ICAST 2017 – Our recap: brands, buyers, pros, and more!

This week Co-Anglers.com had the pleasure of being part of  ICAST 2017, the biggest trade show for the fishing industry. ICAST took place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

Bill Blade at ICAST 2017 PC: Co-Anglers.com

The show consisted of over 100 of the top leading brands, top buyers, retail experts and the media. This was a great experience to see how the behind the scenes works for our industry. This 3 day event hosted innovators, new product showcases, and even new companies, both small and large. ICAST has become the place to be for the who’s who in our industry. Anglers of all types come to showcase their product lines and discuss how they have been a part of the innovation process from their own concepts to production.

Co-Anglers.com had the pleasure of interviewing several Professional Anglers. I not only asked them about their product lines but as well to provide a tip or two to co-anglers that are coming up in the industry. We heard a lot of do’s and don’ts from these pros. We have even heard one say that they never liked being a co-angler and why. These interviews provided are very interesting perspective from the top leading fishermen of our industry.

One thing I learned from ICAST, these past 3 days, is that this convention is also the platform where professional anglers can make either a new name for themselves or better their sponsorship opportunities by selling themselves to the top leading companies.

Secondly, it was great to watch a small companies showcase their products. With hard work, dedication and explanations like no other, buyers and retailers were able to understand the vision their products. I had the pleasure of interviewing some of these companies and they will be featured on Co-Anglers.com in the next few articles.

Co-Anglers.com enjoyed Happy Hour with Bassmaster Elite Casey Ashley at the Costa booth at ICAST 2017

Parties, lounge areas with DJ’s and some of the best happy hours were also found throughout. Some companies know how to draw a crowd for sure. I was even able to catch Bassmaster Elite Casey Ashley playing guitar and singing at the Costa booth. One thing I learned from this is that good music, drinks and networking goes a long way.

I recommend that if you ever have the opportunity to visit any of the ICAST events that you do so. There is so much to learn about the industry. So many great inventors, products and athletes.

I would like to thank all of the companies, organizations and anglers that provided their time and knowledge to Co-Anglers.com. Remember to always like and share our post. If you would like to be a featured or spotlighted angler on Co-Anglers.com, contact us for more information.