Angling International - October 2011 - 45 by Brave Creative

NEW ACCESSORY DEAL FOR RAPALA October 2011 Issue 45

Tom om Mackin nterviewed p8 interviewed

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Essential reading for buyers in the tackle trade Now online at angling-international.com

Brazilian trade show continues on upward curve See page 20 October 2011 Issue 45

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Essential reading for buyers in the tackle trade

GLOBAL NEWS EXCLUSIVE

The state of angling in the USA

Special report from the RBFF p14

EXCLUSIVE

Shimano’snewreels Restyled Baitrunner LC leads a formidable line-up of launches for 2012 p18

IFTD survives New Orleans gamble Special report on the ﬁrst show awayy from Denver pp24

Online at angling-international.com

PROLOGICSIGNALS ‘MASSIVE’EXPANSION Svendsen Sport brand has recruited carp angler Enrico Parmeggiani to spearhead the development of ambitious new product range.

rologic has recruited world renowned carp angler Enrico Parmeggiani to spearhead the company’s all-out assault on the booming carp fishing sector. The Svendsen Sport brand has announced that it intends to launch what a spokesman for the company describes as a ‘massive’ and ‘wholehearted’ expansion of its carp offering with a raft of new products for the year ahead. Parmeggiani (left), who has previously worked for Sensas and Trabucco, is in charge of developing and perfecting an ‘extremely’ competitive and ambitious range of carp fishing gear under the Prologic brand. He will be working alongside the existing Prologic team of consultants that consists of world-class carp fishermen from across Europe and includes Denis Curot, Bastian Reetz, Hauke Kleinen, Julien Deconne, Richard Johnson, Richard Chapman, Willy Baccolini and Mathiu Faurisson. Ch Carp fishing is generally acknowledged as the most popular and fastest growing sector in coarse fishing – a fact po recognised by the likes of Pure Fishing and Rapala, who have re both bo declared an interest and their intentions of making further inroads into the sector in the coming year. fu A spokesman for Svendsen Sport said: “Carp fishing is on the rise again in Denmark and has a strong hold in

Europe. Prologic is an established brand and it is eager to reposition itself to reﬂect the popularity of the sector. “Enrico Parmeggiani is one of the top names in carp ﬁshing and he will be responsible for pushing the brand and leading the development of new products. He is very busy making a new range of rigs for boilies as well as developing new bite alarms and more carp rods that will be unveiled in the next 12 months.” The company has begun its blitz with a formidable array of new products, led by a completely new range of carp rods – the C1, C2 and C3. They are said to be designed for everyone from the beginner to the carp expert and have been made for ‘anglers who take their sport seriously’. These are being heavily backed by additions to Prologic’s popular New Green accessories and feature a whole host of new products, including bivvies, bedchairs, sleeping bags, rucksacks and tables. Clothing also features highly in the line-up of new offerings with caps, gloves and T-shirts being introduced alongside the more traditional clothing like waders, jackets and suits. The new Prologic catalogue is now available and features all the company’s exciting new product launches.

Rod manufacturer celebrates huge EFTTEX deals Why Paciﬁc Wave is set to transform its business in France and Spain p44

COMMUNIQUÉ continued on page 8 >

OCTOBER 2011

Benvenuto,Bienvenida Bienvenue,Willkommen

wo companies in our electronics feature this month have taken advantage of a new free service offered to our advertisers. Flajzar and Sema from the Czech Republic are among the ﬁrst businesses to have demonstration videos of their products featured on our fast-growing website. Check out the footage from Flajzar – excusing the mild expletive – as the company demonstrates the durability of its latest product in a novel way; and watch Sema’s presentation of its groundbreaking Rollo bite alarm. Videos are a unique way for manufacturers to bring their products to life. And adding a video section to the Angling International website is a natural extension of our growing service to our readers and advertisers. The Angling International website is updated daily to bring you all the latest product news when it happens. It is unrivalled within the industry and is establishing itself as a ‘must-visit’ site for anyone looking to keep abreast of the latest developments in the ﬁshing tackle trade. Make sure your network of disributors and retailers are visiting each day.

Meanwhile, our front page story this month highlights the continuing growth of the carp market and how the major manufacturers are all vying for a slice of what has become one of the fastest growing and most lucrative sectors in recreational ﬁshing. It is a sector that will be under the spotlight in the November issue of Angling International when we will be presenting our Carp Special. As well as taking a look at what makes the sector tick, we will also be featuring the major players in the market and the latest products they have to offer. And, following the example of Flajzar and Sema, we are extending an invitation to carp manufacturers to take advantage of our new online video service to get that little extra live-action coverage of their products to informationmad ﬁshing tackle retailers and wholesalers. We look forward to hearing from you. Mel Bagnall mel@angling-international.com

Meet the makers of Angling International... MEL BAGNALL, PUBLISHING EDITOR Mel’s vast experience in the angling industry includes six years as the publisher of UK company Emap’s angling business. He began his career on Angling Times where he was reporter, feature writer, sub editor and news editor. He has worked in magazines for more than 39 years.

ANTHONY HAWKSWELL, ASSISTANT EDITOR Anthony is an experienced news editor with a strong background in angling journalism, having worked as News Editor on the UK’s leading angling weekly newspaper, Angling Times. His background also includes time spent editing a national business-to-business title in the UK.

ROB CARTER, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Rob began his career writing for and editing specialist consumer magazines in the UK (including Match football magazine, Fore! golf magazine and Trout Fisherman) before being appointed editor-in-chief of Emap’s contractpublishingdepartment.He is a founder director of Top Corner, the publishers of Angling International.

LUCIE HENTON, INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Lucie can call upon 11 years’ experience of delivering commercial solutions for angling clients. Czechborn, she is also familiar with other eastern European languages. Call her to discuss your advertising and marketing needs.

KEELY DOCHERTY-LEE, ART DIRECTOR As Top Corner’s art director and co-founder, Keely has 16 years’ design experience, and a proven record of producing successful ad campaigns, brochures and direct mail. She has worked with many angling clients and today leads the design team on Angling International, managing the editorial production of each issue.

STUART PAVLIK, US NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Stuart is based in North Palm Beach, Florida where he manages the accounts of Angling International’s US and Canadian clients. An avid ﬁsherman with advertising experience gained at Florida Sportsman, Stuart has a strong understanding of worldwide ﬁshing from his tenure at IGFA and from extensive travel.

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; Skype. lpetrickova • U.S. National Sales Manager: Stuart Pavlik; stuartpavlik@aol.com; Tel. 561-627-2520 direct; Skype. stuart.pavlik • Publishing editor: Mel Bagnall; mel@angling-international.com +44 (0)1733 392 977 • Assistant Editor: Anthony Hawkswell; anthony@angling-international.com • Editorial director: Rob Carter; rob@topcornered.co.uk • Art Director: Keely Docherty-Lee; keely@topcornered.co.uk • Designer: Kate Holt • Database Manager: Graham Goor; grahamgoor@atgraphicsuk.com • Subscription enquiries: enquiries@angling-international.com • Colour reproduction: AT Graphics UK Ltd, Peterborough •THANKS THIS ISSUE GO TO: Fernando Baracho Martinelli, Michael Cassidy, Clem Dippel, John Gromberg, Nathan Gromit, Beatriz Lopez, Tom Mackin, Jan Mertens, Sir Robin Miller, Mike Phillips, Andrej Popovic, Frederico Prato, Monica Sanchez, Patrick Sebile and Tony Wallace-Conte. ● Nopartofthismagazinemaybereproducedwithoutthepermissionofthepublisher.Themagazineassumesnoresponsibilityforthesafetyofcontributions,althoughallreasonablecarewillbetaken.

Angling International October 2011

COMMUNIQUÉ HOT DEAL FOR RAPALA I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S

Rapala USA President Tom Mackin: “Everyone is very excited by this move.”

Goldleaf Plastics President V. Joel Meyer is ‘thrilled’ at combining the strengths of the two companies.

apala USA has signed a manufacturing and distribution partnership for what its President, Tom Mackin, describes as the ‘hottest fishing accessory going’. The lure giant has entered into an agreement with Goldleaf Plastics to market and distribute a range of fish filleting boards and cutting accessories previously sold through its AP Outdoors brand. Under the deal, Goldleaf Plastics will make a range of products that will be sold exclusively under the Rapala brand. Mackin told Angling International: “Lightweight plastic fish cleaning stations and boards are the hottest accessory going in the US market today. “They are much more sanitary than the old wooden boards and are virtually perfect for every fishery in the world. Our US salesforce and customers are excited by this development – as are the guys across the globe. I have spoken to people in Australia, Russia, Scandinavia and Europe and they all share the same enthusiasm. “Rapala is already the market leader in ‘all

things fillet’. Our alliance with Goldleaf Plastics will take our position to an even higher level. We will be able to bundle existing knives, sharpeners, gloves, ‘how-tofillet’ educational materials and tools with cutting boards and tables.” Goldleaf Plastics President V. Joel Meyer said: “Rapala is an industry leader and its products are top of the line. We are thrilled to combine our engineering and manufacturing strengths with Rapala’s strong distribution network to provide anglers with an industryleading, all encompassing product offering.” Mackin said he was happy to find an American supplier from the same Minnesota state as Rapala. He admitted: “We looked at Asia for these products but at the end of the day Goldleaf ticked all the boxes. It is good

to support US manufacturing and it will also reduce our lead times from 120 days to around 30.” He added that Rapala is currently in the process of setting up a Foreign Trade Zone that will give the company special Customs procedures to facilitate export of the products worldwide. John Gromberg, Senior Manager at Goldleaf Plastics, said: “The initial product offering under the Rapala brand includes an exclusive line of cleaning boards, ﬁllet stations, rulers, rod-racks and multi-seats. “Goldleaf Plastics and Rapala will work hand-in-hand together to provide ﬁshermen with the highest quality product. As a need develops we will work closely to design and engineer new products to meet those needs.”

Tarpon Trust Symposium The fourth Boneﬁsh & Tarpon Trust International Symposium will be taking place on November 11 and 12 at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, Florida. The unique event includes presentations on the science behind the work of the Trust alongside seminars where

visitors will get the opportunity to meet and learn from the legends of the saltwater ﬂats. Organisers say that space is limited, but interested parties can register by logging on to the website at www.tarbone.org and then clicking on the 2011 BTT Symposium link.

Zebco Europe introduces high-end range of feeders Zebco Europe has added a high-end range of feeders to its product portfolio under the Browning brand. The German-based wholesaler and manufacturer has added the range of Method Feeders that are manufactured in the UK by Kobra. The Leicester-based company makes one speciﬁc design for each angling discipline, alongside a number of special long-distance models. Zebco Europe Marketing Manager Frerk Petersen said: “Browning has had a strong position in the feeder market for a long time so taking charge of the Kobra distribution in all of Europe was only a logical step to strengthen our own high quality range

Angling International October 2011

with additional highly sought-after special models. “Due to the short delivery time within Europe, we are able to supply immediately and we have good stock quantities of all selected models.” Petersen added: “Kobra Feeders are manufactured from highest quality components, such as brass tubes or hollow elastics, which gives them the higher price level. Experienced feeder anglers demand high quality and attention to detail and are therefore willing to pay a reasonable price for quality tackle. “Our new Browning-Hybrid Feeders ‘Made by Kobra’ offers attractive sales opportunities for the retail trade.”

COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S

China ‘still best for production’

New representative body formed in South Africa A new body that will work to safeguard the interests of all parties involved in recreational fishing in South Africa was launched at SAFTAD – the John Pledger is the acting country’s head of new recreational fishing body, SACRAA. annual trade show. The South African Consolidated Recreational Angling Association (SACRAA) has been formed by members of SAFTAD to represent all parties with a vested interest in the recreational fishing industry, encompassing angling organisations, retailers, wholesalers and government bodies. SAFTAD Chairman John Pledger will lead SACRAA until a meeting can

be held to elect a committee. SAFTAD Secretary Mary-Ann Hodgskin will be responsible for membership applications and administration of the new body. Organisers of SAFTAD say that a national strike in South Africa, which caused severe petrol shortages, had an adverse effect on the attendance at the show with a number of pre-registered visitors unable to attend. Despite that, visitor numbers were exactly the same as last year with 686 representatives from 272 companies making the trip to Johannesburg. The number of retail stores represented (242) was 2% down on 2010, but 11% up compared to 2009. More ﬁshing specialist stores attended – 110 compared to 107 in 2010. Major exhibitors included Rapala VMC SA, Kingﬁsher, Sensational Angling Supplies, Jarvis Walker, Apex Walker and Beyond Fishing.

“SACRAA will represent all parties with a vested interest in the country’s recreational ﬁshing industry.” 12

Angling International October 2011

ne of China’s biggest ﬁshing tackle manufacturers has defended its country’s position in the world market following stories of brands looking elsewhere for production. The Groupe Beaudoin International s.e.n.c. (Bisenc), a Canadian registered company with its factories in Beijing, says that emerging countries such as India, Vietnam and Indonesia will never be able to challenge China as the best place to source product. And referring to the warning from global economist Michael Colopy of increasing challenges presented by the likely change in China’s leadership (see Angling International September), Bisenc insists that China will long remain the preferred producer of sportﬁshing tackle. The company, which says it has close to 400 customers, also argues that in the current economy consumers are more motivated by price than by brand names. “Inside any country there are higher raw material costs and higher salaries. Seafreight, airfreight and insurance charges are also going up everywhere,” said President Frank Beaudoin. “But mainland China is still the most secure source of manufacturing. Brands must ask questions about places like Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, India and Taiwan. Is the government stable? Can you trust the banks? Are you prepared to pay in advance? “And why are businesses in these countries building factories inside China?” However, Mr Beaudoin urged brands to make sure they are working with h Government-owned Chinese companies. “US and worldwide ide companies working with Governmentowned corporations and factories in China are 100% fully guaranteed for quality control per each order and will

grow their businesses long-term. “Those customers who work with non-licensed trading companies and independent factories will not be successful.” Mr Beaudoin dismissed Mr Colopy’s suggestion that rising nationalism in China could have a huge impact on the US industry, saying that nationalism has always been present but that business principles had never been affected. Bisenc was established in 1985 and around 80% of its business is private label products for export. Spokesman Frank Diorio told Angling International that the number of independent factories in China is diminishing because they do not have the necessary financial backing, cannot guarantee production, have little quality control and cannot provide insurance for buyers and importers. “Modern technology in governmentowned factories is providing a better experience for buyers,” he added. “US and worldwide companies have two choices. Go forward on a win-win basis with these factories or move outside China, where they will agonize over many issues. “In today’s economic instability and turmoil, sportfishing companies, whether manufacturers, distributors or large chain stores, have no choice but to find the best long-term source of supply. That is where China comes in. “Consumers have less and less money to spend and they do not care about brand names any more. They want to buy a quality product at the lowest price.”

Below: Michael Colopy’s assertions on China in last month’s issue. la

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 participants are keeping angling aﬂoat in US, says report

ew participants are being attracted to fishing in the USA but the overall number of anglers is declining, according to the latest report released by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) and the Encouraged: RBFF President Outdoor Foundation. and CEO Frank Peterson. The 2011 Special Report on Fishing and Boating revealed that in 2010, 3.36 million people took part in fishing for the first time – an increase of 2% since 2008. “We are delighted to see the number of newcomers is increasing year on year,” said RBFF President and CEO, Frank Peterson. “The challenge lies in keeping people engaged in the sport. Eight million new or returning anglers participated last year, but more than ten million dropped out. This is where we need ongoing programmes that continue to engage them.” The number of anglers fishing in 2010 was down from 48 million in 2009 to 45.4 million last year. There were 925 million fishing trips in 2010 with anglers spending on average 20.4 days year fishing. The third annual report provides detailed information on boating and fishing participation by gender, age, ethnicity, income, education and geographical region. It was expanded in 2011 to look at the fishing ‘churn’ rate – drop outs – alongside potential for new fishing participants and the use of technology. Freshwater fishing dominates the angling disciplines with 38.9 million people – 13.7% of the total population – taking part. Saltwater had 27 million fewer participants. Each freshwater angler spent on average 17.1 days

Overall numbers are declining, admits the RBFF, but the rate is being slowed by newcomers taking up the sport, especially women, youngsters and Hispanics. Left: The crossover between the different types of ﬁshing enjoyed in the USA in 2010. Below: The number of annual outings made by anglers.

on the water and in all there were 663 million outings. Fly fishing is a male preserve, with men making up 78.9% of the 5.5 million anglers taking part. The average number of boat fishing outings also declined slightly with the total number of days on the water going down from 705 million in 2009 to 676 million last year. Participants spent an average of 13 days a year fishing. Most boat anglers went with friends (67.1%) and most outings were taken in freshwater (61.7%). Bass boats were the most popular boat type at 21%. One area where fishing numbers have been increasing is among the country’s Hispanic community with

Angling International October 2011

3.4 million anglers fishing last year compared to 2.1 million in 2007. Females and youths make up the highest proportion of new participants, representing a good long-term growth target. Youth fishing participation rates peak between the ages of six to 12 years, but decrease during adolescence. Peterson said: “While overall fishing participation is down from 2009, we are encouraged at the newcomer statistics and the growth among potential participants, including Hispanics, youth and women.” Technology is a growing influence on recreational fishing with more than half of anglers using a computer to search for information about outdoor recreation. More than 40% used mobile technology or the internet to plan outdoor activities. Geographically, the biggest concentration of fishing is in the South East’s seven seaside states where 18.4% of fishermen live.

COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S

Tubeology goes Latin

he relentless expansion of UK-based tube fishing specialist Tubeology continues apace with new distribution deals in Europe and South America. Following a successful IFTD show in New Orleans, the company has agreed a deal with Argentina’s largest fly fishing distributor, FP Distribution of Cordoba. Meanwhile, a meeting at EFTTEX, in Amsterdam, has led to a link-up with Spanish distributor Garper Fishing SL. The Valencia-based company will sell Tubeology products in Spain, Portugal and Andorra. The latest developments mean that the Tubeology now has partners in most key territories globally across the USA, Canada, Scandinavia, the Pacific Rim and Europe. Managing Director of FP Distribution, Federico Prato, said: “Argentina is one of the most important places in the world for fly fishing. The species are fished for mainly with streamers and Tubeology offers an incredible amount of alternatives to fish with the same fly. “The minute I saw Tubeology I knew it was just right for our waters.” Jorge Garcia Felipe of Garper Fishing said: “As soon

as we saw Tubeology we recognised the flexibility that this tube fishing system offers. It was immediately clear to us that it was a perfect fit for our catalogue.” Ann Kitchener, International Sales Director at Tubeology, added: “We are extremely pleased to sign agreements with FP Distribution and Garper Fishing. Both are highly respected and established companies in their marketplaces and we are looking forward to working alongside them.”

WORTH UPDATES ONLINE OFFERING

Above: Federico Prato of FP Distribution of Argentina is certain Tubeology will be a big success in his homeland.

Angling International October 2011

Product information, new online videos and a ‘ﬂipbook’ of its new 2011-2012 catalogue are just three of the features on the relaunched website from Worth, the lure components maker. The site also has a library of all the Stevens Point, Wisconsin, company’s ‘How To’ and ‘How They’re Made’ videos as well as other essential information. Log onto www.worthco.com to see for yourself.

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 Shimano line-up unveiled

dramatic facelift of its legendary Baitrunner LC Reel heads a formidable line-up of new and improved reels for 2012 from Shimano. As exclusively revealed on our website (www.anglinginternational.com) the iconic Chris de Haan has revealed an exciting new range. Baitrunner has been upgraded with the company’s latest technologies to make it fit for purpose for the rigours of 21st century fishing. But that major revamp is just the tip of the iceberg and has heralded a swathe of other developments. Last year Shimano introduced X-SHIP on its flagship Stella FE model. Designed to give a smoother retrieve even under a heavy load, it is now available on the new Biomaster FA – which replaces the Twin Power FC – and the Stradic FD. The company is also introducing a new Aernos FA to the top of its PA range. Shimano Product Developer, Chris de Haan, told Angling International: “It combines the best technology

and stunning cosmetics at an affordable price.” In its saltwater range, a Biomaster SW, suitable for heavy duty spinning and jigging, has also been unveiled by the company. de Haan said: “All the materials used are designed to cope with the harsh saltwater environment and it has many features that can be found on the Stella SW and Twin Power SW.” There has also been a number of big pit reel introductions, both with the Baitrunner Spool II (XT) and Instant Drag (XS). The Aero Technium MGS XSB, which won the Best Fixed Spool Reel award at EFTTEX in June, is Shimano’s ultra-high-end model for the season. de Haan added: “Our successful C14 material has been used to make an ultra-light Ultegra C14 XTA which is up to 110g lighter than the regular Ultegra.” Two new families of reels have been created at entry level – the Aerlex and Beastmaster XSA/XTA. They have the Aerowrap II oscillation system, giving

Left: The Aero Technium MGS XSB leads Shimano’s high-end model charge.

“The new Aernos FA combines the best technology and stunning cosmetics at an affordable price.” – Chris de Haan, Shimano Product Developer

ASA appoints show director

Kenneth G. Andres succeeds Maria del Valle Hamilton in the role.

Angling International October 2011

a perfect lay line and casting performance, says de Haan. Both ranges feature carp and surfcaster models and are distinguished by their cosmetics and drag type. A special Spod reel has been added to the Aerlex XTA family and boasts a high gear ratio for fast retrieve and a spool with multiple line clips. Three new electric reels have made an appearance – Dendou Maru 1000, 4000 and 9000. They are designed to fish the deepest waters. de Haan said: “There is quite a big market in Europe, although it is concentrated along the Mediterranean Sea. “We have developed new engines that are stronger and faster. A very fast retrieve means more actual fishing time and that can add up to an hour extra every day when fishing at 500m. “There are Power Pro reel fillers available in different breaking strains to fit all three.” All the new Shimano reels for the 2011/12 season are available in tackle shops now and are featured in the company’s 2012 catalogue.

The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) has appointed Kenneth G. Andres as the new Director of ICAST, the world’s biggest angling trade show. He succeeds Maria del Valle Hamilton who recently left the ASA after overseeing significant growth in the show over the past decade. A keen fisherman, Andres has been with the Association since 2007 and has been responsible for sales and exhibitor relations, sponsorship, logistics, vendor relations and general show production.

He also has previous trade show experience, working with Freeman and Tradeshow International Inc., and with Team One LLC, both based in Florida. ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman said: “Ken brings years of knowledge and experience, not only about ICAST but the entire trade show industry to this important position.” Andres said he planned to help increase education opportunities, support for and participation in the 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

International brands driving rapid expansion of Brazilian trade show

he Brazilian Sportfishing Trade Show is continuing to reflect the growth of the country’s domestic economy and attract the interest of foreign exporters. It has flourished to become the largest show of its kind in Latin America, with the latest event in Sao Paulo drawing over 5,500 trade visitors from the fishing and tourism industries. The manager of the show, Fernando Baracho Martinelli, said: “Brazil is a fast growing market and things are happening here quicker than anywhere else. This has been recognised by companies from right across the globe and I truly believe that the next three years will see the show expand further and achieve even greater success. “Companies from around the world are starting to realise the potential that 32 million Brazilian consumers with money in their pockets represent.”

Simon Henton, Group Marketing Manager of line manufacturer FirstDart, agrees. The company made its second appearance at the show and Henton said: “The event is developing an international dimension. It has expanded onto another ﬂoor and it was really good to see visitors from outside South America, including representatives from India and Australia.” Exhibitors, including Shimano, Coleman, Belmar (distributor for Penn, Shakespeare and Bagle), FlagShip (Abu Garcia and Plano), Alkalis (G.Loomis, PowerPro), and Marine Sports (Diawa) were among the 85 companies at the event – an increase of 28 from the previous year. The Best of the Year awards saw success for US kayak manufacturer Freedom Hawk. Represented by its Brazilian distributor, Lay Outdoors, the company won the Best of the Show award for its Freedom 12.

BRAZILIAN SPORTFISHING TRADE SHOW AWARDS 2011 The complete list of award winners at South America’s leading show. • National Lure Bokuda (Deconto, Brazil) • International Lure Trolling Lure (Scent Blazer, Australia) • Line YGK G-SOUL PE (Wakoku, Brazil) • Baitcaster Reel EXO (Quantum, Brazil) • Baitcaster Rod Lubina Black Widow (Marine Sports, Brazil) • Spinning Reel Stradic FJ (Shimano) • Spinning Rod Tikara (NS, Brazil) • Tools GEX Aluminium Pliers (Everquest, Brazil) • Apparel Ballyhoo Shirt (Ballyhoo, Brazil) • Watercraft and Dive Freedom Hawk 12 (Lay Outdoors, Brazil) • Best of Show Freedon Hawk 12 (Lay Outdoors, Brazil) Next year’s show will take place between August 8-10 at the Frei Caneca Convention Center, in Sao Paulo.

SERBIAN SHOW PREDICTING HUGE NUMBERS ONCE AGAIN More than 50,000 visitors make the annual Lorist International Fair of Hunting, Fishing and Sport in Serbia one of the biggesteventsofitskindineasternEurope. And another large crowd is expected at the 43rd show that will take place at the Novi Sad Fair between September 28 and October 3. Last year, ﬁshing enjoyed the second biggest representation behind hunting

Angling International October 2011

of all the sports at the show. Many top manufacturers showed off all their latest tackle developments. Visitors from across Europe attended last year’s event, including sizeable numbers from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Croatia, Macedonia, Slovenia and Egypt. The event is a combined trade and consumer show.

Shimano Australia celebrates triple success at AFTA Show

himano Australia picked up a hat-trick of awards at the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) Show on the country’s Gold Coast. The tackle giant – represented by Dunphy Sports Fishing Imports, of Taren Point, NSW – won Best Overall Stand, Best Rod and Best Fishing Accessory at the trade-only showpiece. The event attracted many major industry names including Shimano, Diawa, Rapala VMC, Halco, Jarvis Walker, Pure Fishing, Australian Monofil, JM Gillies, Basser Millyard, Frogley’s Offshore and EJ Todd. Colin Tannahill (right), General Manager Sales and Marketing of Dunphy Sports Fishing Imports, hailed the event as “the best show we have ever had”. He said: “We were flat out for the first two days. We released over 60 new reels, 130 new rod models and over 100 other items at the event. “Technology-wise, we introduced QR (Quick Response) Codes for all our new products which can be viewed on smart phones or through the internet via traditional computers. In advance of the show we also produced 39 one- to two-minute video clips highlighting our new products that can be seen on our YouTube channel. “This was virtually an industry first in Australia and was warmly welcomed by all retailers.” The full list of AFTA Show award winners was: • Best Overall Stand Shimano Australia • Best Large Stand/Display Rapala VMC Australia • Best Medium Stand/Display River2Sea • Best Rod G.Loomis GL2 8500 esp (Shimano) • Best Reel Abu Garcia Revo MGX (Pure Fishing) • Best Terminal Tackle Snap on Sinker Klik (Alvey) • Best Line Berkley NanoFil (Pure Fishing) • Best Soft Lure Eco Gear Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn (JML JML Trading) • Best Hard Lure 2 Deadly Killalure (Basser Millyard) • Best Tackle Management Plano 787 Guide Series T/Box (JM Gillies) • Best Boating Accessory and Electronics Nemo Underwater Camera (Viva) • Best Fishing Accessory AGR Pliers (Shimano Australia) • Best Kids Plano 100 piece tackle box (JM Gillies) • Best Clothing Accessories Big Fish Graphics (Big Fish Shirt) • Best Giftwear BBQ Set Marttiini Knives (Rapala VMC Australia)

GLOBAL SHOWS IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2011 BULGARIA Nasluka Hunting, Fishing, Sport Show Date: September 28-October 2 Venue: Expo Centre, Soﬁa Visitors: General public www.bulgarreklama.com Aimed at ﬁshing and hunting enthusiasts, this is the 18th show in the history of the twice-yearly exhibition. SERBIA Lorist

Date: September 28-October 2 Venue: Master Congress Centre, Novi Sad Visitors: Trade and consumer www.novisadexpo.com One of south-east Europe’s largest ﬁshing, hunting and sports shows.

UK Tackle & Guns Trade Show

Date: October 16-17 Venue: Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire Visitors: Trade www.tandgshow.com The hunting, shooting and ﬁshing show will be entering its 12th year.

AMERICA Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Date: October 27-31 Venue: Fort Lauderdale, Florida Visitors: Trade and consumer www.showmanagement.com Sportfishing boats, canoes and kayaks on display as well as fishing seminars from the International Game Fishing Association (IGFA) and kids’ fishing clinics. October 2011 Angling International

COMMUNIQUÉ I N S I G H T • A N A LY S I S • T R A D E N E W S

Belgian buying group steps up its search for more retail members

Belgian buying group is offering retail outlets the opportunity to join its ranks and take advantage of its purchasing power. Elite Wholesale Company, which is based in Ranst, just 13km from Antwerp, is looking for new members in three regions of Belgium – Turnhout, Essen/Kalmthout and Kortrijk. The group, which was established more than 25 years ago, was set up to offer selected retailers the chance to buy famous brands –including Hungarian bait company Carp Zoom – from across the world at favourable prices. It now also provides its members with a comprehensive own-brand range of products under the Elite Managing Director Erik De name which have been sourced Schepper has opportunities for retailers in three regions. directly from China and other countries across the globe, including Poland, where the company makes its own keepnets. Elite Managing Director Erik De Schepper told Angling

International that the group currently has 13 members which represent most of the major tackle dealers in Belgium. Historically, membership of Elite is split into regions of Belgium with each area having one retail member. However, De Schepper said that it is possible to have more than one member in a region subject to the agreement of the membership. Elite is also currently working alongside European Fishing Tackle (EFT), a group which provides a similar service to its members in Germany and Holland. He said: “EFT can help us get better prices on product ranges that they order in large quantities, but we do not need so many of and cannot order in sufﬁcient numbers direct from China. “An example of this is wagglers and lures. We do not order that many, but they are popular in Germany and Holland. EFT will add our requirements to their order and pass them on to us. Elite does likewise for EFT on other product ranges.” Retailers in Belgium wishing to know more about Elite membership can email the company at elite.ﬁshing@ skynet.be or call De Schepper on +32 3646 0426.

Guangzhou Fishing Fair expecting to double exhibitor numbers in 2012 Organisers of the 3rd Guangzhou International Fishing Fair are expecting more than double the number of exhibitors that attended last year’s event. Held in the city’s China Import and Export Fair Pazhou Complex from March 9 to 11, 2012, the show is preparing to accommodate 300 exhibitors, compared to 127 in 2011. Exhibitors will reportedly include Rapala, Shimano, Pure Fishing, Eagle Claw, Anatec, Gamakatsu and Gt-Bio. The show will incorporate the 2nd Global Lure Cultural Festival, to reﬂect the fastest-growing and most environmentally-friendly ﬁshing style in China, and the 2nd China International Casting Championships. In addition, a Top Ten Brands Selection will be introduced in 2012, with winners selected by visiting buyers. “We believe 2012 will see a new breakthrough in the scale of the exhibition, the number of exhibitors and the number

of buyers from both home and abroad,” said a spokesperson for the Fair. “We expect domestic visitor numbers to reach 10,000, up from 8,264 last year, plus another 400 from abroad, up from 262. “The Top Ten Brands Selection will encourage innovation among Chinese companies and will raise the proﬁle and

awareness of Chinese brands in the international industry. “The Fair is a good platform to help foreign enterprises develop business in China and for domestic companies to explore overseas markets.” Further information is available by email at info3@grandeurhk.com and by visiting www.guangzhou ﬁsh.com.

REPORT

Sub-par attendance: the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans (main image and insets right) attracted fewer buyers than organisers hoped.

IFTDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GAMBLE ON NEW ORLEANS PAYS OFF... BUT ONLY JUST

Issues remain to be resolved, but, as Mel Bagnall reports, there is still a strong undercurrent of support for a stand-alone IFTD show.

Angling International October 2011

REPORT

has been recently at this show. Without some means of enticing more dealers to come, I believe the industry would be best served by combining forces with the ASA and ICAST. I fear that Reno provides many of the same excuses to our dealers that were used in New Orleans –expensive, mid-August, ‘I’ll see everything when the rep comes by’ etc. These shows are a major expense that I feel should, and ultimately must, exhibit greater returns.”

larger cities, but maybe Portland would have been a better destination to draw people from other parts of the country. It also has a more coastal feel to it. July would be better timing for us. That would give us time to take orders by early September for a February delivery and March 1st sale. The industry needs a big show so buyers can see everything under one roof, but in some ways it is not as intimate as we would like. The idea of a smaller show shared with likeminded manufacturers who in some cases share the same reps could be appealing.”

Rick Heider President,

business. They have to somehow make it compelling for all dealers to attend. I don’t think that will happen during the season. Rumours are that the show ﬁts the schedule of the clothing business.”

Larry V. Notley President,

Pockit Sports “My expectations were not high, so things worked out. There could be more attendees, but in this economy, I understand. We took no orders. The price in the small business area allowed us to attend. Small businesses like mine have to watch every penny. I hope AFFTA do not raise the price.”

Angler Sport Group “It was no surprise the show was slow as there are very few customers in the area. However, as usual lots of business was conducted on the ﬂoor. Baltimore would have been a Why didn’t New Orleans better choice. It offers easy access, better attract more buyers? weather and it’s a nice town. Reno should The consensus is that the city be an improvement as it is in the west and just doesn’t have enough dealers should attract more dealers. The timing of in close enough proximity – and the show is wrong – the west is just starting that choosing a popular, fun and the east is in full bloom. A better time destination wasn’t compelling would be off-season. The show needs an enough. However, the fact that uplift. It should either be sold or merged the season started so late due with another show to stimulate cross-over to high water clearly persuaded some buyers that their best option was to stay home and do business.

What next for AFFTA and the IFTD show?

John Land Le Coq Co-Founder, Fishpond

“It was a good show for connecting with people that we would not normally see, particularly international contacts. There has been more of a saltwater component this year and I’m really glad we came to New Orleans. We will be in Reno next year although I would have preferred Portland. Reno will not necessarily be perceived as expensive compared to other

Angling International October 2011

may cause the AFFTA Board to look at other options.

So is Reno a good choice? Reaction has been reasonably positive, with most people agreeing that it is better location than New Orleans. It has a better catchment area for dealers and also meets entertainment and fishing criteria. Ultimately, AFFTA’s success in attracting significantly more dealers than New Orleans will be the measure Is IFTD in a stronger or weaker by which it is judged. position after New Orleans? After a sound start in 2011, AFFTA Will the show ever return to needed to maintain its forward Denver? momentum. It will be disappoint- Almost certainly, but not for a ed that New Orleans fell short of while. Show Director Randi Swishthat mark, but encouraged that er insists the event’s traditional a strong undercurrent of suphome remains in contention and port remains for the show. The it could be the next west coast manufacturing influencers are destination. The concentration of currently still behind the show dealers in Colorado must surely and some have already booked be a key factor. for next year. But IFTD will need to deliver in Reno! Is the timing of the show likely to change? Is IFTD likely to join forces Current dates are not written in with another show? stone because timing is a more There is a growing lobby for the contentious issue than location. show to join forces with ICAST. It’s no secret that the soft goods It is not an option favoured by companies would prefer an even AFFTA, which fears the fly sector earlier show. However, others are may lose its identity and that the lobbying for a later date, while more conservative nature of fly some are happy with August/ fishing doesn’t fit with ICAST. De- September. One thing’s for sure – spite that, it remains a possibilAFFTA will never please everyone ity. Simms exhibited at ICAST this on the timing. It’s a classic year and had a fantastic show. no-win situation and the Board Much will depend on exhibitor must decide whose support it reaction to Reno. Poor bookings needs most.

Angling International October 2011

ELECTRONICS REPORT

WHAT NEXT IN ELECTRONICS? H

The electronics sector is growing and has seen a number of advances in recent years. Here, some of its key players explain n how their products are taking the market to the next level.

Flajzar’s quick response rewarded

lajzar was established in 1994 by Tomas Flajzar, who is the sole owner and head of its R&D division. The company offers visitors a warm welcome to its home in the region close to the historical town of Straznice in the Czech Republic. Located between the meandering Morava River and the White Carpathians, it is distinguished by its folk songs, customs and architecture. It is also famous for its high quality wine from grapes grown on the White Carpathian slopes. When it started up in business, the company took quick advantage of the lack of competition in the Czech market. International Business Development Manager Tomas Hrachovsky says: “There were some brands which were imported – or even made in the Czech Republic – but most of them were riddled with mistakes. The makers did not concentrate on some features that are very important today – including things like humidity resistance and battery life.” He adds: “Moreover, China did not know such

products existed at that time and it was as not interested in making them.” As a result Flajzar began building its reputation very quickly and it would soon conclude its first contracts with wholesalers in the Czech and Slovak Republics. Today, the Flajzar brand and its Fishtron trademark are well known among anglers in Central Europe. It has even found its way to markets outside of Europe. Hrachovsky says: “The newest Fishtron Q9 bite indicator has been espepecially successful on the global market. The design of the alarm has played an important rtant role in its success, as has its reliability and versatility. That’s why the new sets consisting of Fishtron Q9 and Q-Rx2 receiver have won thousands of customers during a very short period of time. “We monitor the trends in the field of angling accessories and electronics, which allows us to develop products with timeless functions. Our company covers all the activities necessary for a new product to come into being – design, software development, design of electronics, production, packaging and dispatch – so we can respond flexibly to every requirement of the market. “Because we control the entire chain of all activities, we are able to adapt the properties of our products to the wishes of our wholesale partners.

From top: The Q9 bite indicator, Q-Rx2 rece receiver and Fishtron so solar bite indicator. Bo Bottom left: The countryside around Straznice.

“It is common that the period between the idea and the prototype – design of electronics, software, design, and 3-D elec model including surface treatment – can mode take jjust a few days.” Flajzar has also introduced the Fishtron Flajza solar bite indicators – the ﬁrst models on the market ind that utilise solar sol power. The indicator is equipped with a Li-Ion accumulator continuously recharged by sunlight. nlight It can also be boosted by connecting it to the mains or to a socket in a vehicle. For 2012 the company is planning other innovations to its models that include very simple and intuitive controls, high acoustic output and the long reach of a Tx transmitter. Before being introduced to the market, all of the company’s products undergo tests in accredited laboratories and bear the CE marking.

C O N TA CT

T: +420 511 19 1201 E: sales@flajzar.cz W: www.flajzar.cz or www.fishtron.eu

Jabo steps up search for distributors Chinese-based Jabo Electrical Fishing Gear is looking for distributors for its range of remote control bait boats and ﬁsh ﬁnders. The company already exports to countries in Europe, including the UK, Germany and Poland, and is keen to drive sales in other markets. One of its most popular models is the Jabo-2D – an updated version of the 2B. It has a catamarantype hull structure that helps stabilise the vessel during sailing. Capable of carrying 1.5kg of bait, it is powered by a 6v rechargeable battery that can work

continuously for two hours when fully charged. It travels at 1.5m a second and the remote control operates up to a distance of 200m. It comes with a solar fish finder device that works between depths of 1m and 32m. There are two other bait boat fish C O N TA CT finder products in the company’s T: +86-432-62488334 portfolio – the Jabo-1 and Jabo-3 – E: zhyk@zhyk.com.cn to provide a model for most fishing W: www.szjabo.cn or www.zhyk.com.cn environments. October 2011 Angling International

> 29

> ELECTRONICS REPORT

Sema attracting sales

ema launched its revolutionary Rollo bite alarm to critical acclaim at EFTTEX in Amsterdam earlier this year. The brainchild of Sema Product Manager Tomas Andel, the idea was to have an indicator in one single unit rather than two. Company owner Petr Minarik says: “It is not a new idea, but Sema is the ﬁrst to bring a functioning product to the market. t. “Tomas started to think about the Rollo ﬁve years ago, but it was as

not until three years later that we had the ﬁrst prototype. After that – during consultation and trials with ﬁshermen – we knew we had something special.” The unique device combines a leveraction bite indicator and an electronic bite alarm in one unit. Incorporated in the Rollo is a new drop-off device that does not use any moving parts, springs or any other items that need to be

loaded to activate the release. Instead, the new system uses the change in ‘geometry’ during the strike to ensure that the line detaches cleanly from the line clips without resistance, damage or risk. The Rollo has a five-button control panel with LED display to access the quick user-friendly menu. All settings are stored to the memory even after it has been turned off. Minarik says that following the success of the original Rollo, work is already underway to develop other bite alarm products based on the patented system. He added: “We are developing modifications and will introduce spins-offs on the theme. “In the first half of next year we will launch a simple mechanical indicator with our drop-off system and by the end of 2012 we intend to unveil lower specification levels of the Rollo. “The major development will come in 2013 when a completely new Rollo 2 will hit the market.”

C O N TA CT

Main image and inset: The innovative Sema Rollo incorporates a lever-action bite indicator and an electronic bite alarm in one unit.

T: + 420 777 78911 E: minarik@sema.cz W: www.sema.cz or www.rollo.sema.cz

JRC puts faith in Radar package

JRC is so conﬁdent in its new Radar DSi alarm and Radar DSr receiver that they both come with an unlimited twoyear warranty which can be extended online by a further 12 months. Jan Mertens, Pure Fishing’s Global Brand Manager JRC, told Angling International: “The alarm and receiver have not only been designed and developed in Europe, but also manufactured here. All the parts – even the housing – are made in Europe to guarantee quality.” All the alarms are individually available in red, green, yellow and blue and there is a single receiver with four colours. JRC also has a set of three blue alarms with an all blue receiver and a set of four all blue alarms with a receiver. These sets come supplied in a black EVA protective case. Features of the Radar DSi include: ● Sensitivity control. The line movement picked up by the rollerwheel can be set from very sensitive (4mm) up to not sensitive (15cm).

● Tone and volume control. ● Mute option when adjusting a hanger. ● Multi-function visual indication consisting of LEDs. ● Two power out sockets. ● Extended battery life. ● Fully encapsulated electronics. ● Nightlight. ● Soft protective case. ● Non-slip rod rests. ● 2x 1.5v LR1 batteries included. ● Low battery warning. ● Range up to 1,000m. ● Easy pairing with receiver. The Radar DSr receiver runs on a AAA 1.5v battery (included) and a lanyard is also provided. The LED bivvy light in the receiver can be automatically set to switch on when you receive a take. It also has a low battery warning and vibration function. All the JRC alarms are made in corporation with electronics specialist Flajzar, which has manufactured the seven new products in the Radar range.

C O N TA CT

T: +33 45 09 67 700 E: contact@frpureﬁshing.com W: www.jrc-ﬁshing.co.uk

SPECIAL FE ATURE

COMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT...

Patrick Sébile: how my newest creations catch ﬁsh Patrick Sébile talks exclusively to Angling International this month about his two major projects of the year – the development of the award-winning D&S Crankbait and the highly acclaimed Swimbait Rig.

y inspiration is driven by need itself. For the D&S Crank I wanted to get a crankbait into the deep while limiting the risk of getting it snagged on the bottom. It is a fact that many predators react extremely well to deep crankbaits. However, the deeper the crankbait goes, the less the angler knows how snaggy it is on the bed and how to avoid those snags. So I put together a bait that included a round shape; a wide and long bill; a V-shape cutting view body; and a ﬂat tail. The result is a lure that goes really deep – up to 34ft deep for the 70mm lure.

That is pretty much unheard of for a bait of its size and category. However I didn’t want to just add the lure to a treble hook. The more hook points you have, the bigger risk you run of encountering snags. I was looking to use the benefits of a single, wide gap hook to lower the risk of snagging by having the hook point up. It would also grab the mouth of the fish better. And, instead of having a fixed single hook, which has its own limits because it can leverage with the bait when the fish shakes it head – increasing the chance of losing it – I made it collapsible by utilising

the cheapest and most constant energy source on the planet – the earth’s gravity. Thanks to that, while the lure is running the hook stays down with the point hidden behind the end of the tail. This helps the bait go through the various structures underwater without the hook snagging. When the fish bites, the angler pulls on the rod, the hook goes up, and the point hooks into the jaw of the fish. Under the pressure from the line, the hook goes back down ensuring that once a fish is hooked the lure perfectly holds the fish on. That is a big benefit for anglers

“When the ﬁsh bites, the angler pulls on the rod, the hook goes up, and the point hooks into the ﬁsh’s jaw.” 32

Angling International October 2011

HOW IS OLD GHOST CHANGING CARP BAIT? See p34

because compact deep divers are typically baits that suffer from a high percentage of lost fish during the fight. It is perfect when you have a predator with a soft mouth – like perch, sea bass and bass – or for the leapers who are used to getting free by shaking their head as in the case of pike. I am pretty proud of the bait because it brings a lot to the angler – even from a safety point of view when you grab the fish at the end of a fight. There’s no risk that a dangling hook can hook you. The release is also made easy – you just have to push the hook up and backwards. It is simple, efficient and convenient! The product was introduced to great acclaim at EFTTEX and Salon Européen Des Pêches En Mer, in Nantes, where it won two awards (Best Hard Lure and Most Innovative Product). It was also recognised in the Product Showcase at ICAST 2011 where it was crowned the Best Hard Lure. My other project this year was the development of a new swimbait rig. I was looking for a rig that can be used with swimbaits and other soft plastics – like grubs, shads, curly tails, worms, slugs – to utilise the benefits of a soft plastic, but to include the great coverage of the shape and a high hooking ratio that an open wide gap hook with a treble hook under the belly offers. Also, I wanted the bait to be able to modify and adjust its weight to change balance and dive curve. This was made possible by having a fixed weight in front of the rig and adding one or more of the award-winning Soft Weight Systems on the back of the hook shank.

“The swimbait rig is perfect when it is used with deadbaits. It is a technique I grew up with and is perfect for pike.” By doing this you can change within seconds the way your bait will swim and sink, which will make the difference in whether a predator ﬁsh will bite or not. The swimbait rig is perfect when it is used with deadbaits. It is a technique I grew up with and is perfect for pike. It is my way of bringing such a unique but very

simple rig to benefit most spinning and casting anglers. I like to fish it when I don’t need to hide my hook point into the plastic while fishing in heavy cover. There are also plenty of instances where the soft plastic lure or a natural deadbait can be used in open or clear water.

Want to talk to Sébile? Here’s how to ﬁnd them...

Above: Patrick Sébile with another successful catch on his swimbait rig. “My inspiration is driven by need,” he says.

Tel: +33 45 09 67 700 Email: Infos-Export@pureﬁshing.com Web: www.sebile.com October 2011 Angling International

SPECIAL FE ATURE

COMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT...

Old Ghost: we have the answers to the carp sector’s biggest problems

The Chinese giant believes it has identiﬁed two major needs in the European carp market – and developed the perfect products to meet them.

n the 12 months since Old Ghost announced its intention to enter the European bait market, its products have aroused huge interest among buyers and competitors alike – not least at EFTTEX in July where it stunned the industry by winning the Best New Hookbait Award.

Above: The Old Ghost team, with owner Yi Zhe second right, celebrate victory at the EFTTEX Awards in Amsterdam.

All along the key question has been, how in such a crowded market can Old Ghost differentiate its baits? Few doubt the company’s credentials or the skills of its owner and chief product developer Yi Zhe. But the questions remain: what needs has Old Ghost identiﬁed in the European bait market – and how will its baits meet those needs? Now, as the launch date for its ﬁrst baits draws nearer, Old Ghost is ready to share its conclusions about Europe and also the philosophy that has driven the creation of two of its key products.

1. European carp are too aware of traditional boilies Explains Yi Zhe: “After four years of research into ﬁshing in Europe, we found that almost all 34

Angling International October 2011

European anglers release carp after catching them. In professional ﬁsheries especially, hundreds of carp are caught and released dozens of times, year after year and day after day. “As a result, these carp have become more and more alert to the traditional hard, single-layered boilies that anglers use to attract them. If they are not very hungry, they simply will not strike these hard balls. So even when there are many carp in a professional ﬁshery, it is not unusual for an angler to catch nothing.”

WHAT DOES STRIKE PRO HAVE PLANNED NEXT? See page 39

Old Ghost believes it has solved the problem of ever more wary carp. Its research has found that carp are not so wary of baits made with natural food flavours such as mussel, snail, shrimp and algae. Adds Yi Zhe: “We conducted experiments in our underwater monitoring centre. In those experiments we threw a certain amount of traditional boilies as well as some of our double-layered boilies into the water. The double-layered boilies were coated with green algae. We found that the carp loved the double-layered boilies but had little interest in the single-layered ones. They continuously fed on the double-layered boilies and ate far fewer of the single-layered ones.” Old Ghost makes its double-layered boilies by first making traditional single-layered ones. Then, via a special technique, adds a second layer of natural food of the type favoured by carp. This outer layer – whether it be green algae, snail, mussel or shrimp – continuously releases a natural aroma which attracts the fish without making them suspicious. “We believe that the development of these products will definitely increase the catches of carp fishing anglers in Europe,” adds Yi Zhe.

2. Live baits don’t target the right ﬁsh

Old Ghost believes it has identified three advantages that its artificially produced baits have over live baits. Says Yi Zhe: “About ten years ago, live baits like bloodworm, maggot and earthworm were comprehensively used in fishing in China. These live baits

ar effective for most species, are but, sometimes, that’s not bu what you want. For example, in some fishing spots, there are lots of species of different sizes. If you use a natural live bait, you can end up catching any fish of any species and any size. This isn’t helpful if you want to catch a specific species. “But you can resolve this problem by using artificial baits with certain flavours that you know your target species is particularly attracted to. “In addition, while natural live baits are very effective when the weather is cold or the fish are inactive, artificial baits are more effective when it’s hot and the fish are actively feeding. “And then there’s the storage of the live baits, which can also be a big problem. What’s more they can carry harmful bacteria, which are dangerous to anglers’ health. Besides, some anglers just don’t like the soft-body worms.” Fresh-keeping Hookbait Sausage, the winner of the Best New Hookbait Award at EFTTEX 2011, resolves all the problems associated with live baits, says Old Ghost. Firstly, the bait comes in a range of four different flavours aimed at different target species: Sweetcorn, which is very effective when fishing for grass carp and bream; Snail Carp, which has been especially developed for carp; Bloodworm, which is excellent for fishing bream, roach and catfish; and Squid Carp, which, says Old Ghost, is fantastic for carp and catfish. In addition, says Old Ghost, Fresh-keeping Hook-

Above: The award-winning Fresh-keeping Hookbait Sausage is easy to prepare and rig, says Old Ghost – which is one of its key advantages over live bait. “Just cut it into small pieces and attach it to the hook and it’s ready for ﬁshing,” says owner and chief product developer Yi Zhe.

bait Sausages are very convenient to use. “According to the size of your hook and your target ﬁsh,” it says, “just cut the sausages into small pieces, then attached one piece of it to the hook as a hair rig or side rig, and it’s ready for ﬁshing.” Thirdly, Fresh-keeping Hookbait Sausage is very clean and hygienic. Says Yi Zhe: “With Doubled-layered Boilies and Fresh-keeping Hookbait Sausage, the European carp market can see that the core of Old Ghost’s philosophy is innovation. “Innovation is what made Old Ghost what it is in China today and will make its reputation in Europe in the future.”

Want to talk to Old Ghost? Here’s how to ﬁnd them...

Tel: +86 27 8756 1355 Email: sales@lg918.cn Web: www.oldghostbait.com October 2011 Angling International

BESTNEW PRODUCTAWARD

ST N E W

STRIKE PRO TWIN MINNOW

WINNER

BEST NEW HARD LURE

RD LUR

STRIKE PRO TO STRENGTHEN ITS LURE PORTFOLIO “We are determined to bring more innovative ideas to the market,” says Michael Tsai after victory for the new Twin Minnow at EFTTEX.

hen it comes to winning awards at EFTTEX, there seems to be no stopping Strike Pro. The company picked up the braided line and soft lure awards at the 2010 event in Valencia, Spain, and followed it up this year in Amsterdam with the hard lure prize. And Strike Pro says its successes at EFTTEX only serve to galvanise its resolve to set its sights even higher. Proud Strike Pro founder and President Michael Tsai says that winning the ﬁercely contested hard lure category was the highlight of EFTTEX 2011 for the company. He told Angling International: “Winning the award was very important for Strike Pro. It makes us determined to work harder and to create and develop new lures and bring more innovative ideas to the market. It is a great motivator for us.” Based in Changhua City, Taiwan, Strike Pro started in 1973 as a producer of jigs and spinners before branching out into hard lures, original wooden lures and spinner baits in the 1990s. Since then it has become a benchmark for lure quality with a portfolio of over 500 different models in 4,000 colours. Tsai is the inspiration behind many of the company’s lure designs and is the creator of the award-winning Twin Minnow. It has been made speciﬁcally for superior casting and to

imitate small baitfish or a school of baitfish. The unusual shape is said to help casting disstance and it boasts a “magnificent” swimming action that attracts both fresh and saltwater fish.. It comes in three sizes: Twin Minnow A, 10cm/6.5g; Twin Minnow B, 10cm/7.2g, and Twin Minnow AB, 10cm/7.3g. Another product from the Strike Pro stable that has been receiving rave reviews is its new Wolf Tail, a lure developed by the Swedish lure builder, Anders ‘Wolfcreek’ Ulvforsen. It has a gentle rolling action with an added teasing movement from a soft plastic tail. Strike Pro says that the bait can be cranked slowly or fast – and fish cannot resist its deadly action. The Wolf Tail also has a patented screw link for easy change of damaged plastic tails. Equipped with Owner ST-36 2/0 hooks, it measures 23cm with its tail. Also new to the Strike Pro collection is the Salmonoid Minnow, a lipless model described by the manufacturer as the most lifelike lure ever produced. Strike Pro says it is perfectly balanced, with rubber fins and tail, lifelike eyes, internal sonic rattle and a double-jointed action. The minnow sets a “new benchmark” in lure technology, it adds. It is 15m long and weighs 43g.

Above: Strike Pro founder and President Michael Tsai and Claire Lin from Strike Pro’s sales team with the Best New Hard Lure Award at EFTTEX in Amsterdam.

Above: The new Wolf Tail lure has been winning praise and leads the next generation of Strike Pro lures behind the award-winning Twin Minnow (below).

C O N TA CT

T: +46 876 10600 E: lc@strikepro.se W: www.strikepro.eu October 2011 Angling International

BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARD W H AT N E X T F O R T H E 2 011 AWA R D W I N N N E R S

VISITORS’ CHOICE

Below left: Eumer Export Director, Olli Ojamo, at the EFTTEX Gala Dinner and, below right, with his brother, Jaakko.

EUMER SPINTUBE

ITOR

’

SPINTUBE’S WIN SEALS PERFECT EFTTEX FOR HARD WORKING EUMER The company is already capitalising on its success with a

WINNER C

H OICE

multi-media marketingg campaign, p g explains Olli Ojamo.

large photograph of the EFFTEX Visitor’s Choice Award proudly adorns the opening page on the Eumer Finland Oy website. The Finnish company is rightly proud of the achievement of its new SpinTube in Amsterdam and is fully aware of its marketing potential. Export Director Olli Ojamo told Angling 40

Angling International October 2011

International: “We have publicised the award at every opportunity – in the media, on the website and on Facebook. It is a really positive way of marketing our business. It certainly makes selling the SpinTube easier when you point out it was the people’s choice at EFTTEX.” “The award is a big thing for us. We are a young company and this has given us so much more energy and belief in ourselves. “It has provided us with national radio and television coverage in Finland and global exposure in magazines. The SpinTube brand has been enhanced and wholesalers around the world now know that it is a genuine article and not something that has been copied. “We were so happy that two young Finland boys could end up being applauded in front of the fishing world and getting an EFTTEX award.” Since being founded in 2007 by brothers Olli and Jaakko Ojamo, Eumer Finland Oy has established itself as the country’s biggest manufacturer of tube flies and tube fly components. It started out making tube flies for fly fishermen and has since added weighted tube flies for spinning. The award-winning SpinTube has taken four years of testing involving at least 100 days each year on the water. Olli Ojamo added: “If you want to create a great new product you have to test it for a very long time. We did not want to copy any other products. We wanted to do it our own way and develop something that was new, cool and innovative. Retailers and wholesalers are

always looking for new items and new original products – now they have the SpinTube. “My brother and I have been fly and spin fishing for 18 years and we wanted to put the two disciplines together.” Ojamo said that winning the Visitors’ Choice Award was the icing on the cake at a very successful EFTTEX. He added: “We worked hard to make the exhibition happen for us. “In the three months leading up to the event we continually booked appointments and that meant we were busy all the time. “There is no point attending these shows and waiting for people to come to your booth. You have to be pro-active and our approach paid off for us.” Eumer now exports to over 20 countries. The newly-launched SpinTubes are designed to fish for many different species, including zander, perch, bass and pike. There are five different models and many different sizes and colours. They are available in Europe and will soon be available in America and Japan.

C O N TA CT

T: +358 40 9620364 E: olli.ojamo@eumer.com W: www.eumertube.com

HOW IS EXTREME FISHING WIDENING ITS OFFERING? See p42

COMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT...

AMERICAN TACKLE’S GUIDE SHOWCASE The US specialist is proving its versatility with a list of strong, lightweight guides for any occasion – together with a promise of swift delivery.

merican Tackle says that whether you are a product manager for a large corporation or a custom rod builder needing a guide for the lightest of fly rods or the heaviest of offshore tuna rods, it has a guide for you. The company’s ‘almost weightless’ Titan frames in its Casting range are found on some of the finest rods in the world, including both the Orvis Helios and Scott’s S4 flagship fly rods. The titanium frames are so light and strong that American Tackle says they defy all expectations. The 316ss frames are so powerful because almost half of the material needed in older designs has been removed. The Casting series’ ‘big brother’, the Typhoon, combines all those features, but also includes a heavier gauge 316ss or titanium frame for weightier freshwater and saltwater applications. They also come in 25mm, 30mm and 40mm for use with large spinning reels. The Concept style guide train allows the rod designer to utilise the 8mm-20mm for casting/ conventional use or combine them with the 25mm, 30mm and 40mm for larger spinning rods. The beefy Virtus guide series – Latin for excellence – are offered in two models. The Virtus Lite is for heavy inshore or offshore saltwater rods from 20lb to 40lb, while the Virtus Heavy is a 50lb to 80lb ‘beast’ of a guide for blue water fishing of any kind. The company has also revealed the secrets behind its Quad Leg Ring Lock design which is utilised in all of the four guide ranges. It reduces ring popping lateral twist and also adds structural integrity which lessens twisting that can dislodge guide rings. The Ring Lock design will protect the ring, securing it in place by using its greater frame-to-ring surface contact to provide more protection as well as a larger epoxy reservoir for bonding. Shorter feet are used to lessen weight and create a smaller footprint. This reduces thread, epoxy and the overall length of the guide which can inhibit the natural performance of the blank. All four guides feature a beefed up Duralite or

NanoLite ring especially designed for heavier applications with rounded IDs and ‘unsurpassed’ strength and hardness that will handle any of the braids on the market today. They are featured on the US-made Seeker Hercules rods – some of the ﬁnest saltwater rods in the world, says American Tackle. All four of the guides are offered in a chrome and black chrome-plated 316ss for less weight, extra strength and corrosion protection. The Casting and Typhoo ranges also feature TICH or Holographic frames with NanoPlasma rings in silver, holographic, blue and gold. All the guides are also available in a solid titanium alloy that is corrosion proof and said to be 64% lighter than its SS counterparts. American Tackle’s Own DuraLite and Nanolite

rings are used in all four styles to provide the best in hardness and durability. They are diamond-polished smooth and among the hardest ceramics available. Their strength allows an elimination material resulting in a reduction of weight without sacriﬁcing durability. The hardness and low co-efﬁcient of friction means that they will endure all the punishment of today’s modern braids and super lines and prolong line life. American Tackle adds that they are ‘surprisingly’ priced and offered with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defect. The company can ship them from its Korean factory directly to China in only 30 days.

Above and right (left to right): The Casting, Typhoon, Virtus Light and Virtus Heavy guides from American Tackle.

Want to talk to American Tackle? Here’s how to ﬁnd them...

Tel: +1 888 516 1750 (Toll free) or +1 508 957 2164 Email: joe@americantackle.us Web: www.americantackle.us October 2011 Angling International

SPECIAL FE ATURE

COMPANIES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT...

EXTREME FISHING DIVIDES ITS LURE RANGE FOR WIDER APPEAL

By creating three separate ﬁnishes, owner Vitaly Pchelnikov is planning to sell his top quality lures to newcomers, regular anglers and elite ﬁshermen – all attracted by a brand promising high performance.

ll anglers can own a high performance lure, no matter what standard of fishing they aspire to. That’s the message from Extreme Fishing, which has devised a marketing strategy to capitalise on the growing reputation of its top-of-the-range Addiction lures so that sales increase among committed anglers and those using advanced techniques. Owner Vitaly Pchelnikov has divided his products into three groups: Addiction lures for elite anglers, Obsession lures for advanced anglers and Passion lures for committed anglers. The lures all have the same shape and functionality. Where they differ is in the finishing (see panel) and – to ensure they are clearly identified on the shelves – in the packaging. The inspiration for the strategy comes from outside angling, says Pchelnikov. “I liken it to owning a Mercedes car,” he explains. “Whatever model you choose, the cosmetics may be different but the engine is always world-class. Even if you buy a car for everyday use, you can be sure it will perform brilliantly. It’s the same with our lures. The brand always delivers.” After making a big impact with its lures, Extreme Fishing is intent on adding new product lines in the spinning sector. It will bringing a new family of rods to market in 2012. The three-tier marketing strategy will be rolled out into these product ranges too, says Pchelnikov. There will be Addiction, Obsession and Passion rods too. “The aim is to use the same divisions across all our products. The tackle will suit the angler’s experience and budget, but he will also know he has the very best performing products in his hands.” Most of the new product focus will be driven by Extreme Fishing’s domestic market in Russia, although Pchelnikov is confident all his ranges will have pan-European appeal. “I am sure they will transfer successfully to other European territories as the brand’s reputation grows,” he added.

Advanced coating for a more realistic ﬁnish

Prestige lures for elite anglers

Finish: Silver, gold or black nickel plating depending on the model. Hooks: Japanese Daiichi hooks. Packaging: Red accent colour.

Performance lures for regular anglers

Finish: Mostly painted, brass or nickel elements. Hooks: Mustad. Packaging: Grey.

High quality lures ures for entry level anglers Finish: Simple one ne or two-coloured patterns. Hooks: Mustad. Packaging: White. ite.

Angling International October 2011

Want to talk to W Extreme E Fishing?

Tel: +7 499 707 7517; +7 926 214 8080 Email: extremeﬁshing@gmail.com Website: www.extremeﬁshing.ru

EFTTA TRADING WITH

The voice of the European Tackle Trade

Japan’s Sunline signs up to the EFTTA Line Charter

ne of Japan’s top ﬁshing line manufacturers has joined EFTTA’s campaign against cheats. Sunline – which was founded in 1977 and is the major supplier to its domestic market – has signed up to EFTTA’s Line Charter which is designed to end the practice of wrongly labelled line packaging. The company’s Hiroshi Togi said: “Sunline has always been uncompromising in its pursuit of the highest quality in ﬁshing lines. “It has led the industry in displaying line strength on all its products. We believe this is the least a manu-

facturer can do to be accountable to the consumer in terms of quality assurance. In practical terms line strength is also the single most important piece of information for product selection. “Fishing professionals and enthusiasts in Japan have come to place their complete trust in our absolute honesty, technological expertise and wide selection of quality lines.” Sunline is based in Yamaguchi in the west of Japan and manufactures lines for all types of ﬁshing. It currently exports to more than 40 countries worldwide. Togi believes that all line makers should put their

weight behind the Line Charter. He said: “Most fishermen believe what they read on the label so if they pick up wrongly labelled products it creates mistrust. “Sunline strives to broaden the possibilities for anglers by offering a wide range of lines to meet every kind of fishing method for all species of fish. As a result it is the top brand in Japan with dominance in a number of other markets through the world.”

USAPPARELCOMPANYGLACIEROUTDOORBECOMESEFTTAMEMBER NEW MEMBER

EFTTA’s latest recruit from the USA is the creator of the original neoprene ﬁshing glove.

Glacier Outdoor, the company behind the Glacier Glove brand, started life 28 years ago in Reno, Nevada. Under Glacier Glove, it created the original neoprene ﬁshing glove and quickly developed the product to include hunting and sun gloves. The line has grown to include many accessories, including packs, hats and cycling products. The company says that its success is rooted in a strong belief in quality, adding that its products are often imitated but never duplicated. “We create and develop our products to give ﬁshermen the best dexterity possible, while protecting them from the elements,” it says. “A blend of quality and dexterity is what has driven the Glacier Glove brand and will continue to be our focus for the future.” Glacier Glove adds: “We have a proprietary blind stitch method and glue that allows us to produce thinner gloves with softer-feeling seams. The glue and stitch, along with premium materials, sets our neoprene products apart from the competition. We independently test all our sun

products for verification of our UVF ratings.” PRODUCTS FOR 2011: Glacier Glove currently has more than 50 products in its portfolio including a new patterned sun glove and a completely redesigned sun hood. Of the latter the company says: “The testing results from different guides has been fantastic.” There is also a newly designed winter hood with a fleece that has high breathability and warmth. And finally, it has an ultra-light glove series for mild days. PLANS FOR GROWTH: Domestically, Glacier intends to increase product distribution by continuing to grow its representative network. “The development of new and exciting products is also key,” it says. The company reports encouraging growth in the fly fishing market and in 2012 plans to pursue the bass fishing sector as well as continuing to expand its growing Sun Protection offering. Internationally, Glacier has hired a representative in Austria to handle sales in Europe. It plans to increase

its presence and continue to drive the brand and all it represents. Glacier adds: “We feel our products have a lot to offer fishermen internationally as well as in the US.” HOW EFTTA MEMBERSHIP WILL HELP: The company has joined EFTTA to ensure its key brand and products are placed in front of the right people. It says: “EFTTA is an organisation that supports angling and takes on the challenges facing fishermen and the industry. To us it is a great fit.”

www.glacieroutdoor.com

CONTACT DETAILS

US: Coby Rowe Tel: +1 800 728 8235 Email: coby@glacierglove.com EUROPE: Betsey Jansen Tel: +43 699 1008 2421 Email: betsey@glacierglove.com Websites: www.glacierglove.com and www.glacieroutdoor.com

October 2011 Angling International

EFTTA EFTTEX deal for lure maker TRADING WITH

THE VOICE OF THE EUROPE AN TACKLE TRADE

Another successful EFTTEX has resulted in Danish specialist Innovative Lures tying up a distribution deal with fellow EFTTA member, Leeda. Leeda has added the vertical jerkbait Jiggy Jr to its portfolio and is currently showcasing the product at its trade shows. Innovative Lures founder Lars Sogaard said: “Leeda was instantly impressed by the Jiggy Jr which we presented in a tank at EFTTEX so that visitors could actually try it out. After extensive and intense testing, Leeda embraced the opportunity to add the Jiggy Jr to its sales portfolio. “We are happy to be working with Leeda. Its professional approach has convinced us that we

have found the right UK partner.” Nic Brown, Leeda’s Marketing Manager, said: “We have been approached by many lure manufacturers in the past but in reality they are all tiny variations on the same theme. But these lures are genuinely unique and allow you to effectively ﬁsh over bottom debris easily without getting snarled.”

On its way to the UK: the Jiggy Jr jerkbait.

Pacific Wave seals huge deals throughout Europe Danish fly fishing company, Pacific Wave, which owns the A.Jensen brand, is on the verge of increasing its sales ‘on a big scale’ following distributorship deals in France, Iberia, the Baltic and Finland. Meetings since EFTTEX have seen the fishing tackle manufacturer tie up deals that were brokered at the Amsterdam showcase. One of the biggest has been a partnership with giant French distributor, Pafex. It will be the exclusive distributor of A.Jensen fly fishing products to all of its 800-plus customers across France. Pacific Wave’s current exposure in France is restricted to around 35 retailers and the company’s Managing Director, Henrik Agerskov Jensen, admits this deal is “very good”. He said: “This is a major step for us in France and could , in time, lead to an increase in overall business of several 100%. It doesn’t bear thinking about. “We have had more and more interest from all the major markets in the south of Europe, but with the deal we now have with Pafex we are able to cover the large French market in a satisfying way.” The ink is also dry on an agreement with Northland 1971 SL, a wholesaler of fishing tackle and outdoor leisure equip44

Angling International October 2011

ment based in Lardero in the La Rioja region of Spain. It will supply A.Jensen products to around 500 retailers in its homeland, Portugal and Andorra. Fishing tackle shops in Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania will also be receiving A.Jensen products following the company’s agreement with Zooserviss SIA, a distributor based in Ogre, Latvia Another deal ﬁrst discussed at EFTTEX came to fruition when Jensen agreed terms with Finnish wholesaler and manufacturer, Wake Fishing. Henrik Agerskov Jensen: deals in France, Spain and the Baltic.

EFTTA TRADING WITH

THE VOICE OF THE EUROPE AN TACKLE TRADE

RICUPRODUCTSTAKINGFULLADVANTAGEOFNEWMEMBERSHIP The Finnish tool maker generated huge interest at its first EFTTEX, swiftly followed by attendance at ICAST. Ricu Products OY started out life in 1994 as Saaristomeren Yrityspalvelu, a fishing guide service taking its customers boat fishing in Finland’s archipelago for pike, perch, Finnish bass, sea trout and salmon. In 1998, Managing Director, Mika Leinonen, started to develop the Ricu Cut and Clean fish handling tool and in November this year the company expects to start manufacturing the device and selling it to markets across the world. Ricu products are made by Okartek Oy in Kaarina –

NEW MEMBER

one of Finland’s major manufacturers of plastic goods. PRODUCTS FOR 2012: Initially, Ricu Products Oy will concentrate on the Ricu Cut and Clean. Following the start of full-scale production in November, the company intends to focus on its home market in Finland and then look to Scandinavia, Russia, Europe, the USA and Canada. PLANS FOR GROWTH: It plans to introduce new products for fly fishermen and hunters next year. It will build on its ‘quality tools from Finland’ concept by also introducing special knives for household use. HOW EFTTA MEMBERSHIP WILL HELP: The company was a first-time exhibitor at EFTTEX in Amsterdam and Leinonen reported good feedback on the product.

He said: “At EFTTEX we made around 35 contacts to whom we are now sending out the ﬁrst samples of the Ricu Clean and Cut. We are honoured to be part of EFTTA. It is an organisation that really helps and supports its members. Through the efforts of EFTTA, we secured a booth at ICAST 2011 in Las Vegas and enjoyed considerable success there.”

CONTACT DETAILS

Tel: +358 40 706 2132 Email: mika.leinonen@kaupunkiuutiset.ﬁ Website: www.ricutuotteet.ﬁ

Companies that want your business

Advertise with us. One annual fee. No hidden extras. (a) 1cm x1 column for €288 or £250 or $400; (b) 2cm x1 column for €438 or £380 or $608; (c) 4cm x1 column for €807 or £700 or $1121

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Angling International October 2011