Download - Angling International - November 2011 - Issue 46

CARP SECTORSPECIAL ISSUE

Berkley, Dynamite,Greys, Shimano and more

Essential reading for buyers in the tackle trade

November 2011 Issue 46

ey, Dynamite,Shimano and morey y

more and Shimano Greys,y y

Now online at angling-international.com

MORENEWS AND

VIDEO ONLINE

www.angling-international.com

y w.aannggggggggggling-NOWMAILED TO

12,000+BUSINESSES

AROUND THE

WORLD

“Counterfeiting is now a hugeproblem and we need concertedaction.” – Bjorn Elmervik

Essential reading for buyers in the tackle trade

November 2011 Issue 46

Online at angling-international.com

NOWMAILED TO

12,000+BUSINESSES

AROUND THE

WORLD

GLOBALNEWS

Fly show supremo hits back atnegative criticism p8

MYRANS UNCOVERSCHINESE LURE SCAM

COMMUNIQUÉ continued on page 8 >

“We are very concerned because it is confusing the mar-ketplace. Anglers are using what they think are Myrans luresand when they do not perform to the level they expect of aquality lure it affects the reputation of our company. It hurtsus very much”

This is not the first time that Sportsystem has been hitby the counterfeiting scandal. Elmervik said: “We have lostsome of our markets in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine becauseof copies.

“And six years ago, together with the Finnish police anda lawyer, we stopped a container on the border betweenFinland and Russia that was full of counterfeit fishing gear.

“It turned out to have been purchased in London by abuyer from Latvia.”

EFTTA General Secretary Janet Doyle said that the letterfrom Sportsystem was due to be discussed at its next boardmeeting. She added: “We acknowledge there is a problemwith counterfeit products coming out of China and we arein constant discussions with China Fish through our closerelationship with its President, Li Jiang.”

Police have swooped toconfiscate thousands offake Myrans lures andspinners that have beensold to anglers in Sweden.

The authorities have impoundedthe illegally-made Chinese productswhich claim to have been made inSweden by top Myrans lure andspinner maker, Sportsystem.

Following the police action,Managing Director of Sportsystem,

Bjorn Johansson Elmervik is calling on EFTTA to help stopthe flow of Chinese counterfeits through lobbying in Brusselsand its contacts with China Fish.

Elmervik told Angling International: “I was alerted by afriend a few months ago that two websites were selling lureswhich they claimed were made in Sweden by my company.

“When I looked at one of the sites there were seven pagesof what it claimed were Myrans lures for sale.

“Action by Sportsystem has had the sites closed downand police are set to destroy over 2,300 fake lures. They willalso be taking action against the owners of the websites. Nowholesalers are involved. Therefore the new tactic is sellingdirectly to consumers.”

Elmervik added that the identity of the rogue manufacturerin China is unknown and that he is attempting to find thesource of the fakes. “I have received the postal packagingfrom China, but it does not contain an invoice or tax or dutydetails,” he says.

As a member of EFTTA, Elmervik has written to the organi-sation seeking help in hunting down the manufacturer. Healso wants it to exert pressure on the Chinese authorities toact against counterfeit companies through its close ties withChina Fish. “Counterfeiting is a huge problem and we needconcerted action,” added Elmervik.

“The packaging, labelling and patent numbering looksimilar to ours and they are also stamped ‘Made In Sweden’to make anglers think they are buying the real thing.

“However, the products themselves are greatly inferior,”added Elmervik.

INSIDE: 17-page Carp SpecialLeading companies reveal their key products for 2012 Starts p31

EXCLUSIVESwisher: IFTD ‘isalive and kicking’

EXCLUSIVERapala puts USfans on red alert

Lure giant revealsfour sizzlers for 2012

p28-29

The ‘Big Pit’is back!Exclusive guided tour of theShimano Big Baitrunner XT-A LCp42

MORENEWS AND

VIDEO ONLINE

www.angling-international.com

Bjorn Johansson Elmervik:Appealed to EFTTA for help.

Spot the difference. The realMyrans Akka spinner (right)alongside the fake.

Angling International November 20116

MAGAZINE CREDITS

NOVEMBER 2011

As soon as a new product comes off theproduction line a copy won’t be farbehind.

The fishing tackle industry is not alonein its battle against the counterfeiters. Fake

goods affect every industry and cost honest manufacturersmillions of pounds, dollars, yen, euros – or whatever othercurrency you deal in – a year.

So it was depressing to hear of another company thathas been targeted by the criminals and of its attempts totrack the source (see page 3 story).

Sportsystem Managing Director Bjorn JohanssonElmervik tells Angling International that his company haslost literally thousands of lure sales in Russia, Belarus andthe Ukraine – and he can identify fakes as the reason.

Businesses face a near impossible task to get to thesource of the problem as irresponsible manufacturers inthe Far East and China are difficult to trace and almostimmune to punishment.

Elmervik calls for a ‘concerted action’ and has asked

EFTTA through its lobbying in Brussels and links withChina Fish to help.

EFTTA already works closely with China Fish in aneffort to eradicate the problem and their efforts should beapplauded.

As a staunch supporter of innovation – and the sponsorof the EFTTEX Best New Products Awards – AnglingInternational shares the concerns of the industry.

And we will show our commitment by highlightingtransgressions when we hear of them – as we have in thismonth’s issue. If your company has been affected, pleaselet us know.

Next month sees our Reels Special where we will belooking at where the market stands, what trends aredriving the segment and new product developments.It is a fascinating insight that’s not to be missed…

Anthony [email protected]

• Publishing editor: Mel Bagnall; [email protected] +44 (0)1733 392 977• Assistant Editor: Anthony Hawkswell; [email protected]• Editorial director: Rob Carter; [email protected] • Art Director: Keely Docherty-Lee; [email protected]• Designer: Kate Holt • Database Manager: Graham Goor; [email protected]• Subscription enquiries: [email protected] • Colour reproduction: AT Graphics UK Ltd, Peterborough

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; [email protected]; Tel. +44 7825 999230; Skype. lpetrickova• U.S. National Sales Manager: Stuart Pavlik; [email protected]; Tel. 561-627-2520 direct; Skype. stuart.pavlik

•THANKS THIS ISSUE GO TO: George Cunningham, Frans DeCuelaer, Bjorn Johansson Elmervik, Ellen Geskus, Jürgen Haese, Drew Kelly, Beatriz Lopez, Phil Morlock,John Pledger, Joby Pridmore, Nicky van Rixel, Randi Swisher, Austin Wang, Jan Willenbruch.●Nopartofthismagazinemaybereproducedwithoutthepermissionofthepublisher.Themagazineassumesnoresponsibilityforthesafetyofcontributions,althoughallreasonablecarewillbetaken.

Benvenuto,BienvenidaBienvenue,Willkommen

Meet the makers of Angling International...

ROB CARTER, EDITORIAL DIRECTORRob began his career writing for and editing specialistconsumer magazines in the UK (including Match foot-ball magazine, Fore! golf magazine and Trout Fisher-man) before being appointed editor-in-chief of Emap’scontractpublishingdepartment.He is a founder director ofTop Corner, the publishers of Angling International.

KEELY DOCHERTY-LEE, ART DIRECTORAs Top Corner’s art director and co-founder, Keely has16 years’ design experience, and a proven record ofproducing successful ad campaigns, brochures anddirect mail. She has worked with many angling clientsand today leads the design team on Angling Interna-tional, managing the editorial production of each issue.

LUCIE HENTON,INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL DIRECTORLucie can call upon 11 years’ experience of deliver-ing commercial solutions for angling clients. Czech-born, she is also familiar with other eastern Europeanlanguages. Call her to discuss your advertising andmarketing needs.

MEL BAGNALL, PUBLISHING EDITORMel’s vast experience in the angling industry includessix years as the publisher of UK company Emap’sangling business. He began his career on AnglingTimes where he was reporter, feature writer, subeditor and news editor. He has worked in magazines formore than 39 years.

ANTHONY HAWKSWELL, ASSISTANT EDITORAnthony is an experienced news editor with a strongbackground in angling journalism, having worked asNews Editor on the UK’s leading angling weekly news-paper, Angling Times. His background also includestime spent editing a national business-to-businesstitle in the UK.

STUART PAVLIK, US NATIONAL SALES MANAGERStuart is based in North Palm Beach, Florida where hemanages the accounts of Angling International’s USand Canadian clients. An avid fisherman with advertis-ing experience gained at Florida Sportsman, Stuart hasa strong understanding of worldwide fishing from histenure at IGFA and from extensive travel.

8

I N S I G H T • A N A L Y S I S • T R A D E N E W S

COMMUNIQUÉ


IFTD SHOW DIRECTOR:‘THIS SHOW IS ALIVEAND KICKING’

IFTD show supremo Randi Swisher has shrugged off criticismof the event and issued a defence of the fly fishing show-piece.Confronting concerns about the viability of the IFTDShow following a relatively poor turn-out from retailers inNew Orleans, Swisher has come out all guns blazing. One

outspoken critic has likened the show to a horse that should be putdown. In response, Swisher declared: “The IFTD show is alive andkicking,” before listing the positives from New Orleans.

Speaking exclusively to Angling International in October,Swisher pointed out there was:

• A 20% increase in exhibitors;• 90 new retailers who had never attended IFTD before;• 90% of the biggest players in the industry in attendance.He said: “There are always going to be people who do not agree

with what you do. No one likes to hear negative comments abouttheir performance.

“Hell, I get hand grenades thrown at me every day. It’s part ofmy job, but I have to have the armour to cope with it. Criticism likethis only serves to incentivise me and make the show even better.

“It is no secret that the attendance at the New Orleans show wasdown, but dependent on where we stage the IFTD show, there willalways be fluctuations. It is our policy to move the show around theUS every year so we have to accept that.

“Our shows in the west will always attract more retailers becausea great majority of the fly fishing business is located there. However,despite that, I will do everything I can to increase the number ofretailers who come through the door from all parts of the country.”

Reacting to claims that IFTD should be amalgamated with ICAST,Swisher was equally dismissive. He said: “Two years ago the fly fish-ing industry decided that it wanted its own trade show.

“It said in no uncertain terms that it did not want to be a smallerpart of a bigger event. Until there is a change of thinking within amajority of our industry, I will continue to do everything I can tomake IFTD the best show possible.

“You can never say that IFTD will never join forces with ICAST,but for as long as the current situation exists, that will not happen.

“Comparing IFTD to ICAST is also unfair. ICAST is ten timesbigger. You are not likening apples with apples.”

Swisher also revealed that he is currently working on a rallying‘State of the Union’ address to the fly fishing industry.

He said: “We have had two great years since AFTTA formed itstrade show and we need to emphasise that and tell people what weare doing.

He said: “I will be informing everyone involved in the fly fishingindustry what AFTTA is all about and why it is important that it hasits own dedicated trade show.

“It will be a call to action for the fly fishing industry to unite,strengthen and continue to grow.”

Randi Swisher: “We need toremind the trade how far wehave come with the show.”

Following criticism over low attendance, Randi Swisher says he isdetermined to make fly fishing’s key trade show ‘bigger and better’– starting with a list of successes and a rallying call to the trade.


COMMUNIQUÉ

10

New South African body aimsto sign up 1.5million members


SAFTAD – South Africa’s fishing tackle tradebody – is bankrolling the formation of thenew organisation set up to represent theinterests of all parties involved in recrea-tional angling in the country. The creation of

the South African Consolidated Recreational AnglersAssociation (SACRAA) was announced officially at theSAFTAD show in August and it is hoping to attract amembership of more than 1.5m out of the nation’s2.5m anglers.

The interim head of the new body is SAFTADChairman, John Pledger. He told Angling Interna-tional: “Before SACRAA was incorporated there wasno recognised body that represented the interests of

all recreational angling bodies. SACRAA will bringeveryone under one umbrella organisation that willbe the recognised body of recreational anglers inSouth Africa.”

Pledger added that SACRAA was starting withan immediate membership of 4,000 following thedecision of the Association of Rock & Surf Anglersto add the SACRAA membership fee to its annualsubscription.

He added that he hoped to have over 500,000card holders signed up within a year and expected aneventual membership of over 1.5m.

Pledger said: “The figures stack up because thereare 2.5m anglers in total in South Africa plus 1,200

dealers and 100 distributors and manufacturers.”Pledger revealed that the annual membership fees

have been set at 20 rand for anglers, 1,200 randfor retailers and 2,500 rand for distributors andmanufacturers.

“The reaction has been very positive,” he added.“People in the sport realise that we need to be unitedto promote a strong front in protecting our naturalresources to ensure a sustainable fisheries future andthereby ensuring a buoyant trading market.”

SAFTAD will continue to run SACRAA until Augustnext year when the first annual meeting of the neworganisation will take place and where officials andcommittee members will be elected.

Legendary carpangler Terry Hearn(pictured leftwith his first-everriver-caught 30lbcarp) has joinedAdvanced CarpEquipment (ACE).Hearn, who has six

UK 50-pounders and countless 40s to his credit, willwork alongside ACE Product Development DirectorMax Cottis to take the ACE brand forward.

“ACE has already built up a reputation for its rangeof top quality and innovative products, but aftermeeting Max I realised the ACE story hasn’t reallystarted yet,” said Hearn. “There are some really seri-ous plans for the future that promises to make ACEthe brand of choice for carp anglers worldwide.”

The development of ACE products has already be-gun with a new brochure being launched in January.ACE was bought by Rapala-owned Dynamite Baitsearlier this year and Hearn caught his first-ever river‘30’ using Dynamite’s Savoury Spice.

Terry Hearnsigns for ACEAquaz, the wader and clothing brand, reports good

progress with its export strategy in America.The Korean company now has product in 27 US

states, serving customers from its distribution facilityin Torrance, California.

“We are seeing good growth,” said ManagingDirector Brandon Hwang. “We have supply in boththe east and west of the country as well as buildingup distribution in central states.”

The US has proved to be a graveyard for a number

of European and Asian companies who have failed togain a foothold there in the past. But Hwang believesthat the quality of the Aquaz products combined witha ‘slow-burn’ approach is a formula for continuedsuccess.

“It is essentially a low-risk strategy built on quality,workmanship and high-end materials,” he added.“We are very happy with our product programmes andthe high number of repeat orders is very encouraging.

“Many waders on the market are made in the FarEast, but we are able to maintain our quality in ourown Korean factory. It really makes a difference.

“Exhibiting at this year’s ICAST and IFTD shows inthe US also gave us a boost by introducing the brandto new reps.”

Among those products to catch the eye of Americanbuyers were the BR-J-200S and BR-203S DX waders,plus the BR-1012 and BR-1013 breathable wadingjacket and the AQ-303 fly fishing vest.

Meanwhile, Aquaz continues to flourish in Europe.Distribution deals agreed in the summer in Denmark,Norway and Germany mean that the brand is now inmore than 20 European countries, with a handful ofother agreements currently under discussion.

AQUAZ REAPING REWARDS IN THE USA

Left: Brandon Hwang – building up business throughout the US.


COMMUNIQUÉ

12 Angling International November 2011

Morlockattackscrueltygroups

Shimano’s environmentalguru has urged Canada’sMPs and senators not to bebrainwashed by supportersof animal cruelty organisa-

tions that are seeking legislation tomake fishing in the country a criminaloffence.

Phil Morlock, Director of Environ-mental Affairs for Shimano in Canadaand the US, was addressing an all-party non-partisan group of politiciansin Ottawa on the need to act on behalfof all Canadians who enjoy fishing andother outdoor sports.

He told a breakfast meeting ofthe independent Outdoors CaucusAssociation of Canada (OCAC): “Theissues facing us are very serious andwe will work closely with our repre-sentatives to preserve the rights ofCanadians and the economic stabilitythat has evolved within the industryfor so many decades.”

Morlock, the OCAC Chair, also ex-posed the anti-fishing lobby’s hiddenagenda in convincing governmentselsewhere to close vast regional fishingregions under the guise of ‘protectionof habitat’ where no actual threatsexist.

Groups in Canada have been repeat-edly pushing for legislation to outlawfishing and duck hunting under thepretence of protecting household petsfrom abuse.

The parliamentary Outdoors Cau-

cus was created in 2006 by Conserva-tive MP Garry Breitkreuz to campaignfor the environment, conservation,safety and access to public landsand waterways for Canadians. It ishistorically the largest all-party groupon Parliament Hill.

Bob Izumi, television host and crea-tor of Canada’s Real Fishing Show toldthe Outdoors Caucus members thatheritage activities comprises a multi-billion dollar industry that createsthousands of jobs.

He said: “These outdoor activitieshave become really big business thatgive an important boost to so manyregions of Canada.

“Equipment and gear sales are thriv-ing and that includes high-end items.Fishing tournaments alone can meaneconomic security for communities bycreating demand for fuel, lodging andsupplies.

“The outdoors brings families to-gether to take part in these wholesomepastimes. We need to defend thosebusinesses that feed more than $10bninto our economy. At the same timewe will be making sure our kids andgrand-kids can take part in the sameactivities our forefathers enjoyed.”

“The issues facing usin Canada are veryserious.”– Shimano’s Phil Morlock

EXPORT MANAGER FOR ZEBCO

Patagonia has opened a flagship storein the UK. The US-based apparelmanufacturer has opened the doorsof its second UK outlet in a formerbrewery in London’s famous CoventGarden district.

Building on its ethical busi-ness philosophy, the locationwas chosen in keeping with thecompany’s retail brief to usehistoric sites and to preservethe integrity of the building.

The store is stocking the fullPatagonia range, including thecompany’s extensive line-upof high-performance fishingclothing.

Patagonia’s European MarketingManager, Jonathan Petty, said: “Theowners of Patagonia, Yvon and

Malinda Chouinard, have for manyyears wanted to open a London store.

“We are very excited to be presentin one of Europe’s premier cities andhope this will continue to drive the

fantastic momentum the brandcurrently has in Europe.”

The company’s first UK retail storewas opened in the Peak District.

Patagonia opens flagshipUK store in central London

United in defence ofrecreational fishing:Bob Izumi (left)and Shimano’s PhilMorlock.

Zebco Europe has stepped up its Europeanexpansion with the appointment of a newexport manager.

Christian Nawrath (30), from Bendestorf,has strengthened the Zebco Europe sales team

with a mandate to look after export customersin European countries where the company isnot represented with its own branch office.

A passionate leisure angler, Nawrath hasextensive experience in international exports.


Australia’s biggest and first-everhome built artificial fishing reefis expected to be installed inthe sea off the New South Wales(NSW) coast by Christmas.

Work began on the structure in August andit will be the first of three planned for NSWover the next five years.

Australia’s Minister for Primary Industries,Katrina Hodgkinson, said: “This purpose-built offshore reef will be the first and largeststructure to be designed and constructed inAustralia and we expect it not only to attractfish species such as snapper and yellowtailkingfish, but recreational anglers from nearand far.

“With two more planned, they are ex-pected to vastly improve recreational fishingopportunities off the coast of Sydney.”

Waterway Constructions Pty, in a jointventure with Haejoo Pty, was selected astenderers to build the reef.

The reef structures are expected to have alifespan of more than 30 years and have beenspecially designed to withstand NSW coastalconditions while minimising ecological impacts.

The overall reef unit is made of steel. It

stands 12m high, weighs approximately 42tonnes and is designed to provide a complexhabitat for a range of fish.

Hodgkinson added: “Funds from theNSW Recreational Fishing Trust will be usedto construct the offshore reefs and are a greatexample of how recreational licence fees arebeing invested back into the fishing community.”

Katrina Hodgkinson saysthe reefs are expected to‘vastly improve’ recreationalfishing opportunities.

German manufacturer Behr Angelsporthas reported record trading for 2011. Andas the company announced its new tradecatalogue, Managing Director ManfredBehr told Angling International that he ishopeful of even better results in 2012.

“Last year was another record forBehr Angelsport, with both domesticand export sales well up,” he said. “Wewill continue to invent great products forthe future, focusing on service and coreproduct competencies.”

BEHR ANGELSPORT ANNOUNCES RECORD TRADING FIGURESBehr’s new catalogue contains more

than 8,000 terminal tackle and clothingproducts – the company does not sellrods and reels – and features Englishlanguage for the first time.

Last summer, the 35-year-old com-pany added more than 200 items to itssaltwater range, which now representsaround 25% of its product line-up.

“The trade will notice that the 2012catalogue is our biggest ever, with all theimportant information also in English,”added Behr. “We would like to thank allour loyal customers for their continuedsupport over the years.”

For more information on the Behrrange email [email protected],fax to +49 6203 923 874 or visitwww.behrfishing.de.

Donations by Pure Fishing to theAmerican Breast Cancer Foundation(ABCF) has totalled nearly a quarter of amillion dollars since it linked up with thecharity in 2007. The tackle giant startedits association with the ABCF throughits Shakespeare subsidiary and in theintervening years has given $215,000 indonations.

Ugly Stik joined the cause in 2008and since then fellow Pure Fishingstablemates Pfleuger, Berkley, Penn

and Stren have been added to the list ofsupporters.

“Pure Fishing is a proud supporter ofthe American Breast Cancer Foundationand its mission to provide individuals infinancial need, their families and theirloved ones with education, support andaccess to the early detection of thedisease,” said Cara Finger, Pure FishingProduct Manager. “The company hasdonated $215,000 to the organisationand will continue to support the ABCF.”

Pure Fishing reaffirms itssupport for cancer charity


COMMUNIQUÉ

First artificial reef to be installedoff Sydney coast within months


Pozo Fly Fishing Products of Italy isexpanding the business and looking fordistributors. Since being joined by GuidoVolterra (pictured below) in November lastyear as Partner, Chief Executive and General

Manager, the Brescia-based company has embarked onan expansion programme that has seen it relaunch itswebsite and introduce a new range of reels.

Volterra told Angling International: “Pozo is amarket leader in Italy, but we are now ready to expandour activities to other countries.

“We are looking for national dealers who canrepresent our products. We require not only fly fishingdistributors, but also general wholesalers who we canback up with our specialist technical support.”

Pozo was founded by Italian fly fishing expertAntonio Pozzolini in 1992 and has established itselfas a manufacturer of premium quality fly tackle.

The majority of its rods are made with its exclusiveand revolutionary ULS – an ultra-light carboncomposite technology – that makes it 30% lighterthan other comparable products on the market.

The company produces more than 50 rods in 15

ranges, 16 reels and a complete set of fly lines and hooks.It has recently launched the new Midy – a series of

value-for-money aluminium freshwater reels.Volterra revealed that Pozo was preparing for two

major launches in January. He said: “There will bea new range of four-piece rods that have undergone16 months of testing and which can be used in anyfishing situation.

“There will also be a special line of flies, includ-ing wet, wet dry, terrestrial, nymphs, nobblers andstreamers for black bass, pike and saltwater species.”

He added: “With so much going on, there is a

lot of potential for us to expand the Pozo businessbeyond our shores.”• Interested parties from around the world can emailGuido Volterra at [email protected] orcall +39 030 273 2027.

CABELA’S TARGETSE-COMMERCE LIFTUS outdoor sports giant, Cabela’s, has beefed up itsinternet sales operation with the appointment of ane-commerce expert.

The giant retailer has recruited former Walmartemployee Scott K. Williams as its Executive Vice Presi-dent and Chief Marketing and E-Commerce Officer.

Williams was Corporate Vice President of WalmartStores between 2006 and 2010 and worked for itswarehouse operation, Samsclub.com, before joiningonline retailer, Fanatics Inc as President last year.

Tommy Millner, Cabela’s Chief Executive Officer, said:“Scott brings a great deal of e-commerce experienceto the company.

“I look forward to his valuable contributions to ourmarketing and e-commerce operations and am excitedabout leveraging his expertise.”

More than 50,000 enthusi-asts are expected to visit theseven venues of the Fly Fish-ing Show, estimates ChuckFurimsky (right), producerand director of America’slargest trans-continentalsporting event. The 2012season begins on January6th in Denver and concludeson March 4th in Pasadena, California.

The inaugural Fly Fishing Show was the Somerset Show in NewJersey in 1992 and today it is still the largest with more than 200exhibitors and 10,000 visitors. Dates and locations for next year’sshows are:• Denver, January 6-8• Marlborough. Mass. January 20-22• Somerset NJ, January 27-29• Raleigh, North Carolina, February 11-12• Lancaster, Pa., February 18-19• Pleasanton, Calif., February 24-26• Pasadena, Calif., March 3-4Visit the organiser’s website www.flyfishingshow.com for details.

Furimsky expecting50,000 show visitors


COMMUNIQUÉ

Pozo adds new rods and flies asits search for partners intensifies

19


COMMUNIQUÉ

Tronixpro brings backUltramarine to the UK

Top Italian beach fish-ing brand Ultramarinehas made a returnto UK fishing tackleoutlets after a break of

more than five years.Tronixpro, asea fishing tackle wholesaler basedin the south of England, is the soledistributor of the high-end brandwhich has been responsible forhelping crown seven sea anglingworld champions since 2000.

Ultramarine’s products will be available through Tronixpro’sextensive range of approved stockists throughout the UK.

Tronixpro’s Managing Director, George Cunningham,told Angling International: “I knew that Ultramarine hadn’thad a UK distributor for some time so I approached itsowner, Allessandro Maccioni, to see if there was a possibil-ity of bringing it back.

“Ultramarine have some amazing products and enjoy acult following amongst British beach match anglers herein the UK.

“I had heard complaints from some people who werestruggling to get hold of their products so the solution tothe problem seemed fairly simple to me.

“Ultramarine’s portfolio is very high end and quitespecialist and the prices reflect that,” added Cunningham.“However, the key point is that they are innovative,different – and they work.

“Word that the brand is back in the UK will spreadquickly among top match anglers and also hopefully downto casual match anglers and serious pleasure fishermen.”

Tronixpro also distributes a number of other top brands,including Evia Hart, Iridium and Asari, alongside its ownTronixpro range which boasts over 380 products.

The company has enjoyed ‘fantastic’ growth since itstarted trading less than five years ago from Cunningham’sgarage with a portfolio of just 30 products.

Cunningham added: “We have seen continuous growthevery year and have had to move premises twice to keepup with our expansion.

“Despite everything we hear to the contrary about thegeneral economy, business has been fantastic.”

For product details visit www.tronixpro.com.

An American publisher is challenginginternational tackle manufacturers tofind a more targeted route to activeUS anglers than its own portfolio ofmagazines.

J.F. Griffin Media reaches over fourmillion anglers across the US each yearand has an estimated readership inprint and online of over ten million.

It has built this audience in just eightyears thanks to partnerships withstate fish & wildlife conservation agen-cies in the US in which it improves thequality of official regulation documentsand turns them into magazine-styleannual guides. These guides are thendistributed to anglers whenever theybuy their annual fishing licences.

The magazines deliver the singlelargest print audience of anglers in thecountry. But, says the company’s DrewKelly, it is the their targeted nature thatgives them their real power.

“The distribution happens at retaillocations, at the point of purchase ofthe licence, at retailers big and small.It means the magazines are targetedto active anglers who are fishing andspending,” he says.

“The huge reach makes this acost-effective way of reaching anglersduring the year.

“That’s particularly valuable to me-dium-sized manufacturers who don’thave the budgets to advertise acrossmultiple titles in multiple markets.”

The magazines, together with thesupporting websites launched thisyear, are perfect for international busi-nesses that want to break into the USmarket, says Kelly.

He explains: “We are in a uniqueposition of being the link betweenthe state fish and wildlife agencies,the anglers and the fishing industry.This position has provided us withsome great insight into the anglers,the states and our manufacturing andretail advertising customers.”

The full range of angling andoutdoor publications can be viewedat www.eregulations.com. Foradvertising information visit thewebsite www.jfgriffin.com.

US PUBLISHER MAKES AUDIENCE PROMISE

George Cunningham says thebrand has a keen fan baseamong UK beach anglers.

Garmin, the US-based manufacturerof GPS and fish-finding systems, hasacquired the South African distributorof its products.

It has completed the acquisition ofGarmin Distribution Africa PTY, whichwill be renamed Garmin South Africa

(Pty). It will continue operations at itscurrent headquarters and warehousefacility near Johannesburg, where itemploys 70 people.

“This transaction will strengthenGarmin’s presence in this rapidlygrowing region and we look forward

to closely supporting our retailersand customers in South Africa,” saidDr Min Kao, CEO of Garmin.

“We are very pleased to completethis acquisition and welcome ourSouth African team into the Garminfamily.”

Garmin buys its South African distributor


COMMUNIQUÉ

20

Praise for Russia’s autumn showas foreign participation increases


More foreign fishing tackle manufac-turers are recognising the growingRussian market by attending thecountry’s major outdoor sports exhi-bitions. And that was certainly the case

at the autumn Hunting and Fishing in Russia event inSeptember when the show’s Deputy Director, DimitryGorodkov, announced an increase in exhibitors fromoutside its borders.

“The significant rise in foreign participation wascertainly a highlight of the show for us,” he toldAngling International.

In all 670 companies were present in Moscow –70 more than last year – and the four-dayextravaganza attracted more than 38,000 visitors –up 4,000 on the same show in 2010.

Latvia-based Salmo used the event to officiallyannounce its agreement with Svendsen Sport todistribute Okuma rods and reels and Savage Gearlures in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and the Baltic states.

The deal was first agreed in Amsterdam in June

● Low memory soft fluorocarbon● Made with a special resin blend

to be transparent for hours● Among the first leaders to

stay transparent for so long● Fast sinking and supple● Excellent abrasion

resistance andknot strength

● Makes tying knotseasier than ever

A LEADER THAT ISCLEARLY DIFFERENT

BLOOD FISHING TACKLE INTERNATIONALNo 12, Aljunied Road, KH Plaza, #05-01J, Singapore 389801Tel: (65)-68444081 Fax: (65)-68444696 Email: [email protected]

Looking fordistributorsworldwide

distributors

when the two companies met at EFTTEX.The autumn show in Moscow is becoming increas-

ingly important to Salmo as it expands its ice fishingrange of products, including suits and fishing rods.

Salmo Marketing Manager Gints Auzans toldAngling International: “It is an extremely importantevent for us.

“Although the spring show is bigger, the autumn

event is more important to us because of our growingice fishing offering.

“It is an excellent meeting point for existingcustomers. Many of them live and work a greatdistance from Moscow and only visit the capitaltwice a year to attend the shows.

“We also pick up new contacts as our customerbase continues to grow in Russia.”

As the show is also open to the public, Auzansadded it was an opportunity to meet its end usersand show them first hand Salmo’s products for theupcoming season.

For Moscow-based Extreme Fishing, the twoRussian shows are significant events on its calendar.Managing Director Vitali Pchelnikov said: “Russia isstill our biggest market and from a sales point of viewboth the spring and autumn events are important.

“Spring is the bigger and most important show asit is the one where you launch products for the newseason while the autumn event tends to be the timeto sell existing stock.”

November 2011 Angling International 21

DF GFDSG DFGHFDGHFDGHFDJDFGJGJ

Angling playing biggerrole at Miami Boat Show

The number of international exhibitors atnext year’s China Fish will be nearly 40%up on last year.

With more than three months left be-fore the event, the organisers report that98.5% of the exhibition area has alreadybeen sold out.

At the time of going to press 400Chinese companies and 39 internationalbusinesses – up 39.3% on last year –have booked booths.

China Fish President Li Jiang said:“The number of international companiesexhibiting is very positive. I have saidmany times that when the numberreaches 60% then China Fish can beregarded as a truly international show.

“We will be increasing our efforts toreach that target.”

China Fish takes place from February6th to 8th at the New China InternationalExhibition Centre, Beijing.

CHINA FISH ALMOST SOLD OUT

Recreational fishing continues to exerta growing influence on the five-dayMiami International Boat Show &Strictly Sail – the largest event of itskind in North America. Earlier this year,the show attracted more than 104,164outdoor sports enthusiasts and featuredan 80,000 sqft hall – known as The BigGame Room – dedicated to some ofthe industry’s top fishing boat manu-facturers, dealers and tackle makers.

The Big Game Room also attractsanglers who want to see what’s new,

rub shoulders with top namefishermen and attend seminars andwatch demonstrations.

Tarpon Springs, Florida-basedDeep Blue Marine Products has beenexhibiting in the Big Game Room foreight years and its President, TerryMcClory (above), says it is an excellentopportunity for the company to meetits customers and get feedback on its

products. Deep Blue MarineProducts sells a wide rangeof boat-friendly fishingitems, from rod holders tostorage boxes and McCloryadded that the show – andthe Big Game Room inparticular – is an opportu-nity to bring its portfolio toa wider audience.

He said: “We startedgoing to Miami becauseour dealers did not have

the space to show off our goods andwe wanted the general public to seeeverything we do. I would advise anycompany wanting to expand to bringits tackle inventory to the show as it ex-poses them to a nationwide audience.”

This year’s show will be takingplace from February 16th to 20th nextyear. The Miami event is organisedby the National Marine Manufactur-ers Association which runs a string ofboat shows across the US, includingthe Rosemont Sportfishing, Travel &Outdoors Show – a dominant fishing,travel and hunting event in the Chicagoarea. It takes place in Rosemont, fromJanuary 25th to 29th.


COMMUNIQUÉ

24

Bass and baits driving US sales


Bass remains the favourite quarry of NorthAmerican freshwater anglers, accordingto the latest survey of fishing trends. Inits snapshot of the habits of fishermen,research company Southwick Associates

reported that over half of freshwater anglers in theUS (53.5%) fished for largemouth or spotted bass inJuly this year.

Smallmouth bass also figured highly with over aquarter (25.6%) of anglers questioned through theSouthwick Associates AnglerSurvey.com researchorgan revealing that they targeted the species.

Other sought-after freshwater fish included panfish(32.5%), trout (22%), catfish (18.4%) and walleye(16.4%) with artificial baits (77.7%) and live baits(41.3%) the most likely attractors.

The most popular saltwater fish was flounder with32.4% of anglers fishing for the species in July 2011compared to 33.1% over the same period last year.Nearly a quarter of respondents (24.6%) were not tooworried about individual species and said that wereafter any fish that bites. Artificial baits (64.6%) live(54.3%) and dead baits (50.3%) were the mostpopular ways of attracting saltwater fish to the hook.

The survey also looked at the buying trends ofanglers in the US and found that over half boughtlures (55%), followed by terminal tackle (44.8%) andline (28%).

Hooks (71.9%), sinkers (48.1%) and swivels(27.1%) were the top terminal tackle sellers, whilemonofilament (35%) and fluorocarbon (29%) weremore popular than superline or braid (27%).

Fly leaders (42.1%), tippets (39.7%) and fly tyingmaterials (21.4%) occupied the top three places in

the table of fly fishing equipment purchased overthe period under review, while fishfinders or sonar(58.1%) and GPS or radio (42.2%) filled the topspots in the fishing electronics category.

Responses to the above categories are multipleselection and can total over 100%.

Time on the water varied significantly betweenfreshwater and saltwater anglers with 62.7% of theformer fishing during the month compared to just18% of the latter.

FISHING EQUIPMENT OTHER THAN LURES PURCHASED IN JULY 2011

25November 2011 Angling International

Appointment strengthensFirstDart in EMEA region

FirstDart hasstrengthenedits internationalsales team withthe appointmentof Jan Kolousekas European,Middle Eastand African(EMEA) SalesManager.

InternationalSales Manager

of the Singapore-based OEM line sup-plier, Sandy Ogata said: “Previously theterritory Jan will be looking after was

covered by our offices in Shanghai,Singapore and Europe. We are delightedto have him on board and able to focuson the regions exclusively.”

A keen fisherman, Kolousek is basedin Prague, in the Czech Republic, andjoins FirstDart from the IT industry.

“Jan has arrived at the right time,”said Simon Henton, Global MarketingManager at FirstDart. “Our recentlylaunched carp range is ideal for theEuropean market and makes a goodaddition to our AquaPro fly line range.Combine this with our existing OEMoffering and you can see that Jan has agreat opportunity ahead of him”

Jan Kolousek: New European,Middle East and African SalesManager at FirstDart.

WHERE DID YOU FISHIN JULY THIS YEAR?

TYPES OF FISHINGLINE PURCHASED IN

JULY IN THE USA

DISTRIBUTION OF JULY 2011ANGLER SURVEY RESPONDENTS


COMMUNIQUÉ

CGC EXPO SET TO REVERTBACK TO OCTOBER DATEOrganisers of the CGC Expo are set to move

the show to the end of October and couldcut it short by a day. Figures show that thenumber of domestic buyers increased from1,115 last year to 1,320, but the number of

foreign buyers dropped to 502 compared to 628 in 2010.Show organiser Li Jiang said: “Basically, I am satisfied

with how the show went. But the economic situation is notthat optimistic and that had an effect on the number ofinternational buyers who showed up.

“In addition it was a month earlier than last year whichmeant it fell in the middle of the sales season in China. Forthat reason we only saw an 18% increase in domestic buyers.”

The CGC proved a hit with members of the general publicwith 20,000 people attending – 5,000 more than last year.

Exhibitor numbers continue to rise with a 12% increaseon the previous year. There were 430 companies – 159from the host city Weihai – and 267 from other provincesof China in attendance.

Four foreign companies made the trip: Eagle Claw(America), Scatri/Biouse S.A.S (France), and Hyper Inc andthe Halla Group (both South Korea). Another, Italia Fish-ing srl, also attended, but was present on the stand of itsChinese partner.

Overall exhibiting area was increased 20% to 24,000 sqm.Mr Li added: “Although the buying numbers did not

increase hugely, many companies reported a good show.After speaking to exhibitors and visitors we will be revertingback to the beginning of October and we will be staying atthe Weihai International Convention Centre.

“Many exhibitors also complained that a four-day show istoo long so next year I am considering shortening it by a day.”

Mr Li also revealed that 332 companies took part in abooth selection lottery to determine where they would belocated at next year’s show. The process is designed to keepthe selection of booths more fair and open.

Mr Li added: “The response to the initiative shows thatthe CGC this year is very successful and popular.”

The American Sportfishing Associa-tion (ASA) has bought its ownheadquarters in Alexandria, Virginia.

The organisation, which representsthe interests of more than 60 millionAmerican anglers, has taken advan-tage of low real estate prices in the

US to purchase its own headquartersin the north of the city.

ASA Communications DirectorMary Jane Williamson said: “With thecurrent state of the property marketthis move represents a very goodinvestment for our membership and

in ten years’ time we will own thebuilding.”

The new mailing address is: 1001N. Fairfax Street, Suite 501, Alex-andria, VA 22314. Staff phone andfax numbers and email addressesremain unchanged.

Right: A representative of the newly namedHolly Creations –formerly Holly Kudos –

shows off one of the company’s rods.

ASA purchases new HQ in Virginia

WHAT HAS RAPALA BEEN TELLING US BASS ANGLERS? See p28


CGC VIEW FROM THE BOOTHS“It was a good showfor us in Weihai,although there werenot so many foreignbuyers as in previousyears. However, oneof the main reasonsfor us being therewas to establish adistributor for the

Chinese market and we came away with anagreement with Weihei-based fishing rodand lure maker, Crony. Our machines havebeen well received in China and we aredelighted to have signed an agreement withthe company.”Olivier Marchand, Export Manager,Scatri/Biousse

“The number of visitors is less than last yearand most of them were congregated in Hall Bwhere the Registration Desk was located.”Cong Mingri, General Manager,Weihai Haiynan Fishing Tackle Co.

“It was our first time at the show. Althoughthere did not seem to be too many peoplethere, we made some useful contacts andcame away satisfied. We are mainly an exporterso we were keen to explore the Chinese market.”Matteo Badiale, Key Account Manager,Italia Fishing srl.

”We are happy the show was held in Sep-tember because this is the best time to attractinternational buyers looking to buy productsfor next year.

“There were not many international buyersand China Fish still remains a much betteroption for export opportunities as it is a moremature show.”Zhou Vanping, General Manager, KaiyueComposite Material Technology Co.

“Our goal was to see the Chinese and weencountered a lot of interest from somequality buyers.”Jim Burton, Manager, Weihai InworldTackle Co.

CGC EXPO SET TO REVERTBACK TO OCTOBER DATE

Marukyu has signaled its commit-ment to expanding global marketswith the appointment of amarketing manager.

Nick Marlow, formerly editorof Tackle Trade World, has joinedthe company and will be promot-ing the Marukyu, Ecogear andNories brands.

John Loftus, Chairman ofMarukyu in Europe, said: “Themove shows the ambition of boththe Japanese parent companyand our own desire to grow allour brands across the UnitedKingdom and Russia as well asthe rest of Europe, Scandinavia,the Middle East and Africa.”

Olivier Marchand of ScatriBiousse: Secured Chinesedealer at the Expo.

TACKLE TRADE WORLDEDITOR JOINS MARUKYU

The CGC Show in Weihaiattracted 430 exhibitors,

a 12% rise on last year.

New US legislation set toimprove access for anglers

Plans toopen upmore than35 millionacres of US

Government-ownedland to sportsmenand women havebeen welcomedby the recreationalfishing industry. TheRecreational Fishing

and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Acthas been introduced to ensure that fishing,hunting and shooting are supported onfederal lands.

The legislation directs the Government’sland management agencies, such as the USForest Service (USFS) and the US Bureau ofLand Management (BLM) to incorporate intheir mandates the support of public accessto the nation’s land.

“While many of these agencies are mostcommonly known for their timber resourcesand energy development, federal landsalso offer tremendous recreational fishingopportunities,” said American Sportfishing

Association (ASA) Vice President, GordonRobertson.

“Unfortunately, access for traditionalrecreational activities on these lands is limitedas is public awareness of the problem.

“With lack of access being one of themost common reasons keeping anglers fromenjoying a day on the water, this newlegislation opens an opportunity toincrease sport fishing participation.”

A recent Congressional report concludedthat more than 35 million acres of landowned by the USFS and BLM offers inad-equate access to sportsmen and women.

“Recreation is the single greatest economicoutput of national forests and grasslands,with 46.5 million angers spending over $1.2billion annually to enjoy fishing on USFSlands,” said Robertson. “It is astounding thatwith such high demand, access is still abarrier for millions of anglers.

“The Act directs the USFS and BLMmanagers to not only promote recreationalfishing and hunting access, but to furthertake advantage of one of the biggesteconomic drivers for the agencies and therural communities near their lands.”

Gordon Robertson:Welcomes plans to open upmore land for fishing.


COMMUNIQUÉ

LURES UPDATES


Rapala puts US fanson red alert for new lures

Scandinavian deals:Wake’s Jose Jaakkola.

Other Scandinavian lure companies are also strengtheningtheir positions ahead of 2012, including Wake in theNordic region and Innovative Lures in Germany.

R apala has put America’s ‘topwateraddicts’ and hard-pressed dealers onred alert by announcing new detailsof two lures for 2012, which it says‘deliver topwater mayhem to Rapala

thrillseekers’. Meanwhile, Finnish lure manufacturerWake has announced new distributor deals in Swedenand Denmark that will strengthen its network in theNordic region; and Danish company Innovative Lureshas revealed yet another agreement in Europe for itspopular Jiggy Jr jerkbait.

Rapala’s breathless descriptions of the newX-Rap Pop and X-Rap Prop appear in a pre-launchannouncement designed to excite its angling fanbasein the US and drive them into stores. The lures,which are also set for the European market, ‘willbe hitting store shelves just in time to put on yourholiday wish lists,’ says Rapala.

The X-Rap Pop is designed for big splashing bass.It features a deep, cupped lip and internal texturedscales made famous by the Rapala X-Rap. “Even theslightest tug brings the X-Rap Pop to life,” says Ra-pala. It is available in six patterns and one body size.

The larger X-Rap Prop features two stainless steelprops, one in the front and one in the rear, that cre-ate a big noise and splash, while its counter-rotatingdesign stabilises and keeps the lure on track. It’sdesigned for both long and short casts – and to beirresistible to bass.

Both the X-Rap Pop and X-Rap Prop were revealedto American dealers at ICAST in Las Vegas in July. The

latest details are accompanied by thrillingdescriptions of three more lures set for US storesat the end of the year.

Rapala’s Ultra Light Minnow and Ultra Light Shadare lightweight yet designed to cast incredibly longdistances. “Their unique lip designs and ultra-lightbodies create an enticing, wobbling action whenslowly retrieved, twitched and jerked for topwaterfun, or retrieved fast for aggressive fish just under thesurface,” says Rapala.

The Jointed Deep Husky Jerk is perfect for castingor trolling, says Rapala. It features the classic Rapala‘wounded minnow’ wobble and an exaggerated tailaction that predators find difficult to refuse. Availablein eight patterns, it wakes up fish with loud rattlescreated with its jointed body and kick-tail section.

More details on all five luresare available online at www.angling-international.com.

Meanwhile, deals for Swe-den and Denmark brokered atEFTTEX 2011 have cementedWake’s position as a majorforce in the Nordic lure mar-ket. It already has a deal forNorway made at EFTTEX2010.

“We are also just a few daysaway from securing a deal for Iceland. Once that isdone, we will have a network that includes all of Scan-dinavia, Iceland and of course Finland,” Wake Manag-

ing Director Jose Jaakkola told Angling International.Since EFTTEX, Sweden’s CWC has added Wake’s

soft lures to its portfolio which already includes theoriginal hard Jigwobbler. In October Wake also agreeda deal for Denmark with distribution company 2biz.“They have taken all our lure ranges, hard, soft andJigwobbler,” says Jaakkola. “It’s a big step. Before thisdeal we were not in Denmark at all.”

Norway meanwhile is covered by a deal forJigwobbler with distribution company Seeberg.

The new deals cap a whirlwind 18 months forWake. Jaakkola says the company is on target to morethan double sales this year.

Much of the credit goes to the Jigwobbler, thehybrid which combines a jig head with a free-movingwobbler body to give it a unique swimming action.The hard Jigwobbler is currently distributed in morethan 30 countries including the whole of the EU,Russia, Japan, South Africa and the USA. This yearWake introduced a soft version of the Jigwobbler tomuch acclaim.

Worldwide interest in both Jigwobblers andother Wake lures continues to grow, says Jaakkola.“Customers often contact us about the Jigwobblerbut end up taking a much larger part of our range,”

Driving worldwide sales:Wake’s Jigwobbler.

Rapala’s Ultra Light Shadis designed for longcasting despite its size.

New for 2012: Rapala’sX-Rap Prop.

Rapala’s X-RapPop is also aimedat bass anglers.

HOW IS BERKLEY IMPROVING ITS BAITS? See p32


he says. “We actually have negotiations ongoing withdistributors in about 15 more countries. Our goal is

to grow our distribution network to cover over50 countries by the end of 2012.”

For more details on Wake and fordistribution opportunities email

[email protected] Lures has

also been extremely activesince EFTTEX. Following

news of a deal with Leedato distribute the Jiggy Jr in

the UK (see Angling Interna-tional October issue), owner Lars

Sogaard has this month announced asimilar arrangement in Germany with Think Big.

Says Sogaard: “We are delighted to confirm ThinkBig will distribute our vertical jerkbait Jiggy Jr and

our wobbler SwimTail 30mm in Germany.They will be launched in early 2012

through Think Big’s catalogue andvia active sales in shops via their

network of reps.“The InnovativeLures brand,despite beingrelatively new, is

winning worldwide attention. Our lures are nowselling in Iceland, Finland, Sweden, Denmark,Lithuania, Germany, the UK and Holland.

VIDEOONLINESee more lures in

action at angling-

international.com

Sogaard is now targeting Norway, Poland and Italy.“We know anglers in these territories are embracingour lures with much enthusiasm,” he said. “Forinstance, an angler in Norway caught a 32kg halibuton our SwingTail 25g spoon and there are severalhomemade videos on YouTube from Italy of keenanglers using our products.”

To view the Jiggy Jr in action visit www.angling-international.com and follow the link to the videossection. To discuss distribution deals [email protected].

Set for Germany: InnovativeLures’ Jiggy Jr (right) andSwimTail 30mm.


31 Jurgen Haese of German distributor,Think Big tells why the InvisaSwivel can bea carp fishing sensation.32 Frans DeCeular of Pure Fishingoutlines how its Berkley Gulp! bait brandstays ahead of the opposition and givesextra insight into the company’s newProduct Innovation Centre in Holland.33 Dynamite Baits: the brand has hardlybeen out of the news since its takeoverby Rapala. New Marketing ManagerDaryl Hodges talks about the latestdevelopments.36-37 Ockert’s Climax CULT carp line-upis laid bare, including details of what thecompany describes as ‘probably the bestinnovation in carp tackle for 2012’.40 Greys reveals details of its new

Prodigy GT5 and six new stalking rods.42 Shimano gives you a guided tour ofits brand new ‘Big Pit’ reel, the BaitrunnerXT-A LC.43 Fishouflage introduced its EuropeanCarp pattern at EFTTEX in June andhere promises more to come.44 UK-based Gardner Tackle outlines whyit can be a one-stop shop for all your carpfishing needs.45 Carp LinQ talks about its newAdjustable Heli Chod system.46 Hart has come up with a completelynew range of rods. Discover the secrets ofthe Virux...47 Old Ghost – sponsor of the World CarpClassic – promises it won’t be long beforea full launch of its carp baits for Europe.

I N S I G H T • A N A L Y S I S • N E W P R O D U C T S

CARP SPECIAL

Carp fishing remains one of themost sophisticated disciplinesin the sport.

Catching the monster fishthat cruise the world’s lakes

and waterways has never been more popularand the ways of enticing the prey havebecome a real science.

This is reflected in the massive amounttime, effort – and not a little cash – that isinvested by the major players in the marketon R&D.

Once the preserve of specialist manufac-turers who served a lucrative niche segment,it has now also become a major area ofactivity for the world’s tackle giants whohave seized on its potential.

This is reflected in the number of bignames included in this month’s bumper17-page Carp Special – all vying for yourbusiness as 2012 fast approaches.

Angling InternationalAssistant Editor,Anthony Hawkswell

Aquateko:‘Love at first sight’Love at first sight’ – that’s how Jürgen

Haese, Director of Germany-basedwholesaler and distributor, Think Big,described his initial reaction to theAquateko InvisaSwivel (below). Haese

told Angling International: “The advantages were soobvious. I mean, the whole of fishing is about ‘foolingthe fish’, eliminating every suspicious part from ourlures and baits – making them think that this meal isreal. So what could achieve this better than making itinvisible? They really are a revolution.”

Haese is equally as enthusiastic about the Knot 2Kinky Titanium Wire (pictured right). He said: “It is thehighest quality terminal tackle of its kind.

“Every fisherman appreciates a wire which he can

knot and use again and again and again. We arehaving discussions with retailers who are unsurewhether we should be selling an ordinary wireleader that will never need replacing!”

Haese first ‘fell in love’ with the Aquatekoproducts at ICAST in Las Vegas and is nowdistributing them in Think Big’s main businessstrongholds of Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

“We became aware of the products throughsome friends. Once we met the company itdid not take us long to agree to co-operate and onthe same day we had placed our initial order.”

Haese says that he is convinced that the Invisa-Swivel and Knot 2 Kinky Titanium Wire will be anoverwhelming successes in Europe.

“The obvious qualities aside, the InvisaSwivelis unbelievably strong – it will not take much topersuade even expert fishermen of the benefits. Theycan clearly see the advantage and the results speakfor themselves.”

At first, when Think Big introduced the swivelsthey were used mostly for trout and salmon. Haeseexplains: “These guys are fishing in very clear watersand every mistake will result in a lost fish. Sosomething invisible is highly appreciated.

“The next fishermen to appreciate the qualitiesof the product were those going for zander and pike

where careful presentation is key.“Catfish anglers, who try to avoid metal parts in

their lure presentation, also see the benefits.”Haese adds that carp anglers are also beginning to

turn to the InvisaSwivel in large numbers. He says:“Carp anglers are the most difficult to convince whensomething new hits the market.

“But more and more of them are using the swivelsand it’s just a matter of time before it becomes a vitalpart of a carp fisherman’s armoury.”

FEATURED INSIDE:

Make contactTel: +1 904 273 7200 Email: [email protected]: www.aquateko.com

where careful presentation is key.


CARP SPECIAL


Angling International: What exactly is the new PureFishing Product Innovation Center?Frans DeCuelaer: Based in Etten-Leur, in theNetherlands, the Product Innovation Center openedin January this year and works closely alongside itscounterpart in Spirit Lake, Iowa, USA, on a widerange of product initiatives for European-style carpfishing. There are a range of activities that take placein the lab, which include analysis along with productdevelopment and quality control.

We are also testing the reaction of fish in a tank setup to create a multitude of feeding situations. Theentire bait range is made and packaged in theproduction areas. The boilie production capacitydepends on the diameter of the baits, but we canmake between four and five tonnes a day.

What is the difference between Gulp! Carp boiliesand the rest?Real research into attractive products for carp fishingstarted in the late 1980s and most products used atthe time – flavours, enhancers and sweeteners – camefrom the food industry. Through years of experimen-tation and research into why some products are moreattractive than others, we have developed certainmolecular structures, which currently provide thatlittle bit more appeal to fish than usual. Otheringredients also play a major role. However, sciencedoes not stand still and there is always room forimprovement. We understand that and that is whywe continuously strive for that little bit extra to stayone step ahead of our rivals.

Make contactTel: +33 450 967700Email: [email protected]

What are the biggest difficulties you face when look-ing at new products?Actually, most difficulties are created by the end user.Like most sports, fishing is subject to the vagaries offashion. Every season there seems to be a new fad –be it colours, smells or even textures. However,with our experience we are able to respond to thesesituations rapidly to make specific products for achanging market.

Right from the stage of conception we take intoconsideration the different countries and cultures.We certainly would not put products on the marketthat do not meet the expectations of the end user. Ingeneral we succeed pretty well.

How does the link work between the Netherlandsand the States?Before the collaboration existed we had oftendiscussed and exchanged views on different mattersand this showed us we had a lot in common. My UScolleagues, Dr Keith Jones and John Prochnow, haveundertaken work on single molecules with good re-sults. In Europe we are one step further up the line aswe look for molecular combinations that significantlyincrease attractiveness.

We are looking to make our products moreefficient and more attractive than any other currentlyavailable. The Gulp! Carp attractant plays animportant role and has become a point of reference.It is a proven efficient cocktail with nearly 100 yearsof history and can be easily integrated into allkinds of baits.

Frans DeCeulaer, PI Director EMEA at Pure Fishing, talks about Berkley Gulp! Carp’smoves to stay ahead of the opposition using its new Product Innovation Center.

“Berkley knows baitscience doesn’t stand still”

What new products can we expect for 2012?Absolute Plum, Coco Banana, Tangerine & Fish andRed Crustacean will be added to our boilie flavours.They are available in 12mm, 16mm, 20mm and24mm and come in 1kg bags and 3kg buckets.The 12mm and 16mm are also available in 400gbags. New Red Crustacean, Tangerine & Fish,Coco Banana and Absolute Plum will be addedto the Tuna Spice, Irish Cream Seafood One andPineapple Fever Fluoro pop-ups.

The entrance to Pure Fishing’s Product Innovation Center atEtten-Leur in the Netherlands.

Inside the Center, where activities include analysis, productdevelopment and quality control.

The aquarium in the laboratory where the reaction of carp todifferent baits is tested and monitored.

“We’ve developed certainmolecular structures thatprovide that little bit moreappeal to fish.” – Frans DeCeulaer


By adding the ACE carp tackle brand to its baitbusiness, Dynamite can now service its dealerswith a full range of carp products – and it’s keento expand its network still further.

Dynamite and ACE now offertwice the rewards in carp

New in carp baitsThe carp market is expanding from Russia to Iranand includes almost all other European countries.As the UK’s largest boilie manufacturer, Dynamite isperfectly poised to capitalise on this expanding globalmarket thanks to its greater distribution and increasedproduct range.

New for 2012 from Dynamite are products devel-oped with the expanding continental market in mind.This dynamic new range includes three top qual-ity boilie flavours – Spicy Peanut, GLM and WhiteChocolate & Coconut which, says Dynamite, havealready produced outstanding results.

With Terry Hearn, Dynamite has also introduceda ‘really clever’ new boilie that is a perfectly balancedbottom bait which ensures perfect presentation andalmost guaranteed hook-ups. Adds Dynamite: “Alsonew for 2012 and sure to be a hit in Europe andfurther afield are the 30mm catfish/carp hookbaits.These durable pellets were designed specifically withcatfish in mind, but in tests were so good they wereadapted to suit the carp market. They have also beencatching other species over 10kg.”

All of the new products are available now. To viewthem visit www.dynamitebaits.com or see overleaf.

New in carp tackleFollowing the recent acquisition of the ACE carpbrand, Dynamite Baits is now totally focused oncementing and expanding not one but two high endbrands in carp fishing – and not just in Europe butglobally.

With its strong following in many countries on thecontinent, Dynamite is perfectly placed to expandits offering with the introduction of ACE carp tacklethroughout the UK and 15 other countries fromJanuary 1st 2012.

If you are interested in becoming a global stockist please contact yourcountry’s distributor directly or contact [email protected]

Daryl Hodges, Export Sales and MarketingManager, told Angling International: “We havereceived a fantastic reception for ACE and withboth Dynamite and ACE products now beingdistributed from one central location, we are ableto really give our customers what they need.

“At the same time we can save on expensivedistribution costs – ensuring good margin ismaintained for the retailer.”

The aim of the ACE brand is to create a highvalue, fast moving and high margin range ofproducts that anglers worldwide will return tobuy over and over again.

Adds Hodges: “With more than150 current products and ambitiousnew product development plansled by one of the greatest productdevelopment masters, Max Cottis,and one of the greatest carp anglers,Terry Hearn, the message is clear:watch this space!

“Exciting new products will beready for January 2012 and you canbe sure the thinking behind themand the quality will be second to none.”

Adds Terry Hearn: “I never settlefor second best with my carp fishingand I know that where productdevelopment is concerned Max feelsexactly the same.”

ACE is a high value brand aimedat offering thinking carp anglersinnovative ideas. To view productsvisit www.acecarp.com.

Austria: THALINGER LANGE GMBH +43 7242 497 271 p.hochschartner@

thalinger-lange.com; Canada: CARP KIT INTERNATIONAL +19 058 787 554

[email protected]; Czech Rep: NORMARK S.R.O +420 266310 218 sirucka@

normark.cz; Denmark: DYNAMITE BAITS LIMITED +44 115 9899060 daryl@

[email protected]; England: SHIMANO NORMARK UK LTD +44 330 333

4888 [email protected]; Estonia: NORMARK EESTI OÜ +37 2611

7081 [email protected]; France: RAPALA FRANCE SAS +33 384 573 093

[email protected]; Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia, Serbia, Macedonia,

Bulgaria: NORMARK HUNGARY +36 1 206 07 02 [email protected]; Iran: COLDON

FISHING TACKLE STORE +98 2133 96 3033 [email protected]; Ireland: GOWEN &

BRADSHAW +35 391 483 100 [email protected]; Latvia: SIA NORMARK LATVIA

+371 67 67 22 75 [email protected]; Lithuania: NORMARK UAB LITHUANIA

+370 37 457 144 [email protected]; Poland: NORMARK POLSKA SP.

Z.O.O. +48 22 751 09 80 [email protected]; Portugal: NORMARK

PORTUGAL SA +351 214 851 202 [email protected]/jp@rapalalatin.

com; Romania: SC Normark Sport Romania +40 214050 007 dorel.tomescu@

normark.ro; Russia: ZAO NORMARK +7 495 775 3732; Sweden: JBE SWEDISH

SPORTFISHING +46 730 558 166 [email protected] & TACKLEDESIGN BY

BROMANADELL +46 409 158 00 [email protected]; South Africa:

RAPALA VMC SOUTH AFRICA +27 11 794 6950 [email protected];

Spain: NORMARK SPAIN SA +34 91 848 7580 janne.paukkunen@normark.

es/[email protected]; Ukraine: NORMARK UKRAINE +380 44 58 52 993

[email protected]; USA: BIG CARP TACKLE LLC +1 918 331 9047

[email protected]; Holland, Belgium & Germany: DYNAMITE BAITS

LIMITED +44 115 9899060 [email protected]

DYNAMITE WORLDWIDE WHOLESALERS


CARP SPECIAL


Building on its reputation for the best quality German-made line, Climax hasre-energised its Cult brand to create a range of unbeatable braids, fluorocarbonand leaders. “We now have the perfect carp lines,” it says.

Carp fishing has enjoyed a cult followingfor years, but the specialised branchof the sport has never been as popularas it is today. German manufacturerOckert has been making carp fishing

tackle for many years, but in response to continuedgrowth in the sector, last year completely renewed itsrange with a series of state-of-the-art products underits Climax CULT brand.

The Climax brand itself was established inGermany in 1949 and over the last 62 years it hasbecome synonymous with top quality line. Its linesare developed and braided in Germany and regardedat the very top of the sector. The company is rightlyproud of its rich heritage and its reputationas a line manufacturer.

The CULT brand is the latest in a wide range ofquality innovations from Climax and the companysays: “You will find everything for successful carp fish-ing. We have the perfect carp lines – monofilaments,braids and fluorocarbon – innovative leader materialsfor all sorts of applications and proven ‘ready-maderigs’ as well as tools.

The headline improvement to its range for 2012is the introduction of the brand new Climax CULTSinking Mainline Braid. “It is everything that an anglerwould want in a sinking braid and is a truly innova-tive product. It is miles away from the usual sinkingblends on offer,” says Ockert Managing Director JanWillenbruch.

He adds: “It has the combination of four featuresthat other lines do not have – high breaking strain,low diameter, high abrasion resistanceand the ability to sink right down.”

Climax says it is probably the ‘best innovation incarp tackle for 2012’. The ultra-strong fibre is said

Make contactTel: +49 89 894 0830Email: [email protected]: www.ockert.net

to give this line the most superior LB/diameter ratioever seen amongst sinking mainline braids for carpangling.

Pristine 8-fibre braiding technology and a perfectlybalanced picks-count create a super-round profile,suppleness and reduced friction for silent casts at thelongest possible distances.

Climax is also equally unequivocal about theproperties of its CULT Fluorocarbon and says: “Formainline or rig making, the brand new CULTFluorocarbon is without doubt the ideal line to use.Unlike conventional fluorocarbons on the market, itis very supple and has a very well balanced memory.

“It consequently casts further and boasts betterknot strength than others.”

Thanks to its high density, the line quickly sinksto the ground and with its ‘discreet’ shade of olive, itperfectly blends into the lakebed.

‘PERFECT’ CLIMAX CULTRANGE GIVES CARPERSCOMPLETE CHOICE

“Climax CULT Sinking MainlineBraid is everything that anangler would want. It is milesaway from the usual sinkingblends on offer.” – Jan Willenbruch

Brand new CULT Lead Core leader material that isvery soft and abrasion resistant has been added for2012. It is available in three new colour patterns –weed, silt and gravel – and ranges from 25lb to 45lb.Anglers can choose CULT Lead Core either on spoolsor as various ready-made rigs.

Next there are the brand new CULT Sinking HookLinks. All eight braids come in four different colourpatterns and range between 20lb and 30lb. Theyboast a very soft surface, are perfectly round and sinknaturally onto the riverbed.

Finally, the CULT Skin Braids that use the Sinking

Hook Links as core material are a ‘must-have inevery tackle box’. Designed to make your mostinconspicuous rig tangle-free, they are coatedwith a highly abrasion-resistant, removable andtangle-free skin.

The Skin Braids have excellent knot strengthand the coating does not rupture.


‘PERFECT’ CLIMAX CULTRANGE GIVES CARPERS

ALSO IN THE CULT LINE-UP FOR 2012

The stars of the 2012 range(clockwise from top right):CULT Lead Core leadermaterial; the brand new CULTSinking Hook Link andCULT Skin Braid; the ‘trulyinnovative’ CULT SinkingMainline Braid; and the high-distance CULT Fluorocarbon.

WHAT’S THE SECRET OF SHIMANO’S NEW BAITRUNNER? See p42

● CULT Carp-Line Said to be made of the best rawmaterials for stability and increased life span.● CULT Extreme A mainline for extreme situationsthat demand everything from your tackle. The12-times more abrasion-resistant monofilament lineis super soft, has a smooth surface and comes in anolive-satin colour.● CULT Dyna Splice Made from 100% pureDyneema® fibres and perfect for a variety of rigs.● CULT Duramax Leader An extremely smooth andfive-times more abrasion-resistant shock leader madeof braided Dyneema® fibre. It creates a perfect combi-nation with Climax CULT Extreme.● CULT Heavy Metal Core Instead of a normal leadcore, this uses a metal alloy that does not burdenwaters, says Climax.● CULT Bait Floss This soft Dyneema® fibre isfloating and almost invisible, making it an ideal threadfor natural acting standard and loop rigs with pop-upboilies. It can be used in conjunction with ClimaxCULT Hunters Braid.● CULT Tungsten Leader A top class carp leader fea-turing a fast-sinking tungsten coating. It is suitable foronline and bolt rigs in muddy waters and for shy fish.● CULT Clear Leader With its extra-smooth softcoat, this top quality leader sinks and virtuallydisappears on the riverbed. It is suitable for bothinline and bolt rigs, and is a perfect choice for clearwater and for shy fish.● CULT Heavy Metal Leader A non-toxic, ready-madebolt rig which features an abrasion-resistant sheathfor difficult waters.● CULT Tungsten Chod Rig A ready-made rig thatmeets the highest demands of the modern carpangler. The heavy tungsten coating sinks slightly intoweeds and presents pop-up boilies on the top.The lead is far enough so as not to drag and hidethe boilie in the lakebed.● CULT Helicopter Rig This rig’s unique aerodynamicproperties give a decisive advantage for extremedistance casting. A free rotation device avoids tangles.● CULT Shrink Tube Careful steaming of this tubewill shrink it by 50% and make it ideal for various rigs,including line-aligner rigs.● CULT Splicing Needle A tool for making knotlessconnections or rigs using Lead Core, Dyna Splice orother materials.● CULT Splicing Needle Refill A six-piece refillpack for Cult Splicing Needles.

Above: The four different colour patterns for the CULT Sinking Hook Links.


CARP SPECIAL


The Prodigy GT5 takes full advantage of the company’sadvances in composite technology. And there is good newsfor entry level carpers too with the introduction of the brandnew Prodigy GT3 to replace the Prodigy SX.

Greys has ‘gone back to the drawing board’ inan effort to improve upon its popular ProdigyPlus range and create, what it believes, is thebest performing Prodigy carp rod yet. Usingcutting-edge composites technology, the

new Prodigy GT5 range is designed to appeal to serious carpanglers, especially those that favour modern and powerfuloverhead casting styles. “The result is a new blank designedfrom the ground up to improve every aspect of perfor-mance,” asserts the company.

Greys has also subtly tweaked the tip design to improverecovery speed, saying this gives the rod a crisp and respon-sive feel normally associated with ultra high-end carp rods.

“Of course, you will still find the smooth, progressiveProdigy action that cushions lunging fish yet gives plenty ofpower and control when needed,” it adds.

And nor do the improvements end there. Visually, theProdigy GT5 is equally high-end (see rod pictured topbelow). It boasts a resin-rich Carbon Armour® blank finish,Greys’ exclusive new DPS Carbon-Hybrid reel seat, a slimshrink-wrap handle and balanced stainless butt cap.

Greys has also improved its offering to entrylevel carp anglers with the brandnew Prodigy GT3 range,which replaces

Make contact Tel: +44 1665 602771Email: [email protected]: www.greysfishing.com

the Prodigy SX. Says Greys: “We’ve subtly tweaked the blankdesign and materials to provide increased performance.

“The classic progressive action of the blank has beenretained with power in reserve for punching leads and PVAbags out to the horizon. Along with this formidable castingperformance is a refined and smooth top section that ensuresplenty of control no matter what size fish you’re targeting.”

The slim profile blank of the Prodigy GT3 is complementedby a Greys-style DPS reel seat, full Japanese shrink-wraphandle and gunmetal anodised collars and butt cap.

“The GT3 is a worthy successor to the Prodigy name anddemonstrates perfectly our aim to produce performance carprods that are affordable, practical and cater to the needs oftoday’s dedicated carp anglers,” adds Greys. “As for the GT5,we think it could be the ultimate Prodigy carp rod.”

Both the GT5 and GT3 will be availableto go on sale in early December.

GREYS ANNOUNCESBEST EVER PRODIGYRODS FOR CARP AND THERE’S MORE CHOICE

FOR STALKERS TOO...The Chub and Greys brands haveintroduced six new stalking rodsbetween them for 2012.

•• Chub Outkast Plus 6ftStalking 2.75lbPerfect for fishing undisturbed andovergrown tight swims, this rod’sone-piece 6ft construction means itcan be stored alongside standardcarp rods ‘just in case’.•• Chub Outkast Plus 9ftStalking 2.5lbWhether you are in a tight ‘hit andhold’ snaggy swim or flicking outlight controllers or float rigs at closerange, this ultra-versatile rod has itcovered, says Chub.•• Chub Outkast Plus 10ftStalking 2.5lbBridges the gap between dedicatedstalking rods and shorter conven-tional lightweight carp rods. A trulyversatile rod for anglers on the moveand fishing a variety of swims.•• Greys Stalking 7ftThe perfect tool for close quarter bigfish hunting has been upgraded to2.75lb but, most importantly, saysGreys, this power comes into playprogressively through the lowersection. This allows the angler tocontrol large fish with enough shockabsorption to prevent hook pulls.•• Greys Stalking 9ftOne of the most versatile rods in therange, the Greys Stalking 9ft is per-fect for a variety of methods fromlight leads and PVA bags to close-insurface or float fishing.•• Greys Surface Stalking 12ftDesigned as a dedicated surfacerod, it is also suited to a numberof different situations. Like theothers in the range it is finishedin sleek matt black and fitted outwith a quality cork handle, slimlineGreys reel seat, robust double-legSIC guides and gunmetal anodisedcollars and butt cap.


CARP SPECIAL


What’s under the skin of the XT-A LC that makes it sucha vast improvement on the original Big Baitrunner LC?Shimano’s developers offer an exclusive guided tour.

The original Big Baitrunner LC had anunsurpassed reputation as the defini-tive ‘Big Pit’ reel. In fact, says Shimano,it started the trend for big reels about15 years ago. Now its replacement, the

sleek, modern XT-A LC, is set to enhance thereputation of the reliable workhorse even further.

Chris de Haan, Shimano Product Developer, hasgiven Angling International an exclusive rundown ofthe new-look Baitrunner and the thinking behind itsdramatic redevelopment.

He takes up the story: “The Big Baitrunner LC reelis highly regarded among fishermen because it willnever let you down. Whether you are fishing your localwater or going abroad to catch the biggest of fish,anglers can always be sure that the Baitrunner LC willstand its ground.

“However, after being on the market for so manyyears, we decided to upgrade the LongCast with ourlatest technologies.

“When we started redeveloping it we set the targetto come up with a totally new design, but to keep thestrong image of its predecessor.

Make contactTel: +31 341 27 2233 Email: [email protected]: www.shimano.com

“To give it a better line lay, we changed the oscilla-tion system to the latest Aero Wrap II. Looking at themarket, there are not many free spool reels that use aworm shaft to oscillate the spool. By utilising one it ispossible to use a long nose spool similar to a spool ona big pit reel.

“The oscillation speeds went down by adding moregears internally and the line lay has improved –resulting in a superior casting performance.

“Many internal parts are made stronger and runsmoother with the use of shielded AR-B ball bearings.The cap bail is replaced by a cone type that directsthe line more easily to the line roller.

“When we introduced the smaller size Big Pit reelsa couple of years ago, we noticed an increasing de-mand for smaller-sized big spool reels for the carp andcoarse fishing markets. Therefore two sizes of the BTRLC have been developed and are in the shops now.

“The new Big and Medium Baitrunner XT-LCwill steal the hearts of many anglers and exceed itsrenowned reputation.”

Alijn Danau (above), a member of Shimano’s In-ternational Team Tribal, thoroughly tested the reel in

REVEALED!SHIMANO’S NEWBIG BAITRUNNER

BBTRXTALCWeight: 790gGear ratio: 4.6:1Line capacity: 0.35mm/550mBearings: 5 x S-ARB + rollerbearing

MBTRXTALCWeight: 615gGear ratio: 5.3:1Line capacity: 0.35mm/290mBearings: 5 x S-ARB + 1 rollerbearing

THE TWO SIZESAVAILABLE IN STORE

Shielded AR-B ball bearingsMany internal parts are made stronger and runsmoother with the use of shielded AR-B ball bearings.The cap bail is replaced by a cone type that directsthe line more easily to the line roller.

May and June. He says: “During that time I hookedand landed 38 fish – plenty to come up with a verdicton the new reels. The new Baitrunner easily met myhigh expectations. I really could not find even onedisadvantage compared to the previous version.

“I have always been a fan of the Baitrunner XTLongCast – and use those reels for all my foreign trips– but without any doubt I will be replacing all four ofthem with this new version! The XT has been scruti-nised big time and all points where even the slightestimprovement was possible have been addressed.”

Aero Wrap II oscillation systemSwitching to Aero Wrap II gives the new reel a better line lay. “Thereare not many free spool reels that use a worm shaft to oscillatethe spool. By utilising one it is possible to use a long nose spoolsimilar to a spool on a big pit reel,” says Chris de Haan.

More internal gearsThis takes the oscillation speed down and improves theline lay, resulting in a superior casting performance.


Europe’s carpelite embracesFishouflage

For as long as there havebeen fishing stories, anglershave adorned themselveswith a variety of fishingattire. From lucky hats to

lucky hooks and favourite trousers andshorts – every angler around the worldseems to have his own signature look.

The common thread that has alwaysheld them together is their passion fortheir time on the water in pursuit oftheir favourite fish.

That same time on the waterspurred a conversation one autumnday and ultimately sparked an idea.The idea grew into a collection of like-minded sportsmen who shared a vision– and Outdoor Identities was born.

That vision took on many formsthroughout development, from sketch-es on the back of napkins to late nighttelephone calls: Outdoor Identities andFishouflage took on lives of their own.

They were driven by passion, thesame passion that drives anglerseverywhere to rise before dawn, to gothat extra mile for a good bite, or putin that extra prep time to succeed onthe water.

That same passion is what ties allfishermen together and our commonthread finally has its own colour.

Fishouflage says: “With the passionfor fishing stronger than ever, anglerscan finally unite and make a ‘PassionStatement’ for the love of their sportwith a camo all of their own.”

It adds that Fishouflage was proudto introduce its new European Carppattern at EFTTEX in Amsterdam in

June. “Professional carp anglers, mediaoutlets and retailers from aroundEurope were stunned by the realismand visual impact of the pattern.

“The hefty carp moving throughthe true greens in the vegetation drewspontaneous compliments from theopinion leaders in the carp fishingindustry. The overwhelming reactionwas – ‘you got it right!’

“The pattern is meant to be worn onthe bank or the street as a statement ofone’s fishing identity – ‘for the love ofthe sport’.”

The first performance apparel will beavailable to distributors from Fishou-flage in December. The initial offeringwill be shorts and caps and will soonbe followed by rainwear and umbrellas.

“Be sure to watch out for the newPlano boxes in the Carp pattern aswell,” says Fishouflage.

Luggage, waders and much more areexpected – ‘for the love of the sport!’

Make contact Tel: +1 920-757-1188Email: [email protected] Web: www.fishouflage.com

The European Carp pattern will feature onaccessories (above) and apparel (bottom).


CARP SPECIAL


After more than 30 years of innovation, the UKspecialist can now offer more than 1,000 items underits own brand plus tackle from other UK brands.“We’re a single source of product,” it says proudly.

Gardner Tackle has been developingand manufacturing specialist carp andcoarse fishing equipment since 1980,setting itself apart with the sheernumber of truly innovative products

designed and marketed by founder and ManagingDirector, Richard Gardner.

Many of these products are taken for granted byfishermen today, but were a massive leap forward atthe time.

These have included the first solid pointed bank sticks,the ‘revolutionary’ Rolaball bait making equipment,rod pods – another Gardner invention – buzzer barsand the very first commercially manufactured spods.

Other ‘firsts’ that Gardner says changed theangling world forever were PVA string, black leads,

Make contactTel: +44 1483 560048Email: [email protected]: www.gardnertackle.co.uk

boilies and stringer needles, baitdrills, hair stops and Rig Bins – toname just a few.

Since those very early days thecompany and the range of tacklethat it manufactures and supplieshas expanded enormously. It nowoffers a catalogue that includes wellover 1,000 items sold under theGardner Tackle brand name alone.

Many of the company’s prod-ucts are still made at the GardnerTackle HQ in Guildford, Surrey,or elsewhere in the UK, includingall of the metalware – pods, banksticks, buzzer bars, baitmakingequipment, pocket rockets, all itsready-tied rigs and the longstand-ing TLB buzzers.

As well as the very popular Covert hook and termi-nal ranges, Gardner Tackle also sells a range of highquality luggage, Dyneema braids, specialist hooks,PVAs and much more – including its highly regardedcopolymer and fluorocarbon monofilament lines.

The company says: “Our range of tackle isconstantly evolving and improving and thisno-compromise policy of quality and reliability hasearned us a strong reputation with all kinds ofanglers throughout the world.

“In addition to the core Gardner range, our tradecatalogue also includes products that we distributeon behalf of other premium UK tackle and baitmanufacturers. These include the popular productsfrom Enterprise Carp Company, Mistral baits andJohn Roberts tackle.

“We are also very proud to be sole worldwidedistributor of the highly-acclaimed range from ATT,including ATT’s alarms and ATTx remotes, pagersystems and the brand new ‘Neville backs’ – andthere are some exciting new products in the pipeline.

“By giving all our customers access to all theseproducts through a single catalogue we are able tooffer a single, very comprehensive and convenientsource of fishing tackle and bait. This also means it iseasier for shops to build up turnover discount as thisrelates to total spend, not just spend on the Gardnerbranded products.

GardnerTacklewidens itsrangetostayahead

“There is also the added advantage of saving ontransport costs by combining everything in one order.”

Gardner says it backs this up with a totalcommitment and dedication to good service. It adds:“What is the point of working with companies thatare rarely able to fulfill an order?

“We work hard to maintain exceptionally highlevels of stock availability and are currently able tosupply over 90% of the trade catalogue.

“Turn-around times on most orders are extremelyquick and there are some excellent transport dealsavailable. These vary between countries, so pleasecontact the office for more information about theseand our full tradingterms – including abreakdownof the annualturnover discountstructure.”

Internationalsales are conductedby Michele Gardnerand she can becontacted usingthe informationbelow.

Above: Quality control is key in Gardner’s UK factory.Below left: A well-stocked warehouse means Gardner can fulfillorders from its new catalogue (below) quickly and efficiently.

Classic innovation: the‘revolutionary’ Rolaball

bait making equipment.


WHAT HAS HART CREATED FOR NEWCOMERS TO CARP FISHING? See p46

Carp LinQ impresses withnew adjustable helicopter rigThe Adjustable Heli Chod system from Carp

LinQ is said to be a safe and ideal way ofmaking helicopter rigs. The system consistsof two short silicon sleeves to act as stop-pers (top right). They are tapered at both

ends with a soft bead on the top. In the event of a linebreak the tapered end of the sleeve allows the helicopterswivel to pass through any leader knots it may encoun-ter without any problems because of the large borediameter of the beads.

An advantage of the sleeves being short is that it isimpossible for them to stick out from the bottom whenthe rig hits an obstacle or the gravel bed.

Anglers are also able to adjust the distance betweenthe two stopper beads to improve the presentation ofthe Heli Chod system. The Heli Chod system comes inthree colours – Translucent Green, Translucent Brownand Translucent Gravel.

Carp LinQ has also added several types of artificiallures to its assortment, including pop-up corns andpop-up boilies that are available in pink, white, red and

yellow (right, centre). The company says that its CarpLinQ Liquid Wire hooklink and leader has created a stirin the market. The new type of braid is ‘super’ heavy likea leadcore leader, while being super soft – ideal for mak-ing leader and rigs.

Since its introduction in 2007 by PT Central SaranaPancing, the Carp LinQ range has grown steadily andestablished a reputation for its quality.

PT Central says that it consults with European carpspecialists during its product development and hasinvested heavily in human resources to create a team thatunderstands the high standards of carp fishing and canproduce tackle that meets the exact needs of the angler.

Make contact Tel: +62 21 5961265 Email: [email protected]: www.relixfishing.com www.carplinqfishing.com


CARP SPECIAL


Five new reel models plus an extensive line-up ofaccessories add strength to a range designed toappeal to both newcomers and expert anglers.

Hart says that its designers have comeup with another groundbreakinginnovation. They have introduceda complete range of rods under theVirux name which they believe will

exceed the highest expectations of carp fishingenthusiasts everywhere – from those just startingout right up to the most demanding angler.

The rods are said to feature the very latest inmarket trends with fine quality graphites, 50mmstripper guides, Fuji components, camouflagefinishes, butts with an ergonomic grip – and blanksof the very finest diameters.

Hart says that its power range covers all expectationsand fishing situations. Its parabolic yet sweet andprogressive tip action allows for long casting distance.

“For guaranteed success when fighting the largestspecimens you can work with no fear of tearing thedelicate mouths of the fish,” adds Hart.

The range includes the Virux Strike, a starter rodthat has an excellent quality/price ratio, the light-weight but powerful Virux Sabotage and the ViruxArmada and Virux Black Ammo that both boast‘completely awesome’ features.

The corresponding reel collection comprisesfive models that will meet the needs of

all carp anglers – the V1,

Make contactTel: +34 9438 20033 Email: [email protected] Web: www.evia.es

V1BF, V2, V3BF and VStrike. They are all lightweightbut powerful reels that feature the very latesttechnology.

Made from ultra-light graphite and aluminium,they are corrosion-resistant, have stainless steel ballbearings and come with or without a double discdrag and clutch.

“There is also nothing lacking in the rangeof small accessories,” continues Hart. “Theseinclude the latest trends in the sector, such asscented weights coated with natural seaweedor sawdust, perfectly mimicking theirsurroundings while proving to be highlyattractive to fish.”

The Virux collection is completed with anextensive line-up of large accessories – chairs,bedchairs, umbrellas, covers, landing matsand fish holders – and ‘exquisitely designed’,fine quality purpose bags to go alongside thealarm and receiver sets and rod pods.

“In short, this qualityrange of products nowjoins the great Hartfamily – a family thatguarantees reliabilityand quality,” saysthe company.

Hart targets carperseverywhere withnew Virux rods

Above: Part of the new range of Virux reels. Below: The entrylevel Virux Strike in camo finish; more from the Virux rangewhich extends to large accessories and electronics.

Above: Part of the new range of Virux reels. Below: The entry


WHY ARE THEY KEEPING THE EFTTEX ENTRY FEE? See p51

After impressing competitors at the World CarpClassic and distributors in tests on European waters,the Chinese bait company is set for a full launch.“The whole market is waiting” says President Yi Zhe.

Old Ghost has takenanother major steptowards a full Europeanlaunch of its carp baitsafter impressing competi-

tors at the World Carp Classic in France.In a separate move, potential distribu-

tors in 20 countries have also receivedand tested their first consignments of OldGhost baits, a key stage in the develop-ment process, according to Old GhostPresident and chief bait developer Yi Zhe(pictured opposite third left withcompetitors at the World Carp Classic).

The baits were also put on show at theCGC Expo in Weihai in September to pro-mote them to those international buyersnot yet aware of Old Ghost’s ambitions in Europe.

After a dramatic introduction to the Europeanmarket at EFTTEX in June where Old Ghost’s Fresh-keeping Hookbait Sausage won the Best NewHookbait Award, if anything the pace of the launchof Old Ghost’s baits in Europe is quickening.

As a sponsor of the World Carp Classic, Old Ghostsupplied almost two tons of bait to over 300 anglersfrom 27 countries. Says Yi Zhe: “The World CarpClassic was the first time European anglers had comeinto close contact with Old Ghost products. Ourbaits, especially the Double-layered Boilies and the

Fresh-keeping Hookbait Sausage, greatly surprisedthe anglers at the event. Some of them told us theywere the best baits they have ever seen. They couldn’tbelieve baits of such quality existed.

“We even had some previous years’ champions ofthe event hooked on our baits. They have offered tohelp test our products and eventually become Old

Make contactTel: +86 27 8756 1355 Email: [email protected]: www.oldghostbait.com

Ghost sponsored anglers. That has delighted us. It’sso heartening to receive such praise from talentedanglers. We’re honoured they love our products.”

Yi Zhe revealed that, besides impressingcompetitors, Old Ghost’s appearance at the WorldCarp Classic has led to distributors in severalcountries enquiring about the baits, notably fromthe Czech Republic, South Africa, Romania, the UKand the Netherlands.

“Nearly every day, especially after the World CarpClassic, we have been receiving calls and emails fromdistributors asking about cooperation, or from tackleshops and anglers asking where to buy our products.

“Awareness about our baits has grown incredibly inEurope over the summer.”

Potential distributors have also had the chanceto test the baits in European conditions – withencouraging results. “We sent samples to ourintended distributors in 20 countries at the end ofAugust,” says Yi Zhe. “Generally speaking, the resultshave been positive.

“Some experienced distributors are in no doubtthat these baits will succeed in Europe and are eagerto have anglers enjoying them as soon as possible.And we have had encouragement from further afieldtoo. Our intended distributors in the USA and

OLD GHOST BAITSPASS FIRST TESTSIN EUROPE

“Awareness about ourbaits has grown incrediblyamongst European anglersover the summer.” – Yi Zhe

Russia, for example, are consideringsetting up a new company solelydealing with Old Ghost products.”

The baits, however, are still beingimproved. Yi Zhe and his team are nowworking through feedback from theEuropean tests in readiness for the fulllaunch.

“Some distributors have given usreally good practical advice, such as toseriously consider the local price levelfor baits,” explained Yi Zhe. “Also, wehave been advised to develop someproducts especially for bream, roachand tench. This is an essential part ofthe process, to hear about potential

problems from distributors and to work themthrough. That’s what the testing is all about.”

The testing has also served to reassure distributorsabout the serious nature of Old Ghost’s intentions inEurope, adds Yi Zhe. “They need to have fullconfidence in our products and our processes,” hesaid. “We are happy that we can say we tested thesebaits thoroughly.

“In the following few months we will stay incontact with our intended distributors and we willlisten to their opinions as we improve existingproducts and develop new ones.

“We are winning more and more recognitionamongst buyers. The whole market is waitingexpectantly now. The question on everyone’s lips is,where can I buy Old Ghost baits in Europe? And itwon’t be long before we deliver the answer…”

Russia for example, are considering

German fly fishing reel brandVosseler is no stranger to pick-ing up awards for its products.The company won its sixthaward when its Tryst reel beat

its rivals in the Best New Fly Reel category atEFTTEX in Amsterdam.

Delighted company owner and ManagingDirector Ralf Vosseler says that the awards arethe ‘flagships’ which demonstrate the com-pany’s innovative ability. “An award like thisraises the profile of the company – peopletake notice,” he told Angling International.

Included in the company’s role of honourare two EFTTEX awards, one commendedand the prestigious reddot design award forthe Vosseler Flytying Vice.

“It is very satisfying to come home froma show like EFTTEX with an award that hasbeen recognised by an international jury of

experts. The judgeshave all been in theindustry for a longtime, have a greatdeal of experienceand know what theyare talking about.”

However, RalfVosseler acceptsthat awards are not

a short cut to success. He adds: “They meannothing unless you have the infrastructurewithin your company to back the productsup with good quality service.”

Vosseler is based in Talheim, in southernGermany, where it designs, develops,machines and finishes its own brandedproducts and reels for its OEM business inits state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

The Tryst reel is the latest innovation tocome off the production line and RalfVosseler says that he is always looking to de-velop another EFTTEX winner. But he adds:“It is never easy. We are up against qualitycompetitors like Hardy & Greys, Sage,G.Loomis and Wychwood –they are goodcompanies who do not sit on their laurels.”

Vosseler takes a pragmatic approach tonew product development. He says: “Thecompany does not have 5,000 euros a monthto pay a design engineer – it would break ourprice points.

“I love fishing and have a good feel for aproduct, but it is no good designing a reelthat I like. You have to be in touch with themarket. It is my job to take notice of whatthe market expects.

“After a day’s fishing with friends we oftensit down in the garden and discuss over aglass of wine how the day went and how we

VOSSELER ALREADY PLANNINGNEXT WINNING FLY REEL

BEST NEW FLY REELVOSSELER TRYST REEL

Above: A delighted RalfVosseler with the awardand winning Tryst reel.Below: The Vosselerbase in Talheim,Germany. “We areonly a couple of hoursaway from anywhere inEurope,” reminds Ralf.

B

EST NEW

FLY REE

L

WINNER

could have made it better. In our factory wehave the very latest technology and knowexactly what we can do.”

OEM provides around 30% of the com-pany’s business and Vosseler says that its‘Made in Germany’ products can competeagainst the best the Far East has to offer.

He says: “It’s easier for customers to visitus – we are only a couple of hours away fromanywhere in Europe. It is much more con-venient than travelling all the way to China.

“We pick up our customers, take themto our factory and discuss their needs. Aftera couple of days fishing with them we haveprototypes of what they are looking for.

“We also score on customer service.Customers tell us after two or three years theyhave problems getting spare parts for a reelmade in the Far East. We can still supply bitsfor models we built 15 years ago. That sort ofservice builds up trust with the company.”

Being based in central Europe also meansthat Vosseler can provide shorter lead timescompared to the Far East, while dealing withthe manufacturer gives the company moreaccountability. It is a business plan that hasbrought success in the past and looks set tocontinue in the future.

“We know exactly what we can do,” says ManagingDirector Ralf Vosseler after victory for his Tryst reel.

W H A T N E X T F O R T H E 2 0 1 1 A W A R D W I N N N E R S

BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARD


T: +49 7464 978 597E: [email protected]: www.vosseler.com

C O N TA C T

SPONSORSHIP. WHO’S DOING IT AND WHY? See p24

November 2011 Angling Trade International 49

The refusal of the fly fishingspecialists at Ockert to accepta simple solution to a problempaid stunning dividends for thecompany at EFTTEX. The result

meant Climax SFT Super Fine Tip Fly Lineswere voted the Best New Fly Line in theEFTTEX Best New Products Awards 2011.

Ockert Export Manager ChristianRademann said that the growing popularityof nymph fishing has given rise to variousspecialised techniques in France, the CzechRepublic and Spain: “What all these tech-niques have in common is the use of extra-long leaders. These are built on a lightweightfly line core which feature an extended five-metre front taper and ultra-fine tip section.

“Commonly used WF or DT lines with astandard front taper are comparatively heavyin their entire tip. The weight creates a bellyhanging from the rod tip to where the leaderdives into the water surface and induces drag,constraining the drift of the nymphand reducing contact.

Ockert fills gap in nymphfishing sector withlightweight line

“On these first five metres, the Climax Su-per Fine Tip lines have up to 60% less weightthan any other fly lines and demonstrably cre-ate less belly drag and better contact whichallows you to fish more effectively.”

Another new addition to the company’srange is the Climax miG Extreme Braid – theresult of years of experience and Germantechnology.

The high performance braided line hasbeen designed for predator fishing, includingpike, bass, sea bass and sea trout. Highlightfeatures include:

• Pure Dyneema fibres and micro braidingfor extremely high breaking strain and knotstrength.• Thermofixation for improved castability,durability and a super supple surface.• Polysiloxane sealing for maximumabrasion resistance and protection fromdirt, salt and UV rays.Ockert has been operating in the fishing

tackle industry for more than 60 years andis located in Munich. It has built up a strongreputation throughout central and eastern

BEST NEW FLY LINECLIMAX SFT SUPER FINE TIP

T: +49 89 894 0830E: [email protected]: www.ockert.net

C O N TA C T

Above: Climax SFT SuperFine Tip and Climax miGExtreme Braid.Above right: The trium-phant Ockert team atEFTTEX, Gabriela Platz,Managing Director JanWillenbruch, ClaudiaBurghart and ExportManager ChristianRademann.Below: Sportex BlackPearl rods, which willbe introduced into thepredator market in 2012.

Europe, Scandinavia, South America andthe Middle East. There are two strands to itsbusiness – its own brand Sportex rods andClimax fishing lines and its OEM operationwhich provides products for well knownbrands across the globe.

For 2012 Ockert is targeting the growingpredator market with two rod launches toadd to its Sportex range.

The Sportex Instinct series has been tailor-made for gifted anglers. It features the higheststandard carbon material and the Sportex-renowned perfect finish.

The series features 16 individual rods from7ft (210cm) to 10ft (305cm) and test curvesfrom 1/2oz (15kg) to 5oz (150kg).

Sportex has also developed the brandfurther with the new Black Pearl rods, basedon its legendary Black Stream series but withimprovements in the action and speed. It isalso lighter than its predecessor.

The blank has been rebuilt and features anergonomically-designed handle for increasedbait control and non-slip traction when casting.

“It’s not only the Sportex-quality and dis-tinctive appearance that makes it stand out,but its aggressive character and impressivefunctionality,” says Rademann

The Black Pearl range feature 12 rodsfrom 7ft (210cm) to 10.5ft (310cm) and testcurves from 2/3oz (20kg) to 2 2/3oz (80kg).

ese first five metres, the Climax Su Europe Scandinavia, South America and

B

EST NEW

FLY LINE

WINNER


EEFTTAFTTATRADING WITH

The voice of the European Tackle Trade

It has been four months since EFTTEX in Amsterdam,where there was a return to charging an entrance feefor visitors. Is EFTTA convinced it made the right deci-sion to bring back the fee?Jean-Claude Bel: Absolutely. The point is, until a cou-ple of years ago EFTTEX had never been a free show.It was thought that if we made it free to visitors whoregistered online we would see a sensible increase inattendance. But that was not the case. The attend-ance figures barely changed. So by reintroducing thefee, you could say we have simply abandoned anexperiment that did not work. And let nobody forget,EFTTEX remains free to employees of EFTTA membercompanies. If free entry is important to you, join EFTTA!Some exhibitors disagreed with the decision, claimingit would keep buyers away. Do you believe the feediscouraged any potential visitors from attending?You could probably count on one hand the exhibi-

EFTTA CEO Jean-ClaudeBel: ‘The EFTTEX entrancefee is here to stay’

tors who believe it seriously damaged the attendance.What we are talking about here is the price of a beerand a sandwich for a retailer and the price of a steakand a beer for a wholesaler. I really don’t accept thatthe fee is so prohibitive that it stops any serious visitorfrom attending. Plus we have the evidence from thevisitors’ survey. There were very, very few negativeremarks about the fee.The fee for visiting manufacturers was highest of all.Why was that?This is a show financed by exhibiting manufacturers.It is only right that any manufacturer not prepared totake a stand should be asked to contribute by payinga fair entrance fee. After all, let’s be honest, we knowthey are coming to sell in the aisles. This is a show forexhibitors selling to buyers not a free visitor-to-visitormarket place.Will the fee remain for EFTTEX in Paris in 2012?Yes, we will keep the fee for Paris and almost certainlyat the same level, although I am thinking of a lowertier for European manufacturers. We are a Europeanshow and we need to reflect that in how we prioritisebusinesses.Are you surprised that exhibitors still judge thesuccess of a show on the number rather than thequality of its visitors?

It’s always the same story, the attendance! Andpeople are always saying the bottle is half-empty. Thefocus needs to be on the quality of the visitors, that’swhat matters. And there really are only a limitednumber of people you can meet with in one day ifyou want to conduct proper business.To be a success, EFTTEX must attract the rightquality of visitors every year. Are you happy thatit is doing that?Yes I am. The show questionnaire returned by exhibi-tors shows that over 80% of them are very satisfied orsatisfied with the quality of the business atmosphere.A great deal of them have already booked for Paris.But you also need to remember that the responsibil-ity for the quality of your business meetings does notrest with the show organiser. If your own productsand strategy are right, it will be a good show, have nodoubt about that.

“I really don’t accept the argument that the fee is soprohibitive that it stops any serious visitor from attending.”

The reintroduced EFTTEX entrance fee did not deterserious buyers, says EFTTA’s CEO. “You can count onone hand the number of exhibitors who thought theattendance was damaged,” he says.

>


EFTTAT R A D I N G W I T H

T H E V O I C E O F T H E E U R O P E A N T A C K L E T R A D E

The terminal tackle sector will haveits own brand new category at theEFTTEX Best New Product Awardsnext year in Paris, EFTTA hasconfirmed. Following the successof the new Clothing category, EFTTAhas announced that terminal tacklewill likewise be separated from theAccessories category in 2012.

The decision is in direct responseto requests from members in thehall, says EFTTA Membership &Communications Officer Vicki Sey-mour. “EFTTA has listened to whatexhibitors have had to say. Aftersplitting clothing from the acces-sories category, it was agreed thatterminal tackle should also have itsown category.”

She added: “We are expecting

a huge amount of competition. Inprevious years, some companies inthe sector might have been put offfrom entering into the larger acces-sories category. But with a separatecategory and a much better chanceof being recognised, we are expect-ing a huge level of interest.

“That is what makes EFTTEX sucha successful show. EFTTA activelyencourages companies from allover the world to attend and showtheir products. The Best New Prod-uct Awards should reflect that andaccommodate as many companiesas possible, big and small.”

EFTTEX adds terminal tackle awardSo do you think exhibitors need reminding aboutwhat to expect from a show like EFTTEX? In otherwords, can they be made to understand that thetotal number of visitors is not the best way to judgethe show?Well, most do not judge the show in this way. It’smostly people with negative agendas that seek tohighlight the figures in this way – or people outsidethe hall who did not experience the businessatmosphere first-hand. Our exhibitors realise thesenumbers need to be seen within the context of thewhole show. They understand that we are here todeliver a market place in which they can developtheir businesses – and the overall atmosphere is key.EFTTEX is a trade show not a consumer show andit’s about the quality not the quantity of visitors.So why does EFTTA publish the attendance figures?We believe it is our duty to publish the numbers, butwe do so in the knowledge that they do not reflectthe volume of business done over the three days.And nor do they truly reflect the real three-day at-tendance. At least 60% of visitors attend the show forat least two days. Should we double count? In someshows the badges are scanned and you are countedas a visitor every time you leave and re-enter the hall,even if it’s on the same day. We don’t do that.And nor can the figures account for the amount ofbusiness done between the exhibitors themselves.Should EFTTA do more to publicise this importantshow dynamic?There is no need, as serious and experiencedexhibitors know this to be the case. EFTTEXexhibitors have always been a mix of manufacturersand wholesalers and much business is done betweenthem. I always recommend saving the last day forthese meetings as it normally has fewer visitorsthrough the door.Do you think exhibitors have a greater role to playbefore EFTTEX to ensure the right visitors attend theshow, particularly their own stands?Absolutely. Any exhibitor’s success comes from theirown efforts in preparing their stands and communi-cating to their customers prior to the show. It’s thesurest way of getting a return on every euro spent.It is not enough to sit down on a stand waiting forpeople to turn up. But I see too many stands like thatunfortunately. Really, it’s just common sense.

EFTTEX AWARD-WINNER IMPROVESPRODUCT PROMOTION WITH NEW SITEEFTTEX Award winner and top American fly fishingbrand Sage Manufacturing has relaunched itswebsite to improve the way it presents its productsand to provide an interactive format to engageanglers from around the globe.

It includes a section called The Current that hostsa Sage blog, sponsored videos, trailers, Sage videosand stories about destination fishing from aroundthe world.

“Telling our story through our new site allowsvisitors to become more in tune with Sage,” said thecompany’s Marketing Manager, Eric Gewiss. “Usershave the opportunity to read stories, learn techniquesand connect with the Sage family while hearing fromthe broader fly fishing community.”

Log onto www.sageflyfish.com to view the site.

The company won the Best New Fly Rod section inthe awards with its Sage ONE.

Above: Sage Director of Sales Marc Bale with thecompany’s EFTTEX award in Amsterdam.

>


EFTTAT R A D I N G W I T H

T H E V O I C E O F T H E E U R O P E A N T A C K L E T R A D E

[email protected]

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

Companies that wantyour business

P-line extends reach into France, Germany & Austria

Meetings atEFTTEX2011 havesecured twoimportant

distribution agreements forP-Line Europe. The Italiancompany, which makes acomprehensive range of fish-ing lines and accessories, hassealed deals that will see itextend its reach into France,

Germany, Switzerland and Austria.Poitiers-based Autain Pêche S.a.s will be distribut-

ing P-Line products in France following negotiationsin Amsterdam, while Pro Tack, a German manufac-turer and wholesaler, will look after P-Line sales in itshomeland, Switzerland and Austria.

P-Line Export Manager Stefania Pucci said: “Dur-ing meetings with Andreas Thurnau of Pro Tack andDidier Champalou of Autain, we laid the founda-tions for two very important co-operations.

“P-Line has been looking to extend its reach tothese important markets for a long time and we aredelighted to have finally achieved our goals.”

Established in 1954, Autain Pêche manufacturesits own fishing tackle and is also a distributor ofmany global brands.

Pro Tack is based 30km south of Hanover andis currently a dealer for a number of fishing tacklemanufacturers.

The latest deals follow hot on the heels of anagreement P-Line Europe reached with fellowEFTTA member, Kelman SL, to sell its products inSpain.

Pucci added that P-Line was hoping to announcea distribution deal in the UK in the near future. Shesaid: “Hopefully there will be important news aboutthe UK soon.

“Unfortunately, P-Line has been missing in themarketplace for some time, but we know there is agreat demand for the our products there.”

Stefania Pucci: Twoimportant co-operationsfor P-Line Europe.

Download - Angling International - November 2011 - Issue 46

Top Related