The Show Issue

Contents Include:

• New Rod Technology
• All About Margins
• Legend Frank Moore
• Reel People
• More from Guides
• Q&A with Andrew Bennett
• Growing the Sport

Download PDF of this issue | Subscribe to Angling Trade

August 31, 2010 (Dillon, Colo.)

The Marabou Vest is reminiscent of a classic fly fishing vest with updated features and unbelievable comfort. This vest has adjustable shoulder and waist straps for a one-size-fits-most sizing and great adjustability for layering. A mesh back helps keep backs cool in warm weather. The large, easy-access back pouch is perfect for a rain jacket or lunch storage. The vertical chest pockets hold large and medium fly boxes while gear attachment tabs and loops abound. Thirteen pockets in total carry plenty of gear for an entire season on the water. During cold fishing days, keep hands warm in the fleece lined pockets. This vest is available in durable waxed cotton canvas in Silt or lightweight nylon in Barnwood. MSRP: $169

The Chica Women’s Vest is a stylish, sleek vest with new comfortable features that will keep women on the water longer. A mesh back and lightweight, breathable fabric keeps you cool while the fleece pockets warm up chilly hands to let you fish longer. Adjustable shoulder and waist straps are ideal for layering and a comfortable fit. The nine interior and exterior pockets as well as the large back pouch, hold plenty of gear for a long season on the water. MSRP: $139

With plenty of sophistication, the Elk River Youth Vest is styled and fit just for kids but cool enough and durable enough to wear for years. The lightweight fabric and padded shoulder straps are sure to keep kids comfortable, while thirteen pockets, a large back pouch and gear attachment tabs and loops, and a d-ring net lash provide plenty of room for gear. Recommended for kids 12 and older. MSRP $69

The Tundra Tech Pack is the pack to take for hikes to fish remote lakes or streams. With a molded back, internal frame and modular designed chest pack, carrying lots of heavy gear remains comfortable the entire time. Contoured straps also help load control and carrying comfort. Two large backpack compartments and an expandable Spandura front pouch allows plenty of room for gear as well as fast access. Wading staff lash points and an integrated rod tube system allows hassle free carrying of two tubes and a wading staff. The backpack also holds a 100 oz. hydration reservoir and includes a d-ring net attachment point. The volume of the backpack is 1525 cubic inches. The chest pack attaches to either the front or the back of the pack or it can be worn on its own for greater versatility. One main storage compartment holds several fly boxes and the zip-down fly bench holds even more flies. The pack includes an integrated floatant holder as well as numerous gear attachment tabs and loops. (The chest pack is sold separately as the Deep Creek for $79). MSRP: $239

The Piney Creek Tech Pack is the smaller version of the Tundra but still allows you to carry plenty of gear for a full day on the river. The backpack and chest pack are a modular design to carry gear while hiking and fishing. The backpack has padded, contoured straps for carry ease and comfort. Two large compartments carry plenty of gear and the two zip-out rod tube holders are very convenient. This 1220 cubic inch backpack carries a 100 oz. hydration reservoir. The chest pack attaches to either the front or the back of the pack or it can be worn on its own for versatility. One main storage compartment holds one large fly box and the zip-down fly bench holds even more flies. It also includes an integrated floatant holder and gear attachment tabs and loops. (The chest pack is sold separately as the Tumbleweed for $59). MSRP: $169

The Lodgepole Fishing Satchel is a durable cotton canvas satchel that brings heritage back to the sport. When all you want to do is fish, just grab this bag and go. The large main compartment has plenty of organizing pockets and the removable waist strap allows carrying comfort all day. Beyond the large main compartment, there is one exterior pocket that is zippered and a small exterior accessories pocket. The lid has both magnets and buckles for closure options so traipsing through the brush won’t be a problem. The exterior also has Hypalon® accessory tabs for tool attachments points.The 16 oz. cotton canvas fabric will last through the years and plenty of organization options make this fun satchel worth taking on every fishing trip.  MSRP: $89

Function and quick access are what the Lost Canyon Gear Bag is all about. Necessities are at your fingertips and organization is moldable to your needs with movable dividers. This rugged 16 oz. cotton canvas gear bag has a large zip-top lid with a quick access top hatch and a molded waterproof bottom. Two large zippered exterior pockets and one slash pocket hold the excess items while the interior movable divider system can accommodate even more gear. Tippet spool cords and an adjustable shoulder strap that’s padded complete this bag’s numerous functions. MSRP: $125

The Dry Shake Bottle Holder puts fishpond’s Jacquard webbing to a great use. It accommodates most dry shake bottles and attaches with a quick clip.  MSRP: $8

About fishpond:

fishpond is a worldwide brand of products designed and manufactured for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts. fishpond was created with the philosophy that

“Retention is key to increasing overall participation in fishing, according to a new addendum to the 2010 Special Report on Fishing and Boating. RBFF took a closer look at the Special Report to help identify the target market segments that represent the best potential for future growth of recreational fishing and boating, as outlined in the organization’s Strategic Plan.”

ADDENDUM KEY FINDINGS:

• Of the 48 million people that fish, 31.7 million (two-thirds of the total) participates in freshwater fishing exclusively.

• Freshwater fishing participation increased 1.6 percent from 2008 to 2009.

• Between 2007 and 2009, fishing has consistently attracted between 3.3 – 3.4 million new participants to the sport each year. However, fishing continues to lose participants at an even higher rate.

• Fishing is expected to maintain its current level of participation over the course of the next five years. However, the participation rate will actually show a decline as the U.S. population increases.

Please visit this link for the full report

AnglerSurvey.com©, developed by Southwick Associates, now offers fly fishing market reports.  These reports provide details on specific categories of fly tackle purchases, including favorite tackle brands, price points, store type preferences, and activities including species sought.

Southwick Associates invites fly fishing-related businesses and media to the small business room, booth SB8, at the International Fly Tackle Dealer Show, September 9-11, to learn how accurate and timely market information can benefit businesses.  Southwick Associates will have information available on the fly fishing and general sportfishing industry, including reports for media professionals, manufacturers, retailers and other fly fishing professionals.

The AnglerSurvey.com© is a monthly online consumer panel survey of U.S. anglers that tracks monthly market trends and sportfishing activity. Launched by Southwick Associates in 2006, AnglerSurvey.com helps the outdoor industry, fisheries and wildlife managers and conservation organizations stay ahead of market trends and angler needs.

Contact: Donna@southwickassociates.com

In a draft agreement issued on August 19, the EPA will shield TU from liability under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act if hazardous waste is released by following an EPA-approved work plan.

“This is great news—we have been working on this project for Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act years and are glad that the agency has provided TU with this additional protection,” said Elizabeth Russell, project manager. “The risk of a release of hazardous waste from the tailings was very minimal, but we are grateful for the agency’s faith in TU to achieve results,” Russell said.

The Kerber Creek project is located at the north end of the San Luis Valley in Colorado. Historic mining along Kerber Creek led to metals pollution and a degraded stream channel, requiring it to be places on the list of Colorado’s most impaired waterways.

TU is the first to use the EPA’s “Good Samaritan” protection created in 2007 to accelerate restoration of watersheds and fisheries threatened by abandoned hard rock mine runoff by encouraging voluntary cleanups by parties that do not own the property and are not responsible for the property’s environmental conditions.

Since 2008, TU and its partners have spent over $1.3 million on restoration efforts along Kerber Creek. Working with the Bureau of Land Management, Colorado’s Nonpoint Source Program, the Natural Resource Conservation Service, and local landowners, the goal is to treat 60 acres of mine tailings using lime, limestone and compost, and to restore the stream for fish and wildlife habitat.

The EPA’s do not protect Good Samaritans from Clean Water Act liability, but this additional protection was not needed for the Kerber Creek project because there are no draining mines.

“Thousands of miles of headwater streams in the West are either threatened or dead as a result of historic mining pollution, and without Clean Water Act liability protection,  Good Samaritans’ hands are tied,” said Russell.  “If they try to treat the draining water to remove metals and improve water quality, they become liable for that water for ever.  That’s a risk no entity has yet been willing to take.”

08.24.2010 – (Bainbridge Island, WA) – Redington, a leader in fly fishing gear, announces new branding for the 2011 season to help develop a stronger Redington brand to be more aligned with it’s current customers and also attract new consumers to the industry.

Redington compiled research and data collected about its brand, consumer base and product offerings to develop a new brand world, identity and overall communications. With this new brand comes a new outlook on how Redington will move forward with messaging to consumers, product range offerings and even a new look for the logo. Redington will continue to speak to core consumers in the fly fishing industry but will also focus its reach beyond the industry to those who aren’t yet a part of the fly fishing world.

“We have spent the past year looking into how Redington could grow outside of the fly fishing industry while still staying true to our core fly fishing market,” says Jennifer Gish, Marketing Manager for Redington. “Through the research we found interesting parallels between anglers and general outdoor enthusiasts in what they desire and need. Our brand has been repositioned in a way to not only reach out to fly anglers but new customers as well. If we can get outdoor enthusiasts excited about fly fishing, we can gain new customers and help grow the entire fly fishing industry.”

All products for the 2011 season reflect this new brand world with new colors, new logo and surprising features that all outdoor enthusiasts can identify with. Redington hopes that both dealers and consumers will be excited about all that is new.

The Infinite-Fish Group seeks a diversely skilled individual to head office operations out of Bozeman. Duties include some sales and administration for travel agency and specialty rental vehicle business as well as daily duties revolving around employment/ consulting agency. Real world office and business skills are mandatory, as is a college degree and excellent communication abilities. International travel experience, willingness to travel, and additional language skills are a serious plus. $30K+ DOE as well as profit sharing potential.

Private Island Lodge Group Leaders, The Caribbean

One of the Caribbean’s premier fly fishing lodges seeks industry professionals to host trips. The ideal candidates will be established pros, have a strong client following, and a passion for saltwater fly fishing. Comp’ed trips plus commission possible. Contact protravel@infinite-fish.com for more details.

General Manager, Fiji

A small, high-end diving resort seeks an experienced on-site general manager. This is a year round position. In addition to operations oversight, Managers are expected to handle all bookings and marketing. Diving industry experience is imperative. Couples are encouraged to apply.

UNI-Products, a world leader in the supply of spooled fly-tying materials, announces the addition of five fresh colors—brown, yellow,rainbow black, pink, and light blue—to their very popular Axxel Ty-Rap product. Axxel 8″ Ty-Rap is one narrow strand of flash material supported by two nylon micro-filaments for strength. It is packaged in bundles of 8″ lengths.

A combo package with packages of all seventeen colors is available.

Fly-tiers are continuously finding new uses for Axxel flash material. For example, to add sparkle, Axxel can be wound with other body materials or added to a standard wing. It makes excellent ribbing material; tough and adds a more subtle flash than regular tinsels. For example, when used as a rib with ordinary chenille it creates an effect similar to crystal chenille. Also, it makes interesting tinsel bodies featuring the variegated or broken-up pattern so often found in the natural world.

flies tied by Micheal Leblanc

Look to UNI-Products for the best in specialty fly-tying materials and accessories.

www.uniprodu

cts.com

Boulder, Colo., August 17, 2010—

Sea to Summit, a leader in high-quality outdoor, backpacking, water sports and travel products, announces Brian Moran as Operations Manager for their North American headquarters in Boulder. This new position was created to help Sea to Summit better meet their strategic growth objectives while meeting significant needs of dealers and customers.

“We are very pleased to bring Brian on board. His industry knowledge is a perfect fit for Sea to Summit as we continue to grow our product and dealer base,” comments Andrew Dunbar, president Sea to Summit, North America. “We will leverage Brian’s experience to improve our systems, our reliability and our shipping speed and accuracy.”

New to Sea to Summit, Moran is not new to the outdoor industry. His 14-year background includes 6 years as Warehouse Manager for Madden Mountaineering in Boulder, Colo. Most recently, Brian was the Director of Operations with Mountainsmith in Golden, Colo., for 8 years.  Not only does he bring valuable experience, he also shares the Sea to Summit passion for outdoor adventures and the gear those adventures require.

Sea to Summit Inc. brings award-winning innovative essentials to the U.S. Celebrating 20 years of innovation, Sea to Summit, based in Perth, Western Australia, has been the international award-winning designer and manufacturer of lightweight backpacking and adventure travel gear distributed around the globe. As the founding sponsor of Leave No Trace Australia, Sea to Summit helped introduce the concept of minimal environmental impact to Australian adventurers in 2003. The company was named in honor of co-founder Tim Macartney-Snape’s incredible 1990 solo expedition from the Bay of Bengal in India to the top of Mt. Everest May 11. Whether your adventures take you to the sea or to a summitor places in between, Sea to Summit products will more than earn their space in your bag and gear closet. Find a list of Sea to Summit retailers at www.SeatoSummit.com.

For more information:
Pat Smith, OnTarget Public Relations
303.333.1516
pat@ontargetpr.net

Missy Ramey, Sea to Summit, Inc.
303.440.8977
missy@seatosummit.com

The election process has come to a close and the results have been tallied. On behalf of the current AFFTA board and the general membership, we would like to thank each candidate for volunteering to serve. With 28 applicants and only 9 available positions, this was by far the most competitive election AFFTA has ever experienced. Making things even tougher, the association’s commitment to maintain diversity with its board further limited opportunities with some of the industry categories. As is outlined in the association’s bylaws, 2 members from each industry category must be appointed to the board prior to filling at-large seats. As you will see in the summary below, 4 of the available board positions were filled first to maintain industry diversity. After this, only 5 additional seats were available to the remaining 24 candidates.

Representatives (1 required)
Scott Harkins – San Miguel Mountain & River Products

Media/PR&MKT/Associations/Government/Educational (1 required)
Kate Fox – Casting for Recovery

Retailer (2 required)
Pat Pendergast – The Fly Shop, Inc.
Dustin Carlson – Fishwest

At Large Seats (5 required)
Jeff Wieringa – Scientific Anglers
David Heller – Ross Reels USA / Ross Worldwide Outdoors
Larry Barrett – Far Bank Enterprises
Riley Cotter – Umpqua Feather Merchants
Mike Gawtry – LL Bean

Congratulations to all! This is a dynamic time in the fly fishing business and each one of the people will play a critical role in shaping our industry for years to come.

It is worth mentioning that more than 50% of AFFTA members participated in this year’s election. This is an incredible turnout for any election and a clear demonstration that the association is more active than even as we reinvent the fly fishing trade during these challenging economic times. We are excited about the future and look forward to kicking off the year with everyone at the new International Fly Tackle Dealer Show this coming month!

If you are not currently a member of AFFTA and want to be a part of our exciting future, please click below to sign up!