly suited for fishing in warmer climates. And the Patagonia Rio Gallegos Breathable Waders offer a ‘groundbreaking level of comfort, warmth and convenience’ thanks in part to a patented merino-wool footstructure. They also include additional new features, notably a waterproof cell phone pocket. And in the sector this year there is even room for waders that look like regular jeans. They come courtesy of Russia’s Extreme Fishing who say they are very comfortable. Clothing specialists Geoff Anderson will be introducing the European-made Tsuba™, said to be among the very first environmentallyfriendly fishing jackets and the first to offer ‘real’ waterproof pockets. It is also the first
“The Titan winter costume will keep you warm at temperatures as low as -40°C.”
From top: sunglasses from Costa, a winter costume from Norfin and waders from Imago.
fishing jacket to use hydrophilic non-porous membrane technology. Global giants Shimano will be offering up their GLX Goretex clothing. Meanwhile the Titan from Norfin is a winter costume designed for ice fishing or snowmobile riding in especially severe climate conditions. Features include elasticated neoprene cuffs with thumbhole, special lining design, internal snow gaiters, and reinforced knees and seat area. The makers claim that with 90% down and 10% feather insulation, the Titan will keep you warm at temperatures as low as -40°C. Focusing on brighter weather is sunglasses specialist Costa, who will showcase the Bomba tortoise sunrise glass 400 lens. It is a high contrast speciality lens that allows maximum light transmission and enhanced depth perception. Bomba’s nylon frame features co-moulded injection technology and hinges, making it nearly indestructible. Built-in temple lenses enhance peripheral vision and an interior no-slip Hydrolite™ lining provides a comfortable fit. Also from America is the Fishouflage Power Cap from Panther Vision, presented as the “ultimate hands-free flashlight”. This hat looks just like every other premium quality baseball cap, say its makers, but with one very important difference. When you need light, just click the switch hidden on the underside of the brim and you have instant ultra bright light from the LEDs that are built into and under the brim. The exclusive three-way lighting technology lets you select the lighting configuration you need for your specific task: Low Beam for up-close tasks like reading and knot tying; High Beam for distance lighting; and Power Beam for when you really want a lot of light.
BEST NEW SPINNING REEL
Innovation is to the fore in what is traditionally one of the most competitive categories at the EFTTEX Best New Product Awards. This year sees strong entries from all major manufacturing territories. America’s Accurate July 2010 Angling International
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EFTTEX NEWS The Van Staal VM150 is the first Van Staal with interchangeable right/left retrieve.
Fishing will be introducing the SR-6. The smallest of its SR series, the US-made SR-6 shares plenty of the features ot its bigger brothers including patented TwinDrag® technology, stainless steel gears and ultrasmooth ABEC ball bearings. Says Accurate: “This reel is an inshore dream come true and has plenty of power for its size.” Meanwhile Abu Garcia has high hopes for its new Revo Neos Premier, a spinning reel with the lightweight properties of graphite but the strength of an all-metal body. “You’ve never seen a reel like it,” they say. “The Revo Premier provides the best of both worlds in a single package. It’s Abu Garcia’s highest quality spinning reel ever.” Available in two sizes – 20 and 30 – the larger model weighs just 225g. Omoto is another company with a bold claim. “There are fish you’d never dare to challenge with spinning gear -- until now,” it says in support of its ‘new tech’ Severo reel. The Severo applies spool tension evenly for superior drag performance, using a unique pre-set knob together with multi-disc metal/carbon drag washers for incredibly precision. Yet more innovation is promised from Leeda, the company behind the new MAP ASC reel. The line clip on the reel has the ability to release the line automatically, so you can cast into the distance, all the time ensuring your bait lands in the same place; but should you hook a big fish, the clip will release the line. Machined out of aluminium for exact toler64
ances and superior strength, the Van Staal VM150 is perfect for saltwater jigging or popping with braided or monofilament line, says parent company Zebco Sports Europe. It is also the first Van Staal reel built with interchangeable right/left-hand retrieve. Indonesian brand Relix will be introducing its new Wave Breaker, an aluminum spinning reel intended for general and light jigging applications. It features a dual drag system, double stopping system, all brass gear system, stainless steel main shaft and up to 11 ball bearings. It is resistant to saltwater and has an optional lubrication port. And finally, Shimano will this year enter the Stella FE, which it calls ‘a prime example of our development capabilities’. “The Stella FE is a work of mechanical art which brings greater joy to fishing,” the company says, but will it prevail in the hall at Valencia?
BEST NEW BRAIDED LINE
The Wave Breaker from Relix is part of a truly international field in the Spinning Reel category.
Angling International July 2010
There is no shortage of confidence among the entrants in the Best New Braided Line category this year. Says global giant Berkley of its new Whiplash Camo: “The best just got better! Adding a camouflaged version of Whiplash will delight specimen anglers stalking big wary fish such as carp and tench. The combination of subtle greens and browns ensure this new Camo version blends perfectly into any lake or riverbed environment, with or without vegetation.” Strike Pro is similarly bullish about its new Strike Wire Extreme, saying: “Finally we can introduce a tough and powerful superline for all kinds of fishing. From big game fishing to vertical jigging, Strike Wire Extreme delivers complete control when the big
fish take your bait, and the strength you need to get them in your boat.” And Delux says of its new Monope line: “Most anglers have dreamed of having a special fishing line that combines the best characteristics of PE braid and nylon monofilament. Monope realises those dreams. It’s as strong as PE braid and as smooth as nylon monofilament. There’s no curling or backlash and no water absorption.” Meanwhile French line specialists Parallelium will showcase its Hybridbraid FC8X Multi6. It is a ‘super braid with unmatched casting performance’, they say, and designed to offer anglers maximum castability and maximum durability. It is available in 120m and 600m spools. Another specialist manufacturer, FirstDart, has entered Platinum Braids Smoothex, a completely round braid made from 100% UHMWPE fibres. Says FirstDart: “Its unique braided construction and fluorocarbon resin coating gives a super smooth braid that casts like a dream, is easy to knot and retains the incredibly fishing sensitivity of braided lines.” From Turkey comes Mercan PE Braided Platinium. Its makers say it has the ‘strongest tenacity ever introduced to the world’, showing an ‘amazing breaking strength of 40g per denier, which is almost four times that of nylon’. PE Braided Platinum also has almost zero water absorption and good buoyancy and is strongly resistant to UV radiation. Meanwhile Wake Fast Touch is a cut-resist-
EFTTEX NEWS ant braided line that comes with an innovanovative packet that enables easy direct spooling oling to the reel. There is a mechanism to attach ach the line easily to the rod and even keep it straight and in the right tens when spooled. ooled. Far Eastern company Relix will be showhowcasing Liquid Wire, a very heavy braided ed line which sinks extremely fast in the water yet remains supple enough to lie completely flat on the bottom. It comes in camouflage colours. olours. From America, Castaic Warrior Braid is designed specifically for ultra low abrasion on and extra high strength when predator fishing. ing. And finally Gosen EU PE line is made from om super high strength polyethylene fibre to give increased strength and durability.
BEST NEW ACCESSORY
Long standing EFTTEX supporter and exhibitor VMC Pêche will be celebrating its 100th anniversary at the show. Will it also be celebrating a win in the Best New Accessory category? It is entering its new 3X Strong Treble Hook, the third addition to its Spark Point® premium range of trebles, designed for super tough species. There is strong competition, however, perhaps stronger than ever this year, covering accessories in all market sectors. Fox will be competing under its Fox Rage brand with the Stand Up Bigfoot, a jig head it says is ‘unbeatable when jigging from the shore’. It has been especially designed to be cast and worked around the target area without snagging. Italian company Molix is also promising a ‘revolutionary’ jig head. The Magux features a special hook moving system which allows the angler to let the lure swim and move like a real live creature. Bags are to the fore this year. The
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Clockwise from top: the ZEXUS ZX-310, the Stand Up Bigfoot, Boone’s Crimping Tool and P-Line Stop Glue.
Sébile’s Soft Weight System allows anglers to change the way lures are weighted.
Angling International July 2010
Wychwood Waderbag is, say its makers, a new, innovative solution for transporting and storing chest waders or wet clothing. It combines a registered folding design and the unique Wychwood DropDry system which helps drying. While from Japan comes the Shout! Adventure Bag, which is big and solid and has four wheels at its base – ideal for those long-distance fishing trips. There are two guide manufacturers with entries. American Tackle Company brings its Virtus Ring Lock Guides made of solid titanium alloy; while REC has its Recoil Black Pearls made from a special nickel titanium shape memory alloy which makes them extremely hard but flexible. Italy’s P-Line will be introducing Stop Glue, a revolutionary welding system which promises the end to knots, the weak points of fishing lines. P-Line Stop Glue can weld any combination of nylon, fluorocarbon and
“Its makers say it’s the most powerful LED headlight to come out of Japan.” braid. While from America comes Ardent Pro Parts Cleaner, a cleaning system designed to clean dirty components more completely and efficiently. Each kit includes a brush, cleaning cloth and an 8oz bottle of Reel Kleen® Cleaner, enough for five or six cleanings. Electronics and video systems will be much in evidence too. Blubite System One is an underwater video capture system for tracking fish, recording bait movement… and for watching all the action beneath the surface. From Grauvell comes the Aquasports Underwater Video System. It has 21 lights to give clear underwater pictures. Meanwhile Liquid Zone Oy offers up an intriguing electronic device, the Zoner T1 which when attached to a trolling line dives to a pre-programmed temperature or depth. It means the lure reaches the point where game fish are most active. America’s Boone will be bringing its Crimping Tool to Valencia, a heavy duty stainless steel tool with four die-cut sizes. There will also be a 3-in-1 Riggin Tool from Relix. An innovative combination tool for making rigs, it includes a skin stripper, line cutter for braid and monofilament, and a knot and loop puller. Belardfish will be showcasing its Platinum Diverse downriggers for fishing boats while System Fish will have Train Beach for anglers trolling lures and natural bait both from the shore and from boats. Look out too for the ZEXUS ZX-310 from Japan’s Fuji-Toki. Its makers say it is the most powerful LED headlight in the Japanese fishing industry. Gu’an New Donghui Fishing Tackle Co. Ltd has a range of fishing floats under the Donghui trademark. It includes catfish floats made of Chinese paulownia wood, Bombardo floats made of acrylics, and crystal floats in 14 different sizes. Imago Explorer is a new float tube with an
EFTTEX NEWS
Left: the Imago Explorer float tube package. Above: Rhino’s brand new Sharkoon Kayak.
innovative instrument board, smart rod/can holders and a cool carrying bag. Each package for retail consists of the float tube, pump, fins and bag. Meanwhile Easyjigging is a rod support from Plumiratun which the company says makes for comfortable fishing in all waters. It avoids rod pressure in the forearm and side. And the J&T Fish Grip, with its stainless steel construction and anti-slip EVA handle, is a
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powerful tool for big game fishing. Russia’s Extreme Fishing will introduce the Extreme Storage System for flies, soft baits and terminal tackle. Meiho from Japan will showcase the Versu VS-3078 Tackle Box which features a special handle for extra security. Plastica Panaro has the Art 196 which has fully removable dividers and a hanging bait storage system. And French seat box specialist Rive will have high hopes for its new RiveBox. Sébile has entered its Soft Weight System
“The WUSB wireless system will change the bite alarm market forever, says its maker Prologic.”
Angling International July 2010
which allows weights to be switched on hooks to give lures different falling and swimming actions. The tungsten gum rubber weights are environmentally-friendly and re-usable. Meanwhile there is the Aquateko Fluoro-Clear Invisaswivel™ which is a non-corrosive revolutionary new swivel invention designed to replace the industry standard metal swivel in numerous situations. It is nearly invisible in water and has neutral buoyancy. From Prologic comes the WUSB, a wireless USB alarm system which includes a polyphonic speaker, digital recorder and a USB port for loading music, sounds and MP3 files. “It’s quality and value for money will change the bite alarm market forever,” say the makers. From the UK comes the Tubeology
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EFTTEX NEWS BEST NEW FLY ROD
Above: the Memory Foam Bedchair from Herun and VMC Pêche’s new 3X Strong Treble Hook. Below: video innovation from Grauvell.
Combination Lure Kit as featured in the June issue of Angling International. This modular lure system allows the creation of two million variations of tube flies, snake flies, flying Cs and spinners. Screw-threaded weights, colour heads and lure styles can be swapped easily to meet changing water conditions. And Waterproof Innovations will be introducing the Easy-2-Hook No Knot Lure Adaptor which, they say, allows anglers to attach lures to lines within five seconds… without a knot! There is plenty to excite accessory buyers in the fly fishing market. Take the Micro Snap Predator Titanium Fly Leader from Germany’s Traun River. It is an innovative fly leader made for big toothy predators like pike and combines the best of both worlds. First, there is the highly flexible titanium wire which resists all sharp teeth; and secondly, the innovative and powerful Micro Snap allows a fly change within two seconds. EFTTEX ever-present Turrall introduces the Unibobber, a miniature balloon of trapped air that can be used in all your favourite
floating fly patterns. While Umpqua will be showcasing its new UPG Fly Box in three sizes and three translucent colours for easy fly identification. Herun will be showing its memory foam products including Memory Foam Pillow and Memory Foam Bedchair plus a new unhooking mat for carp anglers. Montana Fly will be bringing its River Camo iPhone cover which is available in Brown-Trout, Rainbow-Trout, Largemouth-Bass, Tarpon, River-Rock and Timber-Camo designs. And Costa Sunglasses will be hoping to attract attention with its new Jose black frame Copper 580 P lens sunglasses. Finally Rhino will have the tough Sharkoon Kayak which has been developed to incorporate a number of accessories such as tailormade rod holders and an echo sounder holder.
Smart thinking is much in evidence in this category this year. Take the Greys XF2 Streamflex+. It features a hidden six-inch section which stows away securely inside the reel seat/handle until required. It can then be inserted into the rod without re-threading the fly line, giving a sharp, accurate dry fly rod at 9ft 6ins, and a well balanced 10ft nymph rod. New EFTTEX exhibitors Imago will be unveiling their Imago Performance Tool (IPT) which has been designed by Gary Loomis assisted by Jason Borger. Say Imago: “Gary’s comeback to fly rod building after 11 years is truly remarkable. His ferrule design, which allows the best progressive action on the market, is nothing less than a miracle.” Sportex meanwhile will be introducing its Diamond Fly, a brand new four-piece range featuring an innovative reel seat. They say: “It perfectly combines the characteristics of a presentation rod and a casting rod with a harmonic parabolic action.” The Vivarelli Franco Trout is a range of four-piece rods especially for nymph fishing. Completing the list are the G.Loomis NRX and from Thinkfish, the WIT 10ft #2. The latter uses an advanced combination of fibres and resins in a multi-module structure to deliver power and sensitivity in one package.
Left: the Performance Tool from Imago. Right: the Greys XF2 Streamflex+.
“The rod features a hidden six-inch section which stows away inside the reel seat.” 70
Angling International July 2010
E LIONBEE R NE CH WIN OKEEt 2010 E UR LAK LW tO F
FLUOROHYBRID PRO FHP ® Champions Series designed for all Pro Performance
Competition Grade • ULTRA LOW STRETCH MUCH LOWER THAN PURE FC • HYPER STRONG • SUPER SILKY & SMOOTH • UNMATCHED REAL KNOT STRENGTH / REAL DIAMETER • EXTREME SENSITIVITY & CONTROL • REDUCED MEMORY • AMAZING CASTING PERFORMANCE • HIGH ABRASION RESISTANCE • ULTRA DURABLE • 100% WATERPROOF • UV & WEATHER PROOF • ULTIMATE DIAMETER AND STRENGTH ACCURACY • DOUBLE CORE EXTRUSION PROCESS 2CXP TECHNOLOGY • DIN ISO 2062 CERTIFIED
B
“Fluorohybrid Pro is definitely the best fishing line I have ever used in my life. Ever.” Scott Martin, FLW winner and TV host E
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WINNEr LIN E
APPROVED ISO 2062 -12098
POLYVILON FC HYBRID ® INNOVATION...
• GENERAL PURPOSE • GREAT BALANCE • EASY & TROUBLE-FREE CASTING • AWARDED BEST LINE EFTTEX 2008
JOE THOMAS
SCOTT MARTIN
contact@parallelium.com
MARK PACK
www.parallelium.com
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